In brief
Four‑time major champion Naomi Osaka turned heads on the grass courts of Wimbledon by donning an all‑white kimono, a nod to her Japanese roots that complied with the tournament’s dress code. The bold sartorial choice follows her history of eye‑catching outfits, from a glittering gold dress at the French Open to a jellyfish‑inspired look at the Australian Open. Osaka said the kimono symbolised her heritage and her admiration for the iconic silhouette, citing inspirations such as Kill Bill’s Lucy Liu. Fans cheered as Osaka was escorted to her match, many praising the cultural statement.
Four‑time major champion Naomi Osaka made a bold sartorial statement in London, dressing for her opening match at the All England Club in an elegant, full‑length white kimono that reflected her Japanese heritage while adhering to Wimbledon’s strict dress code.
A previous year’s victory 6‑1, 7‑5 over Frenchman Elsa Jacquemot paved the way for Osaka to showcase the costume, which came after her glittering gold dress at the French Open that was dubbed “the Eiffel Tower at night” and a jellyfish‑inspired look at the Australian Open.
“When I think about Wimbledon, it’s obviously the all‑white. There’s a tradition,” Oska said. She added, “I think about my cultures – my heritage, which is Japanese and Haitian. In my head, I imagine the iconic silhouette of a kimono.”
Osaka recalled the influence of Kill Bill’s Lucy Liu, who wore an all‑white kimono, and said she “fell in love” with the style, using it as a tribute that combined respect and love for Japan.
As Osaka was escorted through crowds on an outdoor court, fans paused to admire the unorthodox look. She later shared that she felt the reaction was “fun” and that many said, “Wow, that’s a beautiful kimono.”
Looking ahead, Osaka said she hopes to shake things up again before her next match, reassuring that the pressure of wearing such outfits is minimal but that the crowd’s reaction gives her confidence to continue showcasing the fashion.
