Naomi Osaka Retires Against Belinda Bencic at the Australian Open

Two-time Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka was forced to retire from her third-round clash against Belinda Bencic due to an abdominal injury. The former World No. 1 lost the first set in a tiebreak, 6-7(3), before pulling out of the match, marking a disappointing end to her campaign at Melbourne Park.

Osaka, who was playing in the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time since returning from maternity leave, started strong and raced to a 4-1 lead in the opening set. However, as the set progressed, she appeared to struggle with discomfort, calling for the physio at 6-5. Despite her best efforts, she could not overcome the pain, allowing Bencic to take control in the tiebreak. The 27-year-old ultimately decided to retire before the start of the second set.

Abdominal Injury Returns to Haunt Osaka

The abdominal injury that forced Osaka to withdraw from the Auckland final less than two weeks ago struck again in Melbourne, cutting short her promising Australian Open run. Late in the first set, the four-time Grand Slam champion displayed clear discomfort, particularly on her serve, which became increasingly restricted. After battling through pain to hold for 6-5, she received treatment from medical staff but continued to struggle.

Bencic took advantage of Osaka’s limitations, staying composed and aggressive to edge the tiebreak 7-6 (3). As Osaka’s condition worsened, she decided to retire, disappointing fans eager to see her complete her comeback tournament at a major.

Bencic Advances as Osaka’s Future Becomes Uncertain

This marked Osaka’s first third-round appearance at a Grand Slam since 2022, a significant milestone in her return to competitive tennis. However, her injury raises concerns about her fitness moving forward. Bencic, on the other hand, progressed to the fourth round dramatically, seizing the opportunity after the Japanese’s withdrawal.

However, it is a massive opportunity for Belinda Bencic at the Australian Open. Like Osaka lasts year, the Swiss star was also coming into this Australian Open on the back of a maternity leave. If she is able to gain a deep entry into Melbourne Park, she will feel that she never left the WTA circuit. The former World No.4 delivered a classy response by writing ‘Get Well Soon, Mama’ on the cameras in support of her retiring colleague.

Naomi Osaka’s sudden retirement leaves questions about her ability to stay injury-free for the rest of the season. With major tournaments ahead, including the French Open and Wimbledon, her fitness will be closely monitored.

Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports