Naomi Osaka’s Australian Open campaign came to an unexpected end on Friday when she was forced to retire from her third-round match against Belinda Bencic due to a nagging abdominal injury. The injury, which had already caused her to withdraw from the ASB Classic earlier in the month, raised questions about whether her pregnancy was the underlying cause.
However, Osaka quickly put those speculations to rest during a press conference, clarifying that the abdominal strain was a long-standing issue she had dealt with since her teenage years. The injury, which is exacerbated by explosive movements like her powerful serve, has been a recurring problem for Osaka throughout her career.
Despite the pain and disappointment of retiring from the match, Osaka remained upbeat about her performance, expressing how much she enjoyed the challenge of playing a close battle despite being injured. Her resilience and determination were evident as she spoke about the injury, which had started bothering her towards the end of 2024.
Osaka’s opponent, Belinda Bencic, showed empathy and understanding for Osaka’s situation, leaving a heartfelt message on the camera: “Get well soon Mama” with a drawn heart. The gesture marked a touching moment in their rivalry, highlighting the mutual respect and understanding that has grown between them as they navigate the challenges of balancing motherhood and professional tennis careers.
The two players have found common ground, despite past tensions, particularly after the 2021 French Open. Osaka spoke about how inspiring it was to see Bencic return to top form after giving birth, further solidifying the bond between them. As Osaka recovers from her injury, the support from Bencic serves as a reminder of the powerful camaraderie that exists among female tennis players.
The journey through motherhood and athletic excellence is a delicate balance, one that both Osaka and Bencic are learning to navigate together. As they support each other, they are also inspiring a new generation of female tennis players to pursue their dreams, both on and off the court.