When packing a bag before a tennis match, most athletes are concerned about bringing the essentials: extra racquets, a change of clothes, plenty of water and a good luck charm of some sort. Japanese star Naomi Osaka’s checklist often features a different assortment of items.
Embracing a long tradition of bold fashion statements in women’s sports, the 28-year-old born in Beverly Hills – a fashion savvy area of the United States – has merged fashion and tennis in a way not seen before, pioneering a new era of self-expression.
Her outfits have turned every appearance into an all-consuming spectacle of artistry and physicality. Parasols, dress tails, kimono sleeves, Labubus, decorative hair-ties, if you can think of it, chances are the world No. 13 has walked out onto the tennis court with it.
Aside from going viral on social media, and looking stunning while doing it, Osaka’s fashion has spoken to her evolution as a player, mental health advocate and culture creator. It’s come to define much of what fans love about the four-time Grand Slam champion.
So in recognition of her latest foray into fashionable tennis outfits, Olympics.com takes a look back at some of Osaka’s most iconic and inspired outfits on – and off – the court. Scroll down to view some of the most striking images.
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