Naomi Osaka promised the world that her return to the US Open would characteristic “the most effective outfit” she’s ever worn—and, rattling, did she ship. This yr, she’s hitting the court docket lined in bows (on the again of her bomber jacket, tennis costume, and even her sneakers). However this daring, playful look isn’t nearly fashion—it’s additionally a part of her psychological sport.
Since returning to the tour from maternity go away, the four-time Grand Slam champ has been open in regards to the challenges of performing the way in which she used to, and vogue is a technique she boosts her confidence throughout competitions. “Once I put on what I really feel is an efficient outfit, I positively really feel extra snug,” Osaka mentioned in a New York Occasions interview printed Sunday.
Extra particularly, her girly, coquette theme is definitely a nod to her Japanese heritage (“like Harajuku,” she added). “I bear in mind one of many first occasions I went to Japan, I noticed so many frills and so many bows,” Osaka mentioned. “I wouldn’t robotically affiliate myself with being girlish after I’m on the court docket, however I are inclined to gravitate towards actually lovely and cute issues. I believe there’s one thing fairly cool in making that an emphasis.”
Kiyana Salkeld
Past simply wanting trendy (or as Osaka herself joked, “very conscious, very cutesy”), the dainty ribbons additionally symbolize her swish but highly effective enjoying fashion on the court docket. “Really, my motion coach is a ballerina. She’s additionally my psychological coach,” she added. “Earlier than I met her, I believed ballerinas have been simply versatile, however then I spotted they’re all extremely robust.”
This additionally explains why she determined to go together with two custom-made designs by Nike for this event: One inexperienced ensemble for daytime matches, and one other black one for nighttime competitors. “[The color green] provides me peace and serenity,” Osaka defined. “I believe colours offer you energy.” As for black, that provides her power: “I really feel just a little bit like Black Panther.”
Regardless that Osaka is aware of she’s beneath the highlight for her extremely anticipated return, she’s embracing the second: “Once I placed on my US Open outfit, I’m going to really feel a change,” she mentioned—and that change contains “letting go of the expectations I placed on myself.”
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