Sep 10 (Kyodo) - Naomi Osaka became the first Japanese to win a Grand Slam tennis singles title Sunday at the U.S. Open, sparking celebrations among her family and compatriots.
Osaka's 73-year-old grandfather Tetsuo told reporters at his home in Nemuro, Hokkaido, that he and his wife were ecstatic after watching their granddaughter's 6-2, 6-4 victory over multi-title winner Serena Williams on television.
He said Osaka had called them after the match to tell them about it, adding that he hopes her achievement will lift the spirits of local people still reeling from a recent powerful earthquake.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe took to Instagram to praise Osaka's accomplishment. "At difficult times like now, thank you for the energy and inspiration," his message read.
