Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka and defending champion Barbora Krejcikova have withdrawn from the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Osaka is on the journey of reestablishing herself on tour after making a comeback to the circuit last month following a maternity break.
The Japanese player lost in the first round of the Australian Open and in Abu Dhabi, and suffered defeat at the hands of Karolina Pliskova in the Qatar Open quarter-finals on Thursday.
"I'm really sorry that I have to withdraw from the Dubai Tennis Championships this season," Osaka, who last appeared in the tournament five years ago, said in a statement on the tournament's website.
Former French Open Krejcikova champion, who clinched her maiden Dubai title last year after beating world number one Iga Swiatek in straight sets, pulled out due to a back injury.
"This decision wasn't easy, especially given my fond memories and anticipation to compete again. However, my back injury requires further healing time. But I am committed to returning stronger next year," the Czech 28-year-old said.
Meanwhile, teenage prodigy Celine Simunyu will make history at the event on Friday by becoming the first Irish female player to be awarded a wildcard for the qualifying rounds of the WTA event.
The 19-year-old, the No.1 ranked Irish women’s tennis player, has been representing her country in the Billie Jean Cup since 2021.Currently ranked 633 in the WTA rankings, Simunyu will face No. 61 Cristina Bucsa on Court 7 this afternoon in the first qualifying round at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Free Stadium.