Tokyo: Naomi Osaka has pulled out of the Japan Open before Friday’s quarter-final because of a leg injury sustained during the second round. The former world number one required painkillers to complete a three-set victory over defending champion Suzan Lamens.
Osaka, who competed with heavy strapping on the left thigh, had been scheduled to face Jaqueline Cristian in the last eight. However, Cristian will now advance directly to the semi-finals. Tournament organisers confirmed that Osaka has not recovered from the injury, stating that medical advice prompted the withdrawal.
The Japan Open released a statement expressing regret that Osaka has been unable to continue, citing the injury sustained earlier in the tournament. It remains unclear whether participation in the upcoming Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo later this month will be possible. Fans expressed disappointment but also sent messages of support, wishing for a swift recovery and return to competition.
The four-time Grand Slam winner is the latest prominent player to encounter end-of-season physical setbacks. In September, Iga Swiatek commented that the professional tennis calendar has become “too long and too intense” following several player injuries at the China Open.
British number one Emma Raducanu ended the 2025 season early after withdrawing from two consecutive matches because of illness. Australia’s Daria Kasatkina, Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, and Spain’s Paula Badosa have also concluded their campaigns prematurely due to fitness issues.
Across two tournaments in China last week, five competitors retired mid-match because of injuries, underscoring growing concerns over player fatigue and scheduling intensity. Osaka’s latest setback highlights the broader challenge of maintaining athlete welfare in a demanding global circuit.
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