NEW YORK _ Naomi Osaka will play in the semifinals of the Western & Southern Open after pulling out on Wednesday night to protest racial injustice and the police shooting of Jacob Blake.
In a statement released to the Guardian newspaper of London, Osaka said: "As you know, I pulled out of the tournament yesterday in support of racial injustice and continued police violence. I was (and am) ready and prepared to concede the match to my opponent.
"However, after my announcement and lengthy consultation with the WTA and USTA, I have agreed at their request to play on Friday. They offered to postpone all matches until Friday and in my mind that brings more attention to the movement. I want to thank the WTA and the Tournament for their support."
