Naomi Osaka opts out of Wimbledon 2021

Naomi Osaka has opted out of Wimbledon 2021 in order to take an extended break from competitive tennis for personal reasons.

Osaka withdrew from the recent French Open amid the row surrounding her decision not to participate in media duties.

The 23-year-old was fined $15,000 for refusing to attend press conferences at Roland Garros and pulled out of the tournament just 24 hours after her First Round win, having been threatened with expulsion by tournament organisers.

The Japanese star, who has been open about her battle with anxiety and depression, will continue to spend time with friends and family.

The world number two, however, is planning to return at the Tokyo Olympics – which begin on July 23 – to represent the host nation.

Osaka becomes the second high-profile name to withdraw from Wimbledon 2021 after Rafael Nadal announced he will skip the grass court show-piece to “recuperate” after the clay-court season.

Unlike Osaka, Nadal has also opted out of the Olympic Games, having been a gold medalist in the singles at both Beijing 2008 and the doubles at Rio 2016.

Nadal cited the shorter turnaround between the French Open and Wimbledon this year as a key factor in his decision.