Naomi Osaka Officially Out of the 2025 Australian Open Due to Prolonged Injury Recovery
Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has announced her withdrawal from the 2025 Australian Open as her injuries continue to hinder her ability to return to peak performance. This development comes after a challenging 2024 season that saw her attempt a comeback following the birth of her daughter in July 2023. Unfortunately, injuries—including a bulging disc in her back and torn abdominal muscles—forced her to end the season early, leaving her recovery timeline extended into the new year.
Osaka first reported significant discomfort during the China Open in October 2024, where she was forced to retire mid-match against Coco Gauff. Subsequent medical examinations revealed the severity of her injuries, prompting her to withdraw from subsequent tournaments, including the Hong Kong Open and the Billie Jean King Cup. These setbacks capped a tumultuous year for Osaka, who had hoped to rebuild her career post-pregnancy but faced consistent physical challenges.
Struggles with Recovery
In a statement earlier this year, Osaka explained the complications of her injuries: “I thought I strained my back, but the MRI showed a bulging disc and torn abdominal muscles. I’ve done everything I could to heal, but the timeline isn’t what I had hoped for.” The former world No. 1 had initially planned a full recovery in time for the 2025 season, targeting the Australian Open—a tournament she has won twice—as her platform for reestablishing her position among the tennis elite.
However, her team has now confirmed that her injuries have not healed sufficiently for her to compete. According to reports, while her rehabilitation is progressing, the risk of re-aggravation remains too high, especially for the physical demands of a Grand Slam. Osaka’s physiotherapists and coaches have advised against rushing her return to ensure her long-term health and sustainability in the sport .
The 2024 Comeback and Challenges
Osaka’s return to professional tennis in 2024 was marked by a mix of promise and setbacks. Her decision to partner with renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou brought renewed optimism as she worked to regain her pre-hiatus form. She played a total of 39 matches in 2024, recording a modest 22-17 win-loss record and climbing from a ranking of 831 to 56 by the end of the season. While these results showed glimpses of her potential, Osaka struggled with consistency and fitness throughout the year.
Her injury at the China Open was particularly significant, as it came during one of her better performances of the season. After winning three consecutive matches to reach the Round of 16, she was forced to retire, marking a premature end to her campaign. This injury also dashed hopes of her participating in season-ending events like the WTA Finals .
Future Prospects
While Osaka’s withdrawal from the Australian Open is a disappointment for her fans, her team remains optimistic about her eventual return. A spokesperson for Osaka emphasized that her recovery is progressing, albeit slower than anticipated, and that she is committed to returning to competitive play later in the 2025 season. Her participation in the hard-court swing or mid-season tournaments could be a realistic goal depending on her recovery trajectory.
Osaka herself remains determined to continue her career. In interviews, she has expressed her desire to balance motherhood and professional tennis, acknowledging the unique challenges of returning to elite competition after a lengthy hiatus. Her story of resilience continues to inspire, and many in the tennis community are eager to see her back at full strength.
Broader Implications
Osaka’s absence from the 2025 Australian Open highlights the physical toll professional tennis can take, particularly for players attempting a comeback after extended breaks. Her situation mirrors those of other athletes who have struggled to balance recovery, personal life, and competition. As Osaka focuses on her health, her journey underscores the importance of patience and careful management in navigating such challenges.
For now, fans will have to wait to see Osaka back on the court. With her history of success and undeniable talent, she remains a formidable force whenever she does make her return. Until then, her supporters can only hope for her full recovery and a triumphant comeback later in 2025 .