Naomi Osaka is back in the U.S. Open after two years, and if you thought she was just going to waltz onto the court in a plain tennis dress, think again. On Day 1, she strutted out like she was heading to a runway show in Tokyo’s Harajuku district, wearing a dress that screamed, “I’m here to wow and win!” With ruffles, bows, and a style so bold it could practically serve an ace itself, Osaka proved she was not just playing for the title—she was playing for best dressed, too.
A fashion debut that stole the show
She SERVEDDDDD today at the #USOPEN in the outfit I made for her🎾🖤#Lolita fashion offers an escape from adulthood, a return to the innocence and beauty of childhood. It’s a doorway to a fantasy world where you can craft an ideal identity that may not fit everyday norms but… pic.twitter.com/4xlzbqUY4e
— YOON (@YOON_AMBUSH) August 28, 2024
The four-time Grand Slam champion made a dazzling return to the Louis Armstrong Stadium, debuting a green, tulle-tiered dress that could only be described as “Lolita goth chic.” Designed by Yoon Ahn of Ambush, the outfit was part of a custom collaboration with Nike, showcasing Osaka’s love for fashion as fearless as her forehand.
Adding to the drama, Osaka’s outfit featured removable layers, including a tulle warm-up jacket with a tennis ball zipper and a warm-up skirt adorned with even more tulle. In a pre-match picture shared on the designer’s page online, Osaka is seen casually removing these layers to reveal the striking green sleeveless dress underneath—a moment as captivating as her on-court performance. The dress was a nod to the striking street styles of Harajuku, where Osaka first fell in love with fashion’s wilder side. Before stepping on the court, Osaka said, “I hope this isn’t too much!” Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. It was just right.
From headsets to heels: The details that made the look
Osaka’s outfit was more than just a dress; it was an ensemble that covered every detail from head to toe. As she walked onto the court, her signature Beats headphones were transformed into an elaborate “Lolita”-style headdress with pearls and bows. Even her footwear got in on the action. Her white Nike Zoom GP Challenge 1 shoes featured a green bow on the back heel, tying her whole look with flair. Every piece was a statement, every bow was a bold choice, and every step she took was a reminder that she’s just as much a force in fashion as in tennis.
Serving aces and serving looks
But let’s not forget: beneath the frills and fashion, Osaka is still one of the fiercest competitors on the court. She proved it by sweeping past former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2. It was her first win against a Top-10 opponent since 2020, and she did it with the same grace and power that have defined her career. With every point, Osaka reminded the world that while her fashion sense might be playful, her game is seriously on point.
A sneak peek at what’s next
It wasn’t just for daytime drama. Osaka hinted at a black version of the dress for her night matches, teasing fans with what’s to come. Whether it’s day or night, green or black, one thing’s for sure: Osaka is serving looks as fiercely as she’s serving tennis balls.
More than a comeback
Naomi was enjoying the moment of being back at the US Open 🤗 pic.twitter.com/22XzmV1H2h
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 27, 2024
Naomi Osaka’s return to the U.S. Open wasn’t just a comeback—it was a reminder that she’s a force to be reckoned with, both on the court and in the fashion world. With each match, fans are not only watching her play but eagerly awaiting her next outfit reveal. In a sport where style and performance rarely mix so effortlessly, Osaka is redefining what it means to be a tennis champion. She’s here to play, win, and definitely slay.
