Naomi Osaka is turning heads at Roland Garros—and not just with her game. The four-time Grand Slam champion kicked off her French Open campaign with a solid 6-3, 7-6 victory in the first round, but it's her eye-popping outfit that has the internet buzzing.
Photos and videos of Osaka's custom black and gold ensemble have amassed more than 1 million views on X, with plenty more pouring in on Instagram. Designed by couturier Kevin Germanier, who specializes in upcycled materials, the outfit is a dazzling spectacle that blends high fashion with tennis tradition. The New York Times described it as glittering so intensely in the afternoon sun that it resembled a figure skating costume more than a typical tennis getup.
Osaka, known for pushing fashion boundaries at Grand Slams, set a high bar earlier this year at the Australian Open, where she debuted a jellyfish-inspired creation by Robert Wun. Now, she's brought that same flair to Paris, sparking a lively debate among fans.
Reactions have been mixed. One fan wrote, I love it!! People on this app are so damn miserable. She's having fun, she's making positive headlines with her outfits which tennis NEEDS right now and she's not doing anything wrong. I really don't see the problem.
Another countered, She better win the matches otherwise this is only nonsense.
A third commented, She is a professional tennis player, she should only be in her tennis kit. I am amazed you allow this.
Meanwhile, one enthusiastic supporter exclaimed, That's the most LIT kit, I ever seen🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥👀👀👀👀👀👀.
Osaka's fashion statement comes amid a broader conversation about athletes expressing themselves through their attire. Paige Spiranac's vibrant golf looks and Danica Patrick's defense of her own bold outfits show that sports fashion remains a hot topic. Even at the French Open, record heat hasn't stopped players from making style statements.
Osaka's outfit is more than just a fashion choice—it's a conversation starter that highlights the intersection of sport and culture. While some purists argue that tennis attire should remain traditional, others applaud Osaka for injecting personality and flair into the game. As she prepares to face Donna Vekic in the second round, all eyes will be on both her performance and her next sartorial move.
What do you think of Osaka's bold look? Love it or hate it, one thing's for sure: it's getting people talking about tennis in a way that few things can.
