Naomi Osaka’s much-anticipated return to competitive tennis took a disappointing turn at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. The former world No. 1 was eliminated in the first round on Wednesday, suffering a 6-4, 6-4 defeat to Colombia’s Camila Osorio.
A Tough Comeback for Osaka
This marked Osaka’s first match since her injury-forced retirement at the Australian Open. The four-time Grand Slam champion, who won the Indian Wells title in 2018, had been sidelined due to an abdominal strain. Despite her efforts to regain form, she struggled against the relentless Osorio, ultimately bowing out in just 91 minutes on Court 1.
Osaka, ranked 56th, had hoped for a fresh start in 2025 after an injury-plagued comeback last season. She made an impressive run to the final at the ASB Classic in Auckland earlier this year but had to withdraw due to the same abdominal issue that resurfaced in Melbourne.
Osorio’s Big Moment
For Osorio, this was a dream come true. The 23-year-old Colombian, ranked 53rd, celebrated her first career win against a former world No. 1. “It’s crazy for me. It’s a dream come true,” she said after her victory. “I really wanted to play on this court, and facing Naomi was incredible. I still can’t believe I won!”
Osorio, who won her second WTA title in Bogota last spring, showed impressive composure. She broke Osaka late in the first set to take a 5-4 lead and closed it out confidently. Despite Osaka breaking back early in the second set, Osorio held firm, breaking again at 4-3 and serving out the match with poise.
Osaka’s Struggles Continue
Osaka’s powerful baseline game was inconsistent throughout the match. She racked up more winners than Osorio but also made more unforced errors. Her serve, usually a strong weapon, faltered at crucial moments, allowing Osorio to dictate the rallies.
A key moment came in the final game when Osorio, leading 5-4, faced 0-40 on her serve. Showing remarkable resilience, she saved four break points and sealed the match with a blistering forehand winner.
What’s Next?
With this victory, Osorio moves on to face No. 22 seed Clara Tauson in the second round. Tauson, fresh off a strong start to the season, recently made the final at the WTA 1000 event in Dubai, upsetting world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka along the way.
For Osaka, this loss raises concerns about her fitness and ability to compete at the highest level. Having missed the Middle East swing to focus on recovery, she will now have to reassess her schedule and training to avoid further setbacks.
Despite the defeat, Osaka remains a fan favorite, and her journey back to peak form will be closely watched. Can she bounce back in time for the clay and grass seasons? Tennis fans around the world will be eager to find out.
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