Naomi Osaka has withdrawn from the Japan Open ahead of her scheduled quarter-final match after sustaining a left leg injury during her previous round.
The former world number one struggled through pain in her second-round match against defending champion Suzan Lamens, requiring painkillers and visible thigh strapping to finish the three-set contest.
Osaka was due to face Jaqueline Cristian in the quarter-finals, but the Romanian advances directly to the semi-finals following Osaka’s withdrawal.
Tournament statement confirms injury
In an official statement on social media, organisers said:
“We regret to announce that Naomi Osaka has not recovered from a left leg injury sustained during the second round of this tournament and has withdrawn from the quarter-finals scheduled for today.”
The Japan Open is Osaka’s home tournament, and her absence is a major disappointment for local fans who had been anticipating her deep run after a strong comeback season.
Uncertain for Pan Pacific Open
It remains unclear whether Osaka will recover in time for the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo later this month. The 26-year-old has been easing back into competition after maternity leave, with this setback adding another concern to her 2025 campaign.
Injuries mount late in season
Osaka’s withdrawal adds to a growing list of top players forced out late in the season.
World No.1 Iga Swiatek recently said the tennis calendar is “too long and too intense” after several injuries emerged during the China Open.
Meanwhile, Emma Raducanu ended her season early due to illness, and others including Daria Kasatkina, Elina Svitolina, and Paula Badosa have also opted for rest and recovery.
Across two tournaments in China last week alone, five players retired injured, further underlining concerns over player workload on the tour.
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