Naomi Osaka, the 26-year-old tennis sensation, made headlines at the 2024 US Open with her bold and stylish fashion choices. Osaka sported a custom-designed outfit from Ambush’s Yoon Ahn in collaboration with Nike for her matches at the tournament. What caught everyone’s attention was the large white bow embellished on the back of a black zip-up jacket paired with a matching black skirt layered over white tulle. The outfit was not only eye-catching but also paid homage to her Japanese heritage with inspiration from the Harajuku style.
In an interview with The New York Times, Naomi Osaka revealed that the inspiration behind her outfit choices was rooted in Japanese fashion, particularly the frills and bows she observed during her visits to Japan. She mentioned that while she doesn’t consider herself girlish on the court, she is drawn to beautiful and cute clothing. Osaka emphasized that the tennis court, especially in New York, is like a stage where fashion plays a significant role. Yoon Ahn, the designer behind the outfits, mentioned that Osaka was vibing with a ‘Lolita’ goth aesthetic, embracing the cutesy and girly elements with confidence.
Osaka’s fashion statements did not go unnoticed by her fans and followers. After her debut match in the green and white ensemble, social media exploded with compliments about her outfit. Many fans praised her for bringing a fresh and unique look to the tennis court, with some comparing it to Serena Williams’ iconic cat suit. The attention to detail, from the green visor to the Jennifer Behr Primavera Hairpins, added an extra touch of elegance to her overall appearance.
Despite Naomi Osaka’s early exit from the US Open after her defeat to Karolína Muchová, her impact on the fashion world remains. Osaka’s fearless approach to blending sportswear with high fashion has set her apart as a trendsetter in the world of tennis. Her ability to combine traditional Japanese elements with modern aesthetics has garnered praise from both the tennis community and the fashion industry. While her time on the court may have ended, we can expect to see more of Naomi Osaka’s impeccable style choices in the future.