Naomi Osaka has once again turned heads at the US Open, not only with her tennis but also with a series of striking fashion statements that have become a defining part of her Grand Slam appearances.
The 28-year-old Japanese tennis star is renowned for her eye-catching on-court outfits. During her first-round victory over Anastasia Zakharova, Osaka arrived on court wearing a dramatic hooded white gown.
Underneath the gown was an all-black, basketball-inspired kit, which she wore while competing. She completed the look with braided hair and a headband, paying tribute to former NBA star Allen Iverson, whom she described as a “trailblazer” for his influence on fashion.
“He’s kind of like done a lot in fashion, whether it’s on purpose or not,” Osaka said.
For her latest appearance, the four-time Grand Slam champion continued the fashion parade, stepping onto the court in a decorated coat before her last-16 match against Elena Rybakina.
While Osaka’s fashion choices have attracted plenty of attention, she has made it clear that she is comfortable pushing boundaries, even when her choices attract criticism.
Reflecting on the reaction to her outfits, Osaka drew a connection to her decision to speak openly about mental health in 2021. That year, she withdrew from the French Open after refusing to participate in mandatory media appearances, citing concerns about her mental health.
“I don’t mind being the first to do something and getting trashed for it,”
Osaka wrote in a social media post
“This happened when I talked about mental health and for some reason it’s happening with my clothes lol.”
Osaka, whose father is Haitian-American and mother is Japanese, also pointed to her heritage as part of her willingness to challenge conventions.
“I’m literally Haitian it’s in my blood to be this way, as long as the people after me have an easier path it’s worth it,” she added.
For Osaka, the fashion is more than just a statement. Much like her approach to tennis and mental health advocacy, she appears determined to carve out her own path, even when it means going where few have gone before.
