Naomi Osaka recently shared her excitement about showcasing her unique style at the French Open, even admitting that she had packed simpler outfits just in case officials raised concerns about her dazzling gold match dress. The former world No. 1 expressed her joy at being able to make fashion statements on the court.
During her first-round match against Laura Siegemund, Osaka caught the crowd’s eye as she entered Court Suzanne Lenglen wearing a sleek black skirt from designer Kevin Germanier, which she later paired with a stunning yellow-brown and gold Nike dress. The outfit, she said, reminded her of the iconic Eiffel Tower lighting up the Paris skyline.
“I felt like the Eiffel Tower at night when I first saw the dress,” Osaka told reporters after winning her match 6-3, 7-6(3). She admitted, “I was a bit worried because the dress reflects a lot in the sunlight, and I thought the umpire might ask me to change. So, I brought two plain Nike dresses just in case. Thankfully, I didn’t need to wear them. The reflection was beautiful and it brought the Eiffel Tower to mind.”
Osaka has become a notable fashion icon in women’s tennis, previously wearing a jellyfish-inspired outfit at the Australian Open and a floral-themed look at last year’s US Open. She mentioned how she has become more comfortable with her fashion choices over time.
“I’m used to it now,” she said. “The dress I wore in Australia kicked it all off for me. At the U.S. Open, the roses in my hair made me really embrace this side of myself. I don’t find it stressful to express myself through my outfits.”
Osaka also reflected on how tennis players are increasingly seen as entertainers, noting that Grand Slam entrances offer a unique opportunity for athletes to showcase their personalities beyond the game. “Grand Slam walk-ons are when I feel like an entertainer,” she added.
In her conversation, Osaka also welcomed the idea of Serena Williams making a comeback. The 23-time Grand Slam champion has not played since the 2022 US Open but has sparked rumors by rejoining the anti-doping testing pool. “Seeing her back would be amazing for tennis,” Osaka said. “I’d love to see her outfits and her play. She’s truly one of the best.”
Overall, Osaka continues to blend her love for fashion with her career in tennis, making significant strides in both areas.
