Former world number one Osaka wins on return to tennis

Japan’s Naomi Osaka made a winning comeback after four months out with victory in the first round of the Melbourne Summer Set event.

The reigning Australian Open champion, 24, took an indefinite break from tennis after a third round defeat at September’s US Open.

She beat France’s Alize Cornet 6-4 3-6 6-3, but with 57 unforced errors, including eight double faults.

“I really love playing here,” she told the WTA after the match.

“I love New York, but this [the upcoming Australian Open] might be my favourite slam so it feels really good to always come back here.”