Tennis Star Says: “Having to Stop Here Breaks My Heart”

January 24, 2026: Naomi Osaka has made the difficult decision to withdraw from the Australian Open due to injury, sharing an emotional message that left fans heartbroken alongside her. The four-time Grand Slam champion admitted that stepping away from the tournament was not something she wanted — but something her body ultimately demanded.

“Having to stop here breaks my heart,” Osaka shared, reflecting on the disappointment of leaving Melbourne earlier than planned.

A Painful Decision

Osaka explained that the injury made it impossible for her to continue competing at the level required for a Grand Slam tournament. While she did not go into extensive detail, she emphasized that the decision was made with long-term health in mind.

For an athlete who has worked tirelessly to return to peak form, the moment was especially difficult.

An Emotional Connection to Melbourne

The Australian Open holds a special place in Osaka’s career. She has previously spoken about her strong connection to the tournament, the fans, and the city — making the withdrawal even more emotional.

Walking away wasn’t just about missing matches; it was about leaving behind a stage where she has experienced some of her greatest triumphs.

Health Comes First

Despite the heartbreak, Osaka made it clear that prioritizing recovery was the right choice. She has been open in recent years about listening to her body and protecting both her physical and mental well-being — even when that means stepping away from the spotlight.

Fans and fellow athletes praised her decision, applauding her honesty and self-awareness.

Support Pours In

Following her announcement, messages of encouragement flooded in from across the tennis world. Many expressed admiration for Osaka’s strength and resilience, reminding her that her health matters more than any single tournament.

The outpouring of support reflected the deep respect she has earned beyond her titles.

What’s Next for Naomi Osaka

While her Australian Open journey has come to an early end, Osaka remains focused on recovery and returning stronger. She reassured fans that this is not a goodbye — just a pause.

As always, her comeback will be eagerly awaited.

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