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Why Did Naomi Osaka Withdrew From Wimbledon Championships 2021?
Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has taken a couple of big decisions this month. After pulling out from the French Open midway, the Japanese professional recently announced her withdrawal from Wimbledon.
In her statement for Roland-Garros pullout, the 23-year-old had expressed her struggle with mental health. She also said she needed to take some time off before she is ready to compete again.
Following that, many believed that Osaka would return for the grass major, Wimbledon Championships 2021. Moreover, the oldest tennis tournament itself had been confident about her participation. So why did she withdraw from the most-anticipated tennis event of the year?
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Naomi Osaka plans to return at Tokyo Olympics 2021
Naturally, the recent events must not have been soft on the Japanese ace. However, Osaka also received enormous support from the entire sports community and the outside.
Above all, what she needed the most was to regroup herself in the company of family and friends. And since she is still not at her best, Osaka did not rush her return and withdrew from Wimbledon.
Naomi Osaka has pulled out of Wimbledon.
— Michal Samulski (@MichalSamulski) June 17, 2021
But apparently, there is a silver lining for tennis fans waiting for the reigning Australian Open champion. The good news is that Osaka is excited to represent Japan in the upcoming Tokyo Olympics 2021.
Inarguably, it is the world’s biggest sporting event, and hence her participation is a positive step ahead. Moreover, she is looking forward to playing in front of her home crowd.
“Naomi won’t be playing Wimbledon this year. She is taking some personal time with friends and family. She will be ready for the Olympics and is excited to play in front of her home fans.”
— Jon Wertheim (@jon_wertheim) June 17, 2021
The decision has indeed raised the excitement level for tennis fans for the Olympics. Yet her absence in Wimbledon will not be easy to replace.
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What lies ahead for Osaka?
No doubt, the Olympics will play a crucial role for Osaka. A gold medal for her country will indeed restore her optimism.
Following that, WTA World No.2 would be eyeing to defend her US Open title. Even there, she will have the strong support of the second-home crowd in Flushing Meadows, New York.
What’s most interesting is that the US Open 2021 is looking forward to allowing a 100% spectator capacity throughout the tournament. So, with the crowd behind her, Osaka hopefully would return on the women’s tour.
Do you think Osaka can win another Grand Slam this year?
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