Naomi Osaka explained what was difficult about claiming her first Wimbledon victory since 2018.
The 26-year-old had a tricky encounter against France’s Diane Parry in round one but she made a terrific start by claiming the first set 6-1.
The World number 53 fought her way back and levelled the match, before utilising her slice backhands to great effect later in the match.
Osaka was down a break on two separate occasions in the final set, but she would not be denied as she reached round two with a 6-1, 1-6, 6-4 victory following three double faults in the final game from Parry.
What did Naomi Osaka say about her Wimbledon first round match?
Osaka needed one hour and 32 minutes to claim her first win at Wimbledon since 2018.
Parry is known not only for being one of the very few WTA players that possess a one-handed backhand, but also has a very effective slice which gave Osaka some problems.
But the former World number one overcame the challenge to book her spot in round two, and she stressed afterwards just how difficult the encounter was.
“I feel like today honestly felt very hectic just because of the way she played. I had to constantly tell myself to be in control of the point”, Osaka said.
“When she was slicing and stuff, it was a little stressful. I feel really relieved to have won this in three sets. I think it will do good for my character development.”
Who will Naomi Osaka play next?
After winning her first career meeting against Parry, Osaka will face another player for the first time in round two.
Emma Navarro cruised past Wang Qiang with the loss of just two games to set up a clash with the four-time Grand Slam champion.
The American enters the tournament in good form after reaching the semi-finals of the Bad Homburg Open on Friday.
The 23-year-old is adept at soaking up her opponent’s heavy groundstrokes and counter punching, which Osaka will need to be wary of coming Wednesday.
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