Naomi Osaka, a 26-year-old tennis sensation, captured the attention of spectators and fashion enthusiasts alike at the 2024 US Open. Stepping onto the court in a bow-embellished outfit created in collaboration with Nike and Ambush’s Yoon Ahn, Osaka made a bold statement with her unique sense of style. The custom ensemble featured a black zip-up jacket adorned with a large white bow on the back, paired with a coordinating black skirt layered over white tulle. As she played, she revealed a ruffled black athletic dress underneath, complete with a bow on the back that seamlessly matched her black Nike sneakers. Osaka’s attention to detail extended beyond her clothing, as she accessorized with ruffle-adorned Beats headphones and pearls in her hair, adding a touch of intrigue to her look.
In an interview with The New York Times, Osaka shared the inspiration behind her coquettish looks, which pay homage to her Japanese heritage. Reflecting on her visits to Japan and the abundance of frills and bows she encountered, Osaka explained, “I tend to gravitate toward really beautiful and cute things.” Embracing her girlish side on the tennis court, she acknowledged the significance of making a statement with her fashion choices, particularly in a city like New York where the tennis court serves as a stage for expression. Yoon Ahn, the designer behind the iconic looks, revealed that Osaka was drawn to a “Lolita goth” aesthetic, embracing elements of pink, frills, bows, and lace to exude a sense of cutesy and girly charm in her outfits.
Osaka’s fashion prowess was on full display during her matches at the US Open. For her debut match against Jelena Ostapenko, she opted for a vibrant green and white ensemble that captivated fans and fashion critics alike. Social media buzzed with praise for Osaka’s on-court style, with fans comparing her outfit to Serena Williams’ iconic cat suit and drawing parallels to pop culture references like Charli XCX’s album cover. Osaka’s attention to detail extended to her accessories, including Jennifer Behr Primavera Hairpins that added a touch of elegance to her braids. While her time at the US Open may have come to an end following a loss, Osaka’s impeccable style has cemented her status as a fashion icon in the world of tennis.
Naomi Osaka’s bold fashion choices and attention to detail have solidified her position as a trendsetter on the tennis court. By combining elements of her Japanese heritage with contemporary aesthetics, she has redefined traditional notions of on-court attire and elevated tennis fashion to new heights. As Osaka continues to make her mark on the tennis world, her unique sense of style is sure to inspire a new generation of athletes and fashion enthusiasts alike.