Getty Images | KENZO TRIBOUILLARD

Naomi Osaka Was 2 Matches From Winning Tennis Tournament Then Dropped Out To Protest Police Violence

Updated August 16, 2021

It takes a lot of courage and bravery to stand up for what you believe in when it comes at great personal cost to your own life, professional or otherwise. Tennis star Naomi Osaka has shown that bravery in a new tweet.

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On August 23rd, Jacob Blake was shot by police officers while he attempted to get into a vehicle.

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While much is still unknown about the events that took place, the police officers involved have since been placed under administrative leave as an investigation by local and state authorities unfolds. Federal agents are also reviewing the incident and deciding whether a civil rights investigation is appropriate.

This incident has sparked more Black Lives Matter protests around the world, including an NBA and WNBA strike.

Naomi Osaka, who was only two matches away from winning the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, Ohio, also decided to drop out of the tournament in protest of these events.

Instagram | @naomiosaka

"Before I am an athlete, I am a Black woman," Naomi shared of her decision in a statement on Twitter. "And as a Black woman I feel as though there are much more important matters at hand that need immediate attention, rather than watching me play tennis."

Naomi continued, stating that she hoped to start a conversation with her action.

Instagram | @naomiosaka

"I don't expect anything drastic to happen with me not playing, but if I can get a conversation started in a majority white sport I consider that a step in the right direction," Naomi continued in her statement.