Naomi Osaka withdraws from 2021 BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells
WTAThursday, 23 September 2021 at 00:31
Naomi Osaka has become the biggest name to withdraw so far from the 2021 BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells which is set to return to the calendar this year.
One of the first tournaments to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Osaka was one of the last champions back in 2018 but won't regain the WTA 1000 title after withdrawing.
She has in essence as a result stayed true to her 'break' from the sport following her US Open disappointment which saw her lose to Leylah Fernandez, eventual runner-up.
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With the WTA calendar not having many large tournaments remaining this year, likely the final chance to see Osaka in 2021 will be the WTA Finals if she qualifies with the now World Number Seven in one of the final spots.
If not, all routes will lead to the Australian Open for her tennis return after playing not many tournaments outside of the main Grand Slams this year.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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