Tennis star Naomi Osaka has announced her withdrawal from the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand, scheduled for January 2026. The four-time Grand Slam champion, who had previously committed to the event in September, has decided to represent Japan in the United Cup instead. Osaka informed Auckland tournament director Nicolas Lamperin of her change in plans, opting to begin her preparations for the Australian Open in Australia. Osaka, a former world No. 1, will team up with Shintaro Mochizuki for Japan in the United Cup, which runs from January 2 to 11 in Perth. Japan is set to face Britain and Greece in the group stage. The Australian Open, the year’s first Grand Slam tournament, will commence on January 18 at Melbourne Park. Osaka’s decision marks a strategic shift in her early-season schedule as she aims to balance national representation and Grand Slam preparation.
Naomi Osaka withdraws from the Auckland WTA event to play for Japan at the United Cup
