Tennis News: Osaka to miss Qatar Open with back injury

World number one Naomi Osaka will miss next week's Qatar Open with a back injury.

The Japanese, who last month won a second successive grand slam by beating Petra Kvitova in the Australian Open final, suffered a similar problem last year that saw her miss the Hong Kong Open.

It would have marked Osaka's first tournament since her triumph in Melbourne, but the 21-year-old will instead take time to recover.

A statement from Osaka, reported on the WTA's official website, read: "I am sorry to have withdraw from Doha this year as I was looking forward to playing and seeing my fans there.

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

There is plenty of star talent on display in Doha, with 2014 champion Simona Halep – who Osaka replaced atop the rankings – joined by 2017 victor Karolina Pliskova, as well as Angelique Kerber and Kiki Bertens.

In Australia, @Naomi_Osaka_ shined on the court and in the press room

Tell us your favorite quote from the World No. 1! #大坂なおみ pic.twitter.com/nYc3HCM2PW

— WTA (@WTA) February 5, 2019