NAOMI OSAKA DEFENDS HER EYE-CATCHING STYLE AFTER US OPEN SPOTLIGHT

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has defended her increasingly bold fashion choices, insisting that her outfits are an important part of how she expresses herself away from the tennis court. The Japanese star attracted significant attention throughout the 2026 US Open with a series of elaborate looks created in collaboration with designers and celebrity stylist Law Roach. Her appearances became almost as closely followed as her performances on court.

Osaka's US Open wardrobe included a range of unconventional designs, from a basketball-inspired Nike ensemble paying tribute to the New York Knicks to a dramatic KidSuper cloak and custom Thom Browne pieces. She also appeared in Monse suiting separates, continuing a fashion approach that blends elements of sport, pop culture and high fashion. The different looks reinforced her reputation as one of tennis' most recognisable style figures.

The 28-year-old has increasingly used major tournaments as opportunities to showcase her personality through clothing. Her fashion collaborations have previously generated considerable attention at Grand Slam events, with Osaka making it clear that her appearance is not simply about following traditional tennis fashion. Her latest US Open outfits continued that trend, with designers describing her individuality and creativity as central to the collaborations.

Her fashion statements came during a tournament in which Osaka also reached the fourth round before losing 6-1, 6-4 to Elena Rybakina. Despite the defeat and an ongoing leg issue, Osaka maintained a positive outlook and said her perspective on tennis has changed, particularly since becoming a mother. She stressed that another Grand Slam title would not fundamentally determine her happiness or define her legacy.

Osaka's latest appearances further underline her growing influence beyond tennis, where fashion, business and personal branding have become important parts of her public identity. Rather than separating sport from style, the former world No. 1 continues to use both platforms to express her individuality and build an identity that extends well beyond her results on the court.