 to Caroline Garcia in the first round of the Australian Open. A single break proved enough for the French 16th seed to win the opening set against her rusty opponent and she dominated the second set tiebreak to progress in Melbourne. Japanese star Osaka, who has won four Grand Slams, stepped away from tennis in September 2022, citing mental health concerns. After giving birth to a baby girl, Shai, in July, she decided to return for the 2024 season. Garcia paid respect to her defeated opponent after victory under the lights on Rod Laver Arena. “I have a lot of respect for Naomi as a person and as a player,” she said. “She’s been through a lot, but I’m just very glad to see her back and I hope she can enjoy the tennis now and have fun out there. She’s a great...){kind=link}
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MELBOURNE – Naomi Osaka fell at the first hurdle in her Grand Slam comeback on Jan 15, losing 6-4, 7-6 (7-2) to Caroline Garcia in the first round of the Australian Open.
A single break proved enough for the French 16th seed to win the opening set against her rusty opponent and she dominated the second set tiebreak to progress in Melbourne.
Japanese star Osaka, who has won four Grand Slams, stepped away from tennis in September 2022, citing mental health concerns.
After giving birth to a baby girl, Shai, in July, she decided to return for the 2024 season.
Garcia paid respect to her defeated opponent after victory under the lights on Rod Laver Arena.
“I have a lot of respect for Naomi as a person and as a player,” she said.
“She’s been through a lot, but I’m just very glad to see her back and I hope she can enjoy the tennis now and have fun out there. She’s a great…
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