Naomi Osaka stands by her unique fashion choices

Naomi Osaka has stood by her unique fashion choices. She says she is ready to face criticism if it helps make things easier for athletes who come after her.

The four-time Grand Slam champion is famous for her striking outfits on the court. At the US Open, she caught everyone's eye with a hooded white gown during her first-round match against Anastasia Zakharova.

Under the gown, Osaka wore an all-black basketball-style kit as she entered the court.

She also sported braided hair and a headband to pay tribute to former NBA star Allen Iverson. She called him a “trailblazer” in fashion.

For her latest match, Osaka wore a decorated coat at the start of her last-16 game against Elena Rybakina, which she ended up losing.

In a social media post on Wednesday, Osaka responded to criticism of her fashion choices. She said she does not mind being the first to challenge expectations, even if it brings negative reactions.

“I don’t mind being the first to do something and getting trashed for it,” she wrote.

Osaka compared the criticism about her outfits to the backlash she faced after being open about her mental health in 2021. She withdrew from the French Open after refusing to take part in mandatory media appearances. She said she had experienced significant anxiety and depression.

“This happened when I talked about mental health and for some reason it’s happening with my clothes lol,” Osaka wrote.

The Japanese star also mentioned her Haitian heritage. She said her willingness to express herself boldly is part of who she is.

“I’m literally Haitian it’s in my blood to be this way,” she said. She added that facing criticism is worthwhile if “the people after me have an easier path.”

Osaka’s comments show her overall approach to challenging norms, both on and off the tennis court. For her, the criticism that comes with breaking new ground is worth it if it gives future athletes more freedom to show their identities.