In Melbourne, Australia, two-time Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka announced her withdrawal from the tournament on January 24, 2026, just hours before her scheduled third-round match against Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis. The decision followed an abdominal injury that Osaka mentioned needing to address after her previous match. She stated that this run meant a lot to her, and it broke her heart to withdraw. Osaka has a history of abdominal issues and had experienced pain during her last match. She anticipated that resting before her next match might help, but the injury worsened during warm-ups. Osaka expressed her disappointment, emphasizing her desire to continue competing and the importance of being healthy to return to the court. The 28-year-old Osaka, currently ranked No. 17, was seen as a strong contender for a successful run at the Australian Open, especially after her semi-final appearance at the US Open in 2025. Previously, she had won the Australian Open in 2019 and 2021, and her withdrawal has ended her pursuit of a third title at this Grand Slam event. Fans and fellow players have expressed support for her decision, hoping for her swift recovery and return to competition. Her initial entry into the tournament captured attention with her unique fashion choices, including a jellyfish-inspired outfit, alongside a notable encounter in the second round with opponent Sorana Cirstea regarding on-court behavior. The sports community has recognized Osaka's remarkable talent and contributions to the sport, and her absence from the tournament has created a significant gap in the event's competition landscape.