Melbourne, Australia – Wakanas Sonobe, hailing from Saitama City, has made history by becoming the first Japanese player to win the Australian Open Junior Girls singles title. At just 17 years old and standing 174 centimeters tall, Sonobe's powerful left-handed play, featuring serves close to 180 kilometers per hour and strong forehand strikes, has captivated tennis enthusiasts.
"This year’s goal is to win at professional tournaments. I want to challenge myself to see how far my style of play can go," stated Sonobe, reflecting her drive as she advances her tennis career.
The Australian Open, held earlier this month, witnessed Sonobe progress through the rounds with remarkable tenacity. Starting as the fourth seed, she navigated the rounds without dropping a single set, displaying her potent skills on the court. During the final, watched by her family, Sonobe demonstrated her commanding presence, clinching victory with scores of 6–0, 6–1. "I felt no pressure and played as I usually do. I didn’t give my opponent any chances to attack," she noted after the match.
This remarkable win is particularly significant, marking the first time since 1969—when Kazuko Sawamatsu triumphed at Wimbledon—that a Japanese player has secured the title at major junior singles competitions. Sonobe expressed her elation during the awards ceremony, stating, "It was so wonderful. I only felt happiness, and I was almost moved to tears," emphasizing the emotional impact of her accomplishment.
Training at the legendary IMG Academy, the same institution as renowned player Kei Nishikori, Sonobe has honed her skills significantly. Under the guidance of coach Ryuji Hirooka, she emphasized the importance of physical conditioning. "Looking back at my old videos, my movements were so slow," Sonobe reflected on her growth during training.
After her Australian Open victory, Sonobe competed at the Abu Dhabi Open, making her debut at the WTA Tour level. Despite entering with the world rank of 837 at the time, she stunned spectators by defeating her first-round opponent ranked 55th globally. Although she encountered defeat against former world No. 2 during the next round, Sonobe showcased impressive performances, demonstrating her ability to compete with established players and significantly improving her world ranking to 464th post-tournament.
Sonobe's love for tennis ignited at the age of four, inspired by her older brother. At the Yonoko Tennis Club, where she joined the junior class at the age of six, she fondly recalls, "I've always enjoyed it. I didn't feel pressure; I just played tennis like I wanted. This enjoyment helped me develop my skills." The atmosphere at the club remains encouraging, as evident from the bouquet of flowers presented to her upon her return after the championship.
Embodying the essence of her name, which signifies good fortune, both her parents wish for her to spread positive influence through her achievements. "Winning is important, but we hope she becomes a beloved player," her parents conveyed warmly.
Looking to the future, Sonobe remains focused on present challenges rather than contemplating long-term goals. "I don’t feel I have done something incredible. This year, I want to participate more in professional tournaments and improve my ranking. I will fight through each match one at a time." Her relentless pursuit of improvement stands as the driving force behind her rising star.
Reflecting on Sonobe's stellar performance, Ryo Onishi, the president of the organization managing Yonoko Tennis Club, expressed his admiration. "What she accomplished is enormous. I was only filled with happiness, and it almost brought me to tears as I watched her achieve such greatness. I believe her competitive spirit will lead her to strengthen as she continues to face challenges. I hope she remains the powerful player everyone supports," Onishi remarked.