Sun Jan 05 08:53:30 UTC 2025: ## Osaka Withdraws from Auckland Final Due to Abdominal Injury
**Auckland, New Zealand** – Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has withdrawn from the Auckland Classic final due to an abdominal injury, casting doubt on her Australian Open prospects. The Japanese star, playing in her first WTA final in three years, won the first set 6-4 against Clara Tauson before retiring.
Osaka appeared to be playing without issue during the opening set, showcasing powerful groundstrokes. However, she called for a medical timeout after the set, and following a consultation with her trainer, withdrew from the match. Tauson, who won her third career title, was awarded the victory.
While Osaka did not detail the nature of her injury on court, a WTA statement confirmed the retirement was due to an abdominal injury. She expressed her disappointment at the outcome but thanked the Auckland crowd for their support.
The withdrawal is a significant setback for Osaka, who was aiming for her first title since the 2021 Australian Open. Her return to competitive tennis after a 15-month break, which included giving birth to her first child, has seen her climb to 57th in the world rankings. She had expressed optimism about a strong showing at the Australian Open, which begins January 12th. The injury raises concerns about her participation in the upcoming Grand Slam tournament.
First Piper 