Naomi Osaka faced open criticism from her first-round opponent, Laura Siegemund, for creating a 'fashion show' with her elaborate walk-on outfit at the French Open, rather than focusing solely on the match, according to WWD. Osaka arrived for her second-round match in a metallic gold bomber jacket over a sequined gold playing dress, complete with an ivory train, before securing a win, as reported by AP News. For her first-round appearance, she wore a black corset and a pleated, cascading skirt layered over a gold Nike dress, according to The New York Times.
Naomi Osaka is not just winning at the French Open; she's making headlines with every step onto the court. Her elaborate, couture-inspired fashion choices are sparking fierce debate, often stealing the spotlight from her impressive athletic achievements. This ongoing discussion around her presentation points to a seismic shift in how athletes command attention.
Athletes are increasingly using high fashion as a strategic tool to control their narrative and expand their brand beyond the sport, potentially reshaping the public's perception of professional tennis and its stars.
Naomi Osaka's Runway on the Clay
Forget the standard tennis whites. Naomi Osaka arrived at the French Open ready to turn heads and challenge norms. Her first-round ensemble, a black corset layered over a shimmering, clay-toned gold Nike dress, featured a semi-sheer pleated maxi skirt and a sleeveless zip-up corset embellished with upcycled beading, according to The New York Times and ELLE. It was a look so striking, her opponent Laura Siegemund openly criticized it as a 'fashion show' that ate up time, WWD reported. Osaka doubled down for her second-round match, sporting a metallic gold bomber jacket over a sequined gold playing dress, complete with an ivory train, before securing a win, as reported by AP News. She even added an ivory bustle skirt by Germanier to a pouf-sleeve Nike track jacket and visor, ELLE confirmed. These weren't just outfits; they were meticulously crafted statements, each piece a deliberate choice to command attention before a single ball was struck.
