Naomi Osaka looks to copy Emma Raducanu injury plan after tournament decision made

Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka is set to make her return to competitive tennis at the WTA 250 Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open later this month.

The four-time Grand Slam champion will join a star-studded field, including Emma Raducanu, Simona Halep, and defending champion Leylah Fernandez.

Osaka's participation comes as a surprise, following her recent withdrawal from the China Open due to a back injury. The Japanese star had also pulled out of her hometown tournament, the Kinoshita Group Japan Open, and the Wuhan Open.

The Hong Kong event, scheduled from 26 October to 3 November, marks Osaka's first appearance in the city since 2018. Osaka's recent setback occurred during the China Open in Beijing. The world No. 58 retired from her round-of-16 match against Coco Gauff on 1 October, citing a lower back problem. Naomi Osaka suffered an injury setback at the China Open PA

Despite winning the first set, Osaka was forced to withdraw after losing the second. The injury proved more severe than initially thought, prompting her to pull out of subsequent tournaments. In an Instagram story, Osaka revealed, "It was worse than what I thought (I just have a high pain tolerance lol) and I'm trying my best to potentially play Tokyo but I'm still waiting to see what the doctor says." JUST IN: England open talks with Thomas Tuchel over vacant position

The Hong Kong Tennis Open boasts an impressive lineup of players. British No. 1 Katie Boulter will join the competition, alongside rising star Diana Shnaider and world No. 38 Anastasia Potapova. Former world No. 2 Li Na will serve as the tournament director, adding prestige to the event. READ MORE: Max Verstappen speaks out on Red Bull future amid Mercedes interest

The tournament, held at Victoria Park Tennis Stadium, marks Osaka's return to Hong Kong since her 2017 appearance and 2018 fan greeting. Despite withdrawing from the 2018 event due to injury, Osaka's participation this year has generated excitement among local tennis enthusiasts. Emma Raducanu, another star attraction, is also targeting the Hong Kong event for her comeback. Emma Raducanu is planning a grand return at the Hong Kong Open PA

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