Naomi Osaka 'has never played a match as windy' as she wins Indian Wells opener

Naomi Osaka revealed she has “never played a match that was that windy” after overcoming Sloane Stephens in difficult conditions at Indian Wells.

Osaka and Stephens met in the first round of the WTA 1000 event, with the Japanese star coming back from one set down to triumph 3-6, 6-1, 6-2.

Both players were forced to battle strong gusts of wind throughout the match, with the weather conditions impacting their service tosses and ball bounces on the court.

“It was a bit frustrating but it was also funny at the same time because there was debris flying around the court,” Osaka said. “I’ve also never played a match that was that windy, so it was also a new experience.

“I was just grateful that there were fans watching the match. Apparently, it was very cold so the fact that they stuck around really meant a lot to me.”

Osaka is not yet back to her best since returning to the tennis court after a four month break, but there have been promising signs.

The four-time Grand Slam champion triumphed in her first three matches of 2022, dropping just one set while playing at the Melbourne Summer Set.

She lost in the third round of the Australian Open, but only after a tough battle against Amanda Anisimova. The 24-year-old revealed she was able to put this experience to good use.

Returning to #IndianWells with a win