Naomi Osaka Triumphs at Wimbledon After Six-Year Hiatus

Naomi Osaka, who missed Wimbledon for six years and hadn't played there in five, made a victorious return by winning against Diane Parry in the first round. Last year, Osaka was off the tour due to her pregnancy. Now, she's back in action at the All England Club.

Naomi Osaka triumphantly returned to Wimbledon after a six-year absence and a five-year hiatus from its grass courts, securing a 6-1, 1-6, 6-4 victory over Diane Parry in the first round. The match was a significant milestone for Osaka, who had been off the tour last year due to her pregnancy with daughter Shai, who turns 1 on Tuesday.

Reflecting on her journey, Osaka recalled watching Wimbledon from her hospital bed shortly after giving birth. "I'm just really excited to be here," she said, adding that Wimbledon was the first tournament she watched post-pregnancy. In a tournament with heavy focus on the health of high-profile players like Aryna Sabalenka and Victoria Azarenka, Osaka's return marked a moment of personal and professional triumph.

While Osaka is a two-time U.S. Open and Australian Open champion, she has never advanced past the third round at Wimbledon or the French Open. Now ranked No. 113 after a 15-month break, Osaka aims to regain her top form. Her victory at Wimbledon signifies a promising start, as she continues to balance professional aspirations with her new role as a mother.

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