2021 French Open: Naomi Osaka withdrew from the competition after being fined for negligence in media obligations

Naomi Osaka will not play this year French Open.

After winning her fourth Grand Slam title at this year’s Australian OpenOn Monday, Osaka announced its withdrawal from the second Grand Slam tournament of the season. In a statement shared on social media, Osaka explained that she would not participate in clay courts to protect her mental health.

Osaka said in a statement: “I think the best thing for the game, other players and my happiness right now is that I quit so that everyone can refocus on the tennis match that is going on in Paris.”

“I never wanted to be distracted. I admit that my timing is not ideal. My message could have been clearer. More importantly, I would never underestimate mental health or use the term lightly. The truth is that I have suffered from depression for a long time. Since the 2018 U.S. Open, it has been difficult for me to deal with it.”

Before the French Open, Osaka announced that she would not participate in the post-match press conference. After winning the first round match against Patricia Maria Teague on Sunday, Osaka kept its promise and was fined for her actions.

The world’s No. 2 women’s singles player Osaka was fined $15,000 for not participating in a mandatory post-match press conference and was warned that if she continues not to talk to the media, she may face more severe penalties. She risked a breach of contract at the French Open, and the organizers of the French Open said that there may be “more fines and suspension of future Grand Slam events.”

Osaka has not reached the third round of the French Open in the three games of her career. Last year, she was forced to withdraw because of a hamstring injury. In 2019, Osaka lost to Karolina Pliskova, and in 2018, she lost to Madison Keys. Both games were directly lost.