Naomi Osaka is gearing up for her much-awaited Grand Slam return with next month’s Australian Open. The four-time Major winner and former World No.1 is leaving no stone unturned when it comes to her preparations. But being a young fashion icon, she also knows how to turn heads with her stunning on-court looks. Earlier this year, she did it with a customized outfit, by Nike, but couldn’t extend the appearance after an early exit following her first-round defeat against Caroline Garcia. However, the WTA pro, who’s also a mother now, is keen on flaunting her new design in Australia, come January 2025!
For the unversed, the two-time Australian Open Champion unveiled her custom outfit for the Slam back in January 2024. Her brand partner Nike let her design her own clothes. “Yesterday I found, new purpose in tomorrow. Today, I’m Stronger”, read the post from Nike dated January 14. It showed Naomi in a black, sleeveless outfit with a white strip running across a color-blocked pattern. Well, it seems like Osaka is highly interested in showing off her creativity yet again.
In an Instagram story, dated December 21, she teased her fans with a brand new custom outfit for the 2025 Australian Open. “I realize not a lot of people know that I designed my Australian open outfit for 2024,” she revealed. “Idk why Nike let me do this but I’m excited for everyone to see the outfits to come lol,” she added.
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Yesterday I found, new purpose in tomorrow. Today, I’m Stronger. pic.twitter.com/mUxUABj8Kb
— Nike (@Nike) January 14, 2024
Remember Naomi had even unleashed her own customized look during the US Open a few months ago? Back in August, she debuted her black, ruffled Nike outfit in style during a match against Karolina Muchova. She wore a bomber jacket with a color ribbon on the back. There was also a colored bow on the back and a ruffled skirt. A white band separated the top portion of the dress from the skirt, thus completing the look.
Talking about her Slam comeback, Naomi Osaka has received huge backing from a sports analyst ahead of her appearance in the first Major of 2025. After giving birth to Shai, her daughter, it will be her second outing Down Under.
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Tennis insider highlights Naomi Osaka’s ‘improved’ version ahead of 2025 season
During an episode of the AO Weekly Podcast, analyst Brie Stewart discussed the challenging aspects of Naomi’s career in recent years. She talked about how the Japanese player’s determination keeps her going forward amid obstacles. Reflecting on her professional journey so far, she said, “What would have made some of us think about Naomi Osaka, given the heights she has reached in the game, to see her unranked and then climb back to rank 60? I think it’s a different kind of pressure for her to play. All of a sudden, you can use protective rankings and circumstances to get into some tournaments, but then you get caught trying to prove to yourself and the tennis world that you’re back.”
“Perhaps this version of yourself is a new and improved version. She has clearly evolved in a different way. Previously, the term ‘vulnerability’ might have been used for her, but now she is Naomi in a different way,” Stewart added.
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Despite her post-partum obstacles, Naomi has been able to regain her confidence. Especially when it comes to getting back into shape for her comeback. It’s been evident from her social media posts as well. Lately, she has revealed her transformation through regular workout routines and fitness activities.
Do you think Osaka will leave a lasting impression in Australia and clinch her third title at the event? Let us know in the comments below.
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