Naomi Osaka withdraws from 2021 BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells

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.

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.