Naomi Osaka said it "feels like a dream" as she made a winning return on her first appearance at Wimbledon for five years.
The four-time Grand Slam champion came through 6-1 1-6 6-4 against Diane Parry in the first round on court two.
Japan's Osaka returned to the tour in 2024 after the birth of her first child, daughter Shai, a year ago.
The 26-year-old, who is now ranked 113rd in the world, was injured in 2022 and also missed the 2021 tournament while taking time off to deal with mental health issues.
"I'm really excited to be here and it's funny, Wimbledon was the first tournament I watched after pregnancy and my daughter's turning one tomorrow so, I'm really glad to still be here," said Osaka.
Competing as a wildcard, Osaka raced through the opening set in just 22 minutes, firing a series of winners past French 21-year-old Parry.
Her level dropped in the second set, though, as Parry quickly levelled and the world number 53 twice went a break up in the deciding set.
But Osaka, who has never been beyond the third round at SW19, fought back and three double faults in the final game from Parry led to her downfall.
Osaka will play American 19th seed Emma Navarro in the second round.
Latest Stories
-
Our educational system must be more talent and interests driven – Miranda Greenstreet
3 hours -
Every member of society should get an education – Former head of Institute of Adult Education
3 hours -
Kofi Bentil pushes for sweeping changes to prevent Kenyan-type protests in Ghana
4 hours -
Netherlands beat Turkey to set up Euro 2024 semis with England
5 hours -
Asante Kotoko announce two Sudanese signings
5 hours -
NAPO must tone down in his communication – Ricketts-Hagan
5 hours -
NSMQ2024: How tie-breaker bought Pope John a lifeline to the grand finale
6 hours -
There’s growing despair and desperation in Ghana – Arthur Kennedy warns politicians
6 hours -
Photos: Mahama campaigns on the streets of La Dadekotopon
6 hours -
England beat Switzerland on penalties to reach Euro 2024 semis
7 hours -
Social protection must be a right – Central Region Deputy Social Welfare Director
8 hours -
Food crisis: 82 million Nigerians may go hungry soon, UN warns
9 hours -
Leaked video: Serwaa Amihere didn’t misconduct herself – EIB declares
9 hours -
Empowered by LEAP: Mary Gbodzor’s path to stability
9 hours -
I’ve worked hard for my Black Queens return – Mukarama Abdulai
9 hours