Naomi Osaka reminded tennis fans why she remains one of the sport's most formidable competitors, delivering a commanding performance in her long-awaited return to the Japan Open. The four-time Grand Slam champion dispatched compatriot Wakana Sonobe 6-0, 6-4 in just one hour and 16 minutes, marking her first appearance at the tournament in her home city since 2017.

The 27-year-old was in imperious form during the opening set, steamrolling through six consecutive games without allowing Sonobe to get on the board. Playing in front of a home crowd, Osaka showcased the powerful baseline game that has made her one of the most successful Japanese athletes in tennis history, leaving the wild card entry with virtually no opportunities to establish any rhythm.

While Sonobe managed to find her footing in the second set and made the match more competitive, Osaka's class ultimately shone through. The former world number one maintained her composure and closed out the match in straight sets, demonstrating the kind of form that has seen her climb back into the Top 20 of the world rankings.

Osaka's appearance at the Japan Open comes on the back of an impressive stretch of tennis that has reignited her career trajectory. The Japanese star recently reached the final in Montreal and made a deep run to the semifinals at the US Open, results that have propelled her return to the upper echelons of women's tennis. These performances have proven that Osaka remains a significant threat at the highest level of the sport.

The victory sets up an intriguing second-round encounter with defending champion Suzan Lamens. Osaka enters that matchup with confidence, holding a 1-0 advantage in their head-to-head record. The clash between the former champion and the defending titleholder promises to be one of the highlights of the round of 16.

For Osaka, playing in her home country carries special significance. The eight-year gap since her last appearance at this tournament makes her return all the more meaningful, both for the player and for Japanese tennis fans who have followed her remarkable journey to Grand Slam glory. Her presence at the event adds star power to the tournament and provides inspiration for the next generation of Japanese tennis players.

As Osaka continues her resurgence in the latter stages of 2025, her dominant opening performance in her home city suggests she could be a serious contender for the title. If she can maintain this level of play, the Japan Open may well witness a fairy-tale homecoming for one of tennis's most captivating champions.