Naomi Osaka Secures First Top 10 Victory in Four Years to Advance at US Open

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Naomi Osaka recorded her first win over a top 10 player in more than four years on Tuesday, defeating Jelena Ostapenko 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the US Open.

Now ranked No. 88 after returning from maternity leave, Osaka showcased some of her best tennis this season, hitting 19 winners, including nine aces, while committing just five unforced errors. This victory is a highlight of her 2024 comeback, which has also seen a Wimbledon win and a quarterfinal appearance at a WTA 1000 event.

Osaka was emotional as she entered Louis Armstrong Stadium, recalling her time away from the game. “I remember last year watching from the sidelines and wanting so badly to be back on these courts,” she said. “Winning this match means so much to me.”

Despite the win, Osaka has acknowledged the challenges of returning to top form. In a recent Instagram post, she admitted to struggling with her game, saying she didn’t “feel like I’m in my body” and was missing shots she typically made.

Looking ahead to her second-round match against Karolína Muchová, Osaka plans to stay focused and enjoy the moment. She also shared how her daughter’s restless night before the match reminded her of the preciousness of balancing motherhood with her career.

Osaka made a statement not just with her play, but also with her bold, flamboyant outfit, embracing a maximalist style for the US Open.