Naomi Osaka has pulled out of the Australian Open mere hours before she was set to take on Maddison Inglis in the third round.
The 28-year-old, who has claimed the Melbourne Park title twice previously, confirmed her departure from the tournament through an Instagram post citing a physical problem.
Her match against Inglis had been scheduled as the second fixture during the Rod Laver Arena night session, due to follow Novak Djokovic's encounter with Botic van de Zandschulp.
The announcement came whilst the Serbian star was already leading his Dutch opponent by a set.
TRENDING
Stories
Videos
Your Say
In her statement, Osaka expressed her devastation at being forced to end her campaign prematurely.
"I've had to make the difficult decision to withdraw to address something my body needs attention for after my last match," she wrote.
"I was so excited to keep going and this run meant the most to me, so having to stop here breaks my heart but I can't risk doing any further damage so I can get back on the court."
Naomi Osaka had been due to face Maddison Inglis
|REUTERS
The four-time Grand Slam winner also thanked fans for their warmth, adding: "Thanks for all the love and support I'm so grateful everyone embraced me so much."
She expressed appreciation for her team and tournament organisers for their kindness throughout her time in Melbourne.
Osaka had been battling an abdominal injury throughout the tournament, receiving medical attention during her second round triumph against Sorana Cirstea.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Five facts for tennis fans | GETTY/PAHer withdrawal means Australian hopeful Inglis, currently ranked 168th in the world, advances without having to step on court.
The progression represents a significant opportunity for the home favourite, who now finds herself in the fourth round draw.
Inglis will face world number one Iga Swiatek in the next round, a match-up that would have potentially awaited Osaka had she been able to continue competing.
The Polish star now faces a considerably different challenge than originally anticipated.
Naomi Osaka and Sorana Cirstea had a frosty handshake at the Australian Open earlier this week
| REUTERSDespite her brief tournament run, the four-time major champion certainly left an impression during her time in Melbourne.
Her opening match against Antonia Ruzic drew considerable attention when she appeared on court wearing a striking ensemble featuring a veil, flared trousers, a wide-brimmed hat and an umbrella.
Her second round victory over Cirstea was not without drama either, as the two players exchanged tense words following a frosty handshake at the net.
The 35-year-old Romanian had taken exception to Osaka calling out encouragement to herself between first and second serves during the contest.