Naomi Osaka Retires with Abdominal Injury After Winning First Set in Auckland Final, Clara Tauson Claims Title

Jan 5, 2025, 06:35 AM

Naomi Osaka's quest for her first title since 2021 ended prematurely when she retired from the ASB Classic final in Auckland due to an abdominal injury. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, had won the first set 6-4 against Denmark's Clara Tauson before withdrawing before the start of the second set. This injury raises concerns about her participation in the upcoming Australian Open, set to begin on January 12. Osaka had been showing strong form in Auckland, marking her first final since April 2022. Tauson, ranked No. 50, secured her third career WTA title as a result of Osaka's retirement.