World number one Osaka withdraws from Qatar Open

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World number one Naomi Osaka has pulled out of next week’s Qatar Open with a back injury.

It was scheduled to be the Japanese’s first tournament since triumphing in the Australian Open in January to win back-to-back Grand Slam titles.

“I am sorry to have to withdraw from Doha this year as I was looking forward to playing and seeing my fans there,” the 21-year-old said in a statement.

“I wish everyone a great week and hope to see everyone next year.”

Osaka has previously suffered with a back injury, missing October’s Hong Kong Open with the problem.