Naomi Osaka
Top WTA stars withdraw from 2026 Qatar Open amid injury concerns
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Several prominent players, including Naomi Osaka and Jessica Pegula, have withdrawn from the upcoming 2026 Qatar TotalEnergies Open due to injuries and recovery needs following the Australian Open. The tournament, the first WTA 1000 event of the year, begins on February 8 in Doha. Despite the absences, stars like Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek remain in the draw.
Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has withdrawn from the 2026 Australian Open ahead of her third-round match, citing a recurring left abdominal injury exacerbated by post-pregnancy changes. Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis advances to the fourth round via walkover to face Iga Swiatek. The withdrawal follows Osaka's three-set victory over Sorana Cirstea and comes amid controversy over her on-court behavior.
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Naomi Osaka advanced to the third round of the Australian Open with a 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 victory over Sorana Cirstea, but the match ended in controversy over Osaka's vocal celebrations. Cirstea complained to the umpire about Osaka's shouts, leading to a frosty post-match exchange. Osaka later expressed regret and apologized for her on-court words.