Osaka Withdraws from Australian Open, Propelling Inglis to Fourth Round
Maddison Inglis has advanced to the fourth round of the Australian Open following Naomi Osaka’s withdrawal from the tournament. The four-time Grand Slam champion announced her decision shortly before their scheduled match, citing a physical issue that requires her attention.
Osaka’s Withdrawal Announcement
Naomi Osaka, 28, shared details of her decision through her Instagram. She expressed her disappointment at having to withdraw, stating, “I’ve had to make the difficult decision to withdraw to address something my body needs attention for after my last match.” She acknowledged her excitement for the tournament and gratitude for the support she has received.
Impact on the Tournament
- Inglis is through to the fourth round for the first time in her career.
- She is the only Australian female remaining in the singles draw, alongside Alex de Minaur in men’s singles.
- Inglis will compete against either world No. 2 Iga Swiatek or 31st seed Anna Kalinskaya in the next round.
Inglis’s Journey to the Fourth Round
This marks Inglis’s first appearance in the main draw of a major tournament in four years. She demonstrated remarkable endurance, spending over 13 hours and 24 minutes on the court to reach this stage, spanning 14 sets. With Osaka’s withdrawal, Inglis is spared from additional match time during an already demanding tournament.
Financial Implications
By reaching the fourth round, Inglis is set to receive $480,000. This advancement not only highlights her potential but also boosts her career earnings considerably.
The Australian Open continues to be a significant event, showcasing emerging talent like Inglis while also reflecting on the challenges faced by seasoned players such as Osaka. Fans will be watching closely as the tournament progresses.
