If there is a player who understands that fashion can also be part of the sporting spectacle, that is Naomi Osaka. The Japanese star proved it again at Wimbledon 2026, where every appearance of hers generates as much anticipation as her matches.
After debuting with an impressive white kimono inspired by Japanese design, the four-time Grand Slam champion surprised again by showing up for the second round in a completely different look, yet equally striking.
This time she chose an all-white ensemble with a wide belt and a long tulled train that trailed behind her as she walked toward the court, turning the traditional players’ walk into a true runway.
From a Kill Bill-inspired kimono to a tulled train
The first look Osaka wore at Wimbledon had already sparked conversations. The tennis player appeared wrapped in a sleek white kimono that reached the floor, a design many compared to the aesthetic universe of Kill Bill, while respecting the tournament’s traditional dress code without surrendering her fashion-forward imprint.
For her next appearance she opted for a complete change of style, though she kept the theatrical spirit that characterizes her productions. Before starting the warm-up, the Japanese player removed the tulled train to compete in the classic white ensemble required by the All England Club.
“I’m just trying to mix it up a little“, Osaka herself explained when asked about her choice.
One of the sport’s leading fashion references
Naomi Osaka’s ensembles have already become one of the sport’s major fashion highlights at each Grand Slam.
At Roland Garros she wore a corset made from recycled old Nike uniforms and a gold dress studded with crystals that, she laughingly said, made her feel “like the Eiffel Tower at night”.
While some players questioned the extra time she needed to remove the haute couture pieces before stepping onto the court, others defended her freedom to express herself.
“Some people take tennis too seriously. It’s just an outfit“, said the Croatian Donna Vekic.
Fashion, identity and an unmistakable personal brand
Far from being mere aesthetic choices, Osaka’s looks form part of a strategy that blends sport, design, and luxury. Her partnership with Nike has allowed her to develop exclusive collections with renowned designers, cementing her status as one of the athletes who best bridged the worlds of tennis and fashion.
In a tournament where white remains the norm, Naomi Osaka proves that even while respecting the rules there is always room to surprise. Each entry onto the court confirms that, beyond contending for another title, she is also playing a parallel game: to become the tennis player with the most style on the circuit.
