Naomi Osaka defends bold fashion choices

Naomi Osaka. Photo: Channels

Naomi Osaka has defended her bold fashion choices, saying she is willing to face criticism if it helps create an easier path for athletes who come after her.

The four-time Grand Slam champion has become known for her eye-catching outfits on court. At the US Open, she drew attention with a hooded white gown during her first-round match against Anastasia Zakharova.

Underneath the gown, Osaka wore an all-black basketball-style kit as she took to the court.

She also appeared with braided hair and a headband as part of a tribute to former NBA star Allen Iverson, whom she described as a “trailblazer” in fashion.

For her latest appearance, Osaka wore a decorated coat at the start of her last-16 match against Elena Rybakina, which she eventually lost.

Addressing criticism of her fashion choices in a social media post on Wednesday, Osaka said she does not mind being the first to challenge expectations, even if it attracts negative reactions.

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

Osaka compared the criticism surrounding her outfits to the backlash she received after speaking openly about her mental health in 2021. She withdrew from the French Open after refusing to participate in mandatory media appearances, saying she had experienced significant anxiety and depression.

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

The Japanese star also pointed to her Haitian heritage, saying her willingness to express herself boldly is part of who she is.

“I’m literally Haitian it’s in my blood to be this way,” she said, adding that enduring criticism is worthwhile if “the people after me have an easier path.”

Osaka’s comments reflect her broader approach to challenging conventions, both on and off the tennis court. For her, the criticism that comes with breaking new ground is a price worth paying if it allows future athletes greater freedom to express their identities.