Naomi Osaka withdraws from the Auckland WTA event to play for Japan at the United Cup

Naomi Osaka has withdrawn from the ASB Basic in Auckland, New Zealand, in January to as an alternative play for Japan within the United Cup. The four-time main winner had agreed in September to start out her 2026 season in Auckland, the place she reached the ultimate earlier this 12 months.

She contacted Auckland event director Nicolas Lamperin to say she had modified her thoughts and would as an alternative start her preparation for the Australian Open in Australia.

Former No. 1-ranked Osaka will mix with Shintaro Mochizuki within the Japan staff for the January 2-11 United Cup in Perth. Japan is drawn to play Britain and Greece in group play.

The Australian Open, the primary tennis Grand Slam occasion of the 12 months, begins on January 18 at Melbourne Park.