Japanese tennis sensation Wakana Sonobe can hardly believe the whirlwind of success that has come her way. Just a day after securing her first main-draw victory against China’s Yuan Yue, the 17-year-old lefty from Saitama is riding high on a wave of confidence and accomplishment. Sonobe, who received a wild card entry into the qualifying rounds of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, showcased her remarkable talent by claiming two wins to reach the main draw and then stunning the World No. 55 Yuan in her first-round match.

 

Making History and Raising Expectations

This is a young athlete creating a name for herself in a sport often dominated by experienced competitors. With her recent triumphs, Sonobe has officially entered the spotlight, leaving fans eager for more. As she stated after her win, “I still can’t believe it. I had never played a player ranked that high before, and she’s a very good player.” Her coach, Ryuji Hirooka, shares in her astonishment but is not entirely surprised, given Sonobe's recent performances: “If she can play at that level, then she can damage some good players as well.”

 

Dominance in 2025

Sonobe's remarkable journey in 2025 has seen her claim an impressive 9-0 record across junior and professional circuits, winning every set since the Australian Open. She has achieved victory against three Top 100 players, a feat that is rare for someone so early in their career. Her aggressive baseline game, honed over the years, allows her to play with confidence and power. “When I was young, I was hitting hard and my coach never told me, ‘Don’t miss, just play,’” she explains. This freedom on the court has become a hallmark of her style.

 

A Tribute to Mentors and Inspirations

Sonobe’s journey has also been shaped by her upbringing and the mentors she has encountered. At just four years old, inspired by her older brother Ren, she fell in love with tennis. Her path led her to the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida, where she trained alongside other Japanese talents like Kei Nishikori, whose legacy continues to motivate her. “He’s a star in Japan. It made me want to play in the Grand Slams,” says Sonobe. Nishikori’s guidance has not just focused on techniques but also on the mental aspects of the game, proving invaluable as she navigates the professional circuit.

 

Future Aspirations and Personal Touches

As a fan of tennis legends, Sonobe dreams of competing against some of the best, including two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova. “Hopefully I can play her one day,” she expresses with anticipation. Her admiration extends to Naomi Osaka, a trailblazer in women’s tennis, whom she describes as “a great player” and a source of pride for Japan.

 

While ranked No. 837 at the start of the week, Sonobe’s achievements in Abu Dhabi will significantly elevate her position in the rankings, possibly halving it. Her goal for this season includes winning an ITF title, but her recent performances suggest she may target even more ambitious goals.

 

Balancing Life and Tennis

Away from the court, Sonobe juggles tennis with her education, pursuing distance learning while working on her English. Loved for her simplicity, she enjoys unwinding with Netflix and indulging in sushi, particularly salmon nigiri. With one year left in high school, she expresses a balanced approach to her life: “I usually just watch Netflix, and I like to sleep,” she quips.

 

The Rising Star’s Journey Continues

With her historic win at the Australian Open as the first Japanese girls' singles champion and her rapid ascent in the sport, Wakana Sonobe is surely a name to watch. As she continues to break barriers and push herself in the competitive world of tennis, fans can only wonder what incredible feats this promising athlete will achieve next. Whether she’s dominating on the court or enjoying a quiet evening at home, one thing is clear: Wakana Sonobe is just getting started.