Naomi Osaka’s bid for a first WTA title in four years ended in heartbreak as the former world No. 1 retired with an apparent abdominal injury after winning the first set in the Auckland Classic final against Denmark’s Clara Tauson on Sunday, MySportDab Reports.
The match took an unfortunate turn after Osaka claimed the opening set 6-4 with her trademark powerful baseline play. The Japanese star secured a double break early on and, despite dropping serve late in the set, looked in control.
However, as the second set was about to begin, Osaka was visibly in discomfort, seeking medical attention before ultimately withdrawing in tears.
Tauson, 22, secured her third WTA title in unusual fashion and admitted it was a bittersweet victory.
“I have to say I’m really sorry about this final,” Tauson said. “Naomi was playing great tennis. I feel sad about what happened today. Of course, when I process this, I’ll be happy about my week, but not really.”
Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, returned to the WTA Tour last year after a maternity break but has struggled for consistency. Her performance in Auckland, however, showcased flashes of her dominant best, raising hopes for a strong run at the Australian Open.
At the trophy presentation, Osaka kept things lighthearted, joking that skipping breakfast may have led to her early retirement.
“I just want to thank everyone for welcoming me to such a beautiful city,” she said. “I had a lot of fun playing here. I’m sorry about how it ended, but I hope you enjoyed the tennis that we did play.”
Her withdrawal raises concerns about her fitness ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year, but Osaka remains optimistic as she continues her comeback.
