Sports

Naomi Osaka Knocked Out in First Round of Australian Open

MELBOURNE, Jan 16 (News On Japan) - Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka made her return to Grand Slam tennis at the Australian Open following the birth of her first child last July, but exiting the stage in straight sets to French player Caroline Garcia, ranked 19th in the world.

This was Osaka's first Grand Slam appearance since the 2022 US Open, and she showed her signature strength with a strong serve from the beginning of the first set. However, she was broken in the fifth game due to unforced errors, losing the set 4-6.

In the second set, Osaka continued to build her game around her serve and scored with her forehand on crucial points, but Garcia matched her intensity, leading to a tiebreak. Osaka took the lead with a service ace, but she couldn't maintain the momentum and was eventually overpowered by Garcia, losing the tiebreak 6-7 and the set.

by Brian Dentry

Source: NHK

A Journey Through Nagahama: Tracing the Legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Nagahama, a city steeped in history and culture, is home to numerous sites connected to the legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. From Nagahama Castle, where visitors can view Hideyoshi’s handwritten documents and the scenery he once gazed upon, to Kunitomo, a major center of firearm production that supported Japan’s unification, the area offers a rich tapestry of historical insights.

Yellow Dust Headed for Japan: Impact on Allergies and Air Quality

A yellow dust storm originating in China has led to the first warning of the year, with forecasts predicting its arrival in Japan, particularly in Hokkaido and the Tohoku region.

Final Chapter for 'Bōsōzoku'?

For over half a century, Nagasaki Prefecture has waged a relentless battle against biker gangs, groups known for their reckless, illegal street racing that disturbed public order and endangered lives. Now, after years of intensified crackdowns, Nagasaki police have announced the virtual eradication of biker gangs, culminating in the recent disbandment of the last remaining group in January 2025.

Osaka Installs 2-Meter Fence Under Glico Sign

Construction has begun on a fence under the Glico sign in Osaka's Minami district, known as 'Gurishita,' to prevent loitering and address crime-related issues.

Japan’s 'Most Dangerous' Zoo to Close in September Over Legal Issues

North Safari Sapporo, which brands itself as 'Japan's most dangerous zoo,' has announced it will close at the end of September, after operating for two decades despite being in an urban planning control zone where development is restricted.

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