Osaka Withdraws from 2026 Australian Open; Inglis Advances to Last 16

Naomi Osaka, a renowned four-time Grand Slam champion and two-time Australian Open winner, has announced her withdrawal from the 2026 Australian Open due to a left abdominal injury. The news was confirmed by Tennis Australia. Osaka’s decision comes after she experienced pain during her recent matches.

Osaka’s Injury and Withdrawal

Osaka took to social media to share her struggles with the injury, stating, “It’s an injury I’ve had a couple of times before, and I thought I could push through it.” Despite her efforts to manage the pain prior to her match, her situation worsened during warm-ups.

Impact on the Australian Open

As a result of her withdrawal, Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis advances to the Round of 16. She will now face Iga Swiatek in a highly anticipated match. This advancement comes via walkover, reflecting the impact of Osaka’s challenging circumstances.

Recent Matches and Performance

• In her last match, Osaka defeated Sorana Cirstea in a tightly contested three-set match: 6-3, 4-6, 6-2.
• She briefly left the court due to the abdominal issue during the third set but managed to continue with a medical timeout.
• Osaka previously retired from her third-round match at the 2025 Australian Open against Belinda Bencic, also due to abdominal pain.
• She had faced a similar situation at the 2025 ASB Classic in Auckland, where she retired during the final against Clara Tauson.

Fashion Statement at the Tournament

Osaka also attracted attention for her grand entrance at the Australian Open, where she showcased a striking outfit complete with a veil and a parasol. She expressed her enjoyment of both the fashion and the competition in Melbourne.

Inglis’ Journey in the Tournament

Maddison Inglis will face Iga Swiatek for the second time in her career, having previously lost to her in 2021 at the Adelaide International. Throughout her campaign, Inglis has had a competitive run, with four out of five matches going to three sets, including saving two match points in her first qualifier.

As Osaka focuses on her rehabilitation, her withdrawal marks a significant moment in the tournament, showcasing the unpredictability of sports and the challenges athletes face with injuries.