Wimbledon 2024: Osaka victorious in see-saw match, advances to second round

Naomi Osaka wins Wimbledon first round match in a thrilling encounter with Diane Parry, showing her resilience and skill.

Naomi Osaka, the former world number one, faced a challenging first-round match against France's Diane Parry at Wimbledon on Monday. Despite a shaky start, Osaka managed to secure a hard-fought victory with a score of 6-1, 1-6, 6-4, thanks in part to some nervous serving from her opponent.

The 26-year-old Japanese player, who received a wildcard entry into the tournament, dominated the first set with her powerful groundstrokes and strong serve. However, she seemed to lose focus and momentum in the second set, allowing Parry, a 21-year-old ranked 53rd, to capitalize on the opportunity.

In a post-match interview on court, Osaka admitted that her heart was racing throughout the match and expressed mixed feelings about her performance. The match went into a decisive third set, with both players trading breaks early on.

Despite facing a tough challenge from Parry, Osaka managed to hold her nerve and secure a crucial break in the ninth game to take a 5-4 lead. Parry's serve faltered under pressure, leading to three double faults that ultimately cost her the match.

Reflecting on the match, Osaka acknowledged the importance of facing such tough opponents early on in the tournament to find her rhythm. She also thanked the crowd for their support during the match.

Overall, Osaka's victory at Wimbledon marks a significant milestone in her comeback to the tour after a maternity leave. With her determination and resilience on display, Osaka is poised to make a strong impact in the remainder of the tournament.