Osaka Triumphs in Emotional US Open Return

Naomi Osaka made a heartfelt return to the US Open, defeating Jelena Ostapenko 6-3, 6-2 in the first round. The match, lasting just 63 minutes, marked Osaka's first win against a top-10 player in four years.

Osaka, a two-time US Open champion, missed the 2023 tournament due to maternity leave after the birth of her daughter, Shai. She watched from the stands last year, which renewed her desire to compete. Osaka's return to competitive tennis has been challenging, with her performance affected since her maternity break.

Before the US Open, she mentioned feeling disconnected from her body since returning from maternity leave. Despite notable performances, including a close match against Iga Swiatek at the French Open, she has yet to advance beyond the quarter-finals in any event this year.

Osaka will face former French Open finalist Karolina Muchova in the second round. Reflecting on her tournament goals, Osaka emphasized focusing on her performance and enjoying the experience, sharing a personal moment about her daughter's bedtime.

Osaka's victory in this match reaffirms her resilience and passion for the sport, despite the challenges she has faced in her return to tennis.