World No. 2 Naomi Osaka withdraws from Wimbledon

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ANKARA (AA) - Naomi Osaka of Japan, ranked No. 2 in the world in women's tennis, has decided to withdraw from Wimbledon.

"Naomi won't be playing Wimbledon this year. She is taking some personal time with friends and family. She will be ready for the Olympics and is excited to play in front of her home fans," her team said in a statement late Thursday.

The 23-year old player announced her decision two weeks after her withdrawal from the French Open due to mental health issues. The decision came after she was fined $15,000 for not participating in a mandatory post-match press conference.

The 2021 Wimbledon Championships will take place from June 28 to July 11.

Besides Osaka, Rafael Nadal will also not be competing in the tournament, citing a desire to "prolong" his career.