Barbora Krejcikova, the current champion and four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka, have withdrawn from the Dubai Tennis Championships.
After returning to the circuit last month after a maternity vacation, Osaka is still figuring things out on tour.
The Japanese woman lost to Karolina Pliskova in the quarterfinals of the Qatar Open on Thursday after tumbling in the first rounds of the Australian Open and Abu Dhabi.
“I’m really sorry that I have to withdraw from the Dubai Tennis Championships this season,” Osaka, whose last appearance in the event was five years ago, said in a statement, opens new tab on the tournament’s website.
Former French Open Krejcikova champion, who won her maiden Dubai title last year after defeating world number one Iga Swiatek in straight sets, withdrew due to a back injury.
“This decision wasn’t easy, especially given my fond memories and anticipation to compete again. However, my back injury requires further healing time. But I am committed to returning stronger next year,” the Czech 28-year-old said.
