Naomi Osaka, seeded 16th at the Australian Open, created a memorable moment before her first-round match against Croatia’s Antonia Ruzic at Melbourne Park. The Japanese star made one of the most dramatic entrances ever seen on a tennis court. She walked onto Rod Laver Arena carrying a white umbrella, wearing a white-brim hat and a flowing white veil, instantly capturing global attention.
Former Wimbledon finalist Tim Henman was left speechless during s7ports commentary after seeing Osaka’s entrance.
Tim Henman and Laura Robson React to Osaka’s Outfit
𝐖𝐔𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐎𝐍𝐄 pic.twitter.com/EZ5NckgnW8
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) January 20, 2026
Reacting live on air, Tim Henman said:
“No, no, this is over to you two… I am not qualified. Wow.”
Laura Robson, who was alongside Henman on commentary, was equally impressed.
She said:
“I think we have to really soak in this moment. It’s a vibe. She really does help design her walk-on outfits, the whole look has been thought out. Can she even see in that? I am not sure.”
Naomi Osaka unveiled an all new custom on court look with Nike and Hong Kong designer Robert Wun for her 1st round match at the #AusOpen2026 🎾 pic.twitter.com/AA4CmX94G7
— Myles David (@TunedIntoTennis) January 20, 2026
Robson added:
“This is phenomenal. Wow, I love it. This is a moment.”
Naomi Osaka’s Tennis Bag and Grand Entrance Details
Osaka’s tennis bag was already placed at her courtside seat before she arrived. It was likely brought earlier, as it would not have matched her carefully planned outfit.
Her entrance was described by many fans and commentators as one of the grandest walk-ons in Australian Open history.
Why Naomi Osaka Chose a Jellyfish-Inspired Outfit
Naomi Osaka later explained the inspiration behind her unique look in an interview with Vogue.
She said:
“When I look back at the players who came before me, I think about how those moments—those looks—have become memories that live forever. This felt like a moment where I could write a little bit of my own story.”
The outfit was inspired by a jellyfish. The idea came to Osaka while she was reading a book to her two-year-old daughter, Shai, when they came across an image of a jellyfish.
Designer Behind Naomi Osaka’s Australian Open Look
Osaka first approached Nike to include the jellyfish concept in her Australian Open outfit but felt the design was incomplete.
She then teamed up with famous fashion designer Robert Wun, a couture designer who has worked with stars like Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, and Cardi B.
Together, they created a striking fashion statement that blended art, storytelling, and sport.
Naomi Osaka’s Australian Open entrance was more than just a fashion moment—it was a powerful statement of creativity and self-expression. Inspired by her daughter and brought to life by top designers, the jellyfish-themed outfit left fans, commentators, and tennis legends in awe. Once again, Osaka proved that tennis is not just about performance on court, but also about identity, confidence, and creating unforgettable moments.
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