Osaka withdraws from pre-Wimbledon event in Berlin

Tennis
By Reuters | Jun 08, 2021
May 30, 2021 Picture taken May 30, 2021 Japan's Naomi Osaka reacts during her first round match against Romania's Patricia Maria Tig [REUTERS]

Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week's Berlin WTA 5000 grasscourt tournament on Monday, raising doubts about the four-times Grand Slam champion's participation at Wimbledon later this month.

The decision comes after Japanese world number two Osaka pulled out of the French Open last week on mental health grounds.

"We have received notification Naomi Osaka cannot start in Berlin. After consulting her management, she will take a break," Berlin event organisers said in a statement ahead of the tournament which begins on June 14.

Osaka has not revealed when she plans to play next, casting doubt on her participation at Wimbledon, which starts on June 28, and the Tokyo Olympics next month.

The 23-year-old released a short social media statement on Saturday to thank her fans for their support over her decision to withdraw from the French Open following a dispute over her refusal to attend press conferences.

 

Share this story
Morocco 'focused on World Cup' amid AFCON final controversy
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi insists his side was fully focused on the World Cup after a 2-1 friendly win over Paraguay, despite the ongoing controversy of the AFCON final.
Tottenham appoint De Zerbi in battle for Premier League survival
Tottenham appointed Roberto De Zerbi as the club's third manager of the season as they battle to avoid relegation from English football's top-flight for the first time in nearly 50 years.
Tiger Woods 'stepping away' to focus on health after DUI arrest
Tiger Woods says he is "stepping away" to seek treatment and focus on his health after his arrest last week in Florida for driving under the influence.
Messi on target as Argentina down Zambia in World Cup send-off
Messi scored one and set up another as Argentina thrashed Zambia 5-0 in the South Americans' final game on home soil before launching the defence of their World Cup crown.
DR Congo fans dance in the rain after sealing World Cup spot
Delirious football fans took to the soaked streets of the capital Kinshasa and danced into the night in the rain after the DR Congo reached the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS