Audio By Carbonatix
Naomi Osaka said it "feels like a dream" as she made a winning return on her first appearance at Wimbledon for five years.
The four-time Grand Slam champion came through 6-1 1-6 6-4 against Diane Parry in the first round on court two.
Japan's Osaka returned to the tour in 2024 after the birth of her first child, daughter Shai, a year ago.
The 26-year-old, who is now ranked 113rd in the world, was injured in 2022 and also missed the 2021 tournament while taking time off to deal with mental health issues.
"I'm really excited to be here and it's funny, Wimbledon was the first tournament I watched after pregnancy and my daughter's turning one tomorrow so, I'm really glad to still be here," said Osaka.
Competing as a wildcard, Osaka raced through the opening set in just 22 minutes, firing a series of winners past French 21-year-old Parry.
Her level dropped in the second set, though, as Parry quickly levelled and the world number 53 twice went a break up in the deciding set.
But Osaka, who has never been beyond the third round at SW19, fought back and three double faults in the final game from Parry led to her downfall.
Osaka will play American 19th seed Emma Navarro in the second round.
Latest Stories
-
Roots and Routes uses health walks, air sensors and tree planting to tackle air pollution in Ghana
31 seconds -
Stanbic Bank moves to boost electric vehicle through ‘Be Powered’ campaign
6 minutes -
Tears in Damongo court as accused persons show alleged torture wounds while in police custody
7 minutes -
Telecel Business Runaway in Takoradi equips SMEs with practical tools for growth
12 minutes -
Education Ministry to meet teacher unions on Monday as strike begins over promotion arrears
17 minutes -
Gender Minister calls for stronger financing, accountability to improve lives of Africa’s children
21 minutes -
Shoot to maim illegal miners if ‘shoot to kill’ is opposed – Kwame Jantuah
22 minutes -
24-hour Economy Secretariat to support 2026 Inter Tourism Expo
23 minutes -
Ghana must produce more of what it imports to create jobs – Mahama
28 minutes -
New cocoa producer price looms as COCOBOD seeks funding for 2026/27 season
31 minutes -
From paddle and sail to smart ships: What maritime industry means to the world and why Ghana must turn policy into practice
32 minutes -
McDAN warns SMEs against founder-dependent growth, urges stronger systems
34 minutes -
‘Feel free to invest; golden era for Ghana is beginning’ – Ato Forson
35 minutes -
Ghana outlines plans to expand port infrastructure and strengthen maritime sector
47 minutes -
EPA shuts down Ponlok Company over smoke emissions, poor waste management
49 minutes