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Two-time champion Naomi Osaka stole the show on her return to the Australian Open with a spectacular walk-on outfit that left on-lookers “speechless”.
Former world No 1 Osaka, who is known for her bespoke costume designs, arrived onto the court at the Rod Laver Arena with her face covered by a wide-brimmed hat and billowing white veil, while holding a matching umbrella. The Japanese star completed the look with flared trousers, which she then removed before her warm-up, before revealing another pre-match jacket, this one featuring a feathered trim.
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Osaka’s outfit meant she had to have her rackets carried onto the court (AFP via Getty Images)
Osaka’s first-round opponent, the Croatian Antonia Ruzic, ranked 65th in the world, appeared stunned by Osaka’s grand entrance at the pre-match coin toss, with her own arrival onto the court completely overshadowed by Osaka’s reveal. Ruzic had emerged wearing a simple sports t-shirt and shorts while Osaka was making a fashion statement.
“It’s a vibe,” said Laura Robson, the former British No 1. “I love it, this is a moment.”
Also speaking on TNT Sports was Tim Henman, who said he was “not qualified to comment”.
But he added: “Wow, I am speechless. It’s pretty cool. Does it put pressure on your performance?”
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Naomi Osaka arrived for her first round match as if the Rod Laver Arena was a cat-walk (REUTERS)
Osaka began by letting her tennis do the talking as she took the first three games of the match, winning the first set 6-3. Ruzic, though, responded in the second set to level the match, also taking the set 6-3.
Osaka, the 16th seed, reached the US Open semi-finals last season, in her best result since returning to the sport after becoming a mother in 2023.
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Osaka also changed into a special warm-up jacket before the match (AP)
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The former World No 1 removed the flared trousers before her warm-up (Reuters)