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via Imago
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![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/WhatsApp-Image-2023-08-14-at-18.01.55.jpeg?width=600)
via Imago
Credit: Imago
Naomi Osaka is a player whose popularity skyrocketed after she defeated Serena Williams in the US Open final. While the crowd was hostile to her that night, she has been loved by tennis fans going forward. Due to the newfound fame, she received several sponsors. One of her core sponsors is Nike, which makes her the face of many new products. They usually resonate with players quite a bit, but the current one is facing a considerable backlash from fans.
The nature of the backlash is rather diverse. Many fans of the sport have gone on to chastise Osaka ever since she won her fourth slam. Since her Australian Open win in 2021, Osaka has not returned to a similar level of performance. This has caused fans to lambast the Japanese player. Such kind of criticism was also evoked for the recent photoshoot.
Fans throw snide remarks at Naomi Osaka and Nike
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Naomi Osaka has gained a new level of popularity. Even though she hasn’t stepped foot on the court since January, the Japanese player still gains the attention of fans and followers worldwide. She took part in several ventures when she wasn’t playing tennis. One of those ventures included a campaign with Nike to promote a new line of their products.
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The photo shoot of the promotion was released by the apparel company on their Instagram page recently. The backlash that came their way was evoked due to a quirky pregnancy outfit. While there were a few users who said they liked the pictures, most of the comments were against the product and the $165.37 billion worth company.
A follower of the player heavily chastised her and criticized Nike for not choosing women athletes who are more inspiring. “I can not relate with this person. What a waste of everything. There so many talented women Athletes and you forcing us this boring, lazy, uninspiring vibe“.
“Only way to stay relevant 😂😂😂“.
One user said that the outfit and the pictures were rather banal. “This is hella corny“.
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One user found themselves perplexed by the portrayal as they could not resonate with it. “Bruh what is that 😂😂😂?“
Fed up with the antics of Nike, one user pointed out the downfall of the apparel brand using their tagline. “Ahh yes Nike from “just do it” to “just promote anything”.”
Another user talked about the decrease in the quality of Nike’s promotional campaign and advised them to go back to their roots. “Remember when Nike was cool and about success? Nike need to watch their own movie “air” again to remember their roots“.
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Osaka has faced criticism many times from news outlets and fans alike. However, she always shuts them down and fights back. While the one over Nike’s post is recent, we might not see a reaction anytime soon as she is likely busy with her personal affairs since having her child.
Watch This Story – Naomi Osaka Falls Back on Her Proud Japanese Heritage as She Shows True Gratitude in Naming Her Infant Baby