Naomi Osaka, 23, PULLS OUT of French Open in wake of her media boycott as she says she is ‘taking time away from the court’ and reveals her depression and social anxiety struggles
Naomi Osaka has announced that she will be withdrawing from the French Open because of the furore caused by her boycott of media duties.
The world number two won her opening match against Patricia Maria Tig on Sunday but her decision not to take part in press conferences or interviews has been the biggest talking point of the tournament.
The grand slams reacted strongly to Osaka’s move, releasing a joint statement on Sunday that threatened her with potential disqualification and a ban from future tournaments should she not reconsider.
Osaka, who cited mental health reasons, wrote on Twitter: “Hey everyone, this isn’t a situation I ever imagined or intended when I posted a few days ago.
“I think now the best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the tennis going on in Paris.”
Naomi Osaka has announced that she will be withdrawing from this year’s French Open