Photo Credit: Channels / PunchNG [Original photo caption: Naomi Osaka. Photo: Channels]
Naomi Osaka Defends Bold Fashion Statements On Court
Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka says she is unbothered by criticism over her daring on-court fashion, insisting she is ready to take the heat if it paves the way for future athletes.

The former world No. 1 has turned heads at this year’s US Open with her eye-catching looks. For her first-round clash against Anastasia Zakharova, Osaka walked onto court in a dramatic hooded white gown, before revealing an all-black basketball-inspired kit underneath.

The outfit was completed with braided hair and a headband, which she said was a tribute to NBA legend Allen Iverson, whom she described as a “trailblazer” in fashion.

She continued the fashion parade in her Round of 16 match against Elena Rybakina, appearing in a heavily decorated coat before the start of play. She eventually lost that match.

Responding to the backlash in a social media post on Wednesday, Osaka said she has no problem being the one to challenge norms.

“I don’t mind being the first to do something and getting trashed for it,” she wrote.

The Japanese star likened the current criticism to the reaction she faced in 2021 after opening up about her mental health struggles. Osaka withdrew from the French Open that year after skipping mandatory press conferences, revealing she had been battling anxiety and depression.

“This happened when I talked about mental health and for some reason it’s happening with my clothes lol,” she added.

Osaka also linked her bold self-expression to her roots, stating: “I’m literally Haitian it’s in my blood to be this way,” noting that it would be worth it if “the people after me have an easier path.”

For Osaka, breaking conventions – whether in tennis, mental health advocacy, or fashion – comes with criticism, but it’s a price she is willing to pay.
Source: Punch Newspapers –