At the first Grand Slam of the 2026 season, the Australian Open, Naomi Osaka stunned fans when she stepped onto the court in a dramatic jellyfish-inspired outfit complete with long flowing layers, a wide white hat with a butterfly detail, and even an asymmetrical sun umbrella. It was one of the WTA’s most talked-about fashion moments ever. But Osaka is clearly not done making statements through style, as she already has another extravagant look prepared for the French Open.
Speaking ahead of the French Open, Osaka, who has often described herself as shy and introverted, opened up about why fashion has become such an important form of self-expression for her. She addressed the question many people find puzzling: how someone who considers themselves reserved can still enjoy wearing bold, attention-grabbing outfits.
Naomi Osaka at Grand Slams: Absolute cinema, every time. pic.twitter.com/G4bpH0WD0g
— Jimmie48 Photography (@JJlovesTennis) January 20, 2026
“I feel like fashion, for me, I don’t talk a lot, so that way I can talk through my clothes. That means I can be as loud with colours or patterns or fabric as I want,” the former world No. 1 said in Paris.
“I definitely would say I’m doing something here too. But I think that’s the fun part. I feel like we lost that a little in tennis. I always tell people I grew up with [about] Serena’s and Venus’ grand reveals. I literally can look at a picture and probably tell you what year that outfit came from.
“I know there are some kids or some people that are similar to me that hopefully feel that same way about my outfits. I am a little dramatic when it comes to my fashion sense.”
The four-time Grand Slam champion begins her French Open campaign on Tuesday against world No. 47 Laura Siegemund in the first round, which is when fans will get to see her latest fashion spectacle unveiled on the Paris clay.
Osaka’s Nike apparel is available for purchase at Tennis Warehouse.
