Auckland, New Zealand – Fans were left heartbroken and disappointed after Naomi Osaka, the former world No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion, retired from the Auckland Classic final against Clara Tauson due to an abdominal injury. The match took a dramatic turn when Osaka, who had won the opening set 6-4, was forced to withdraw after the set break.
Osaka’s abrupt retirement came as a shock to many, especially considering her dominant performance in the early stages of the match. Leading 5-1 against the fifth-seeded Dane, Osaka seemed poised for a comeback victory. However, her injury woes resurfaced, and despite her best efforts, she could no longer continue.
The disappointment was palpable among fans, who had been eagerly anticipating Osaka’s return to form after her maternity leave. Many took to social media to express their sadness, with some describing the situation as “a real shame” and “heartbreaking.”
Osaka herself was visibly distraught, shedding tears as she spoke to the tournament physio and later to her opponent, Clara Tauson. Tauson, who won the title as a result of Osaka’s retirement, also expressed her sadness, calling it “the worst final I’ve ever played emotionally.”
The injury is a significant setback for Osaka, who was preparing for the upcoming Australian Open, an event where she has previously triumphed twice. Fans are now left wondering about her fitness and whether she will be able to compete at her best in Melbourne.
A fan commented: “What a shame feel for her”
Another wrote: “Hope to see her come back healthy real soon.”
Hope to see her come back healthy real soon.
— Gary Lo (@GaryLoh9) January 5, 2025
Naomi Osaka in 2025
Currently the world no.57, the Japanese played her last match on the 5th of January when she had to retire when playing against Clara Tauson in the final and the scoreline was 4-6 .
Presently, during this year the Japanese has managed to achieve a composed 4-1 win-loss record. Naomi Osaka’s latest run in Auckland was the best achievement of her season.
