Naomi Osaka advanced to the fourth round of Wimbledon for the first time on Monday, continuing a strong run at the tournament marked by both impressive play and notable fashion statements. The 14th-seeded former world No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion has yet to drop a set in the first three rounds, adopting an aggressive playing style reminiscent of her earlier major title runs while showing adaptability on grass.
Osaka’s progression through the draw has been efficient, spending less time on court than any other player after three matches. She began her campaign on Court No. 3, then moved to Court No. 2, and secured her victory on Court No. 1 against Daria Kasatkina, signaling her ascent to higher-profile matches. Despite this rise, Osaka expressed some apprehension about playing on Centre Court, describing it as “the scariest Centre Court” she has experienced due to its imposing atmosphere.
Beyond her tennis, Osaka has drawn significant attention for her fashion choices during walk-ons across the tournament. She has embraced bold styles that contrast with Wimbledon’s traditional all-white dress code, featuring eye-catching outfits such as a “Kill Bill” inspired kimono and an intricately embroidered gown. This focus on fashion has often overshadowed inquiries about her tennis, a dynamic Osaka appears to welcome. She has described apparel as a comfortable subject to discuss, compared to the pressures of analyzing her game.
Osaka has previously spoken about using fashion as a form of self-expression and confidence-building, especially given her introverted nature. This approach has allowed her to take control of the narrative around her appearances at Wimbledon, a venue where she has yet to reach this stage in her five attempts.
Looking ahead, Osaka is scheduled to face world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the Wimbledon last 16, a match likely to be played on Centre Court. The two will meet for the fourth time in quick succession after a six-year gap since their initial encounter at the 2018 US Open. This season, Sabalenka has prevailed in all three meetings, including a straight-sets victory in last month’s French Open last 16, a match noted for Sabalenka’s diversified game and dominance.
Osaka, who stepped back from competition in early 2023 to give birth to her daughter Shai, has yet to regain certain aspects of her previous on-court form, as recent results suggest. Still, her presence at Wimbledon this year offers glimpses of a renewed, assertive style on grass.
Off the court, Osaka’s fashion expressions continue to inspire others at the tournament, with male players like Frances Tiafoe and Taylor Fritz acknowledging her influence. She has indicated plans to continue unveiling distinctive outfits throughout the fortnight, stating that the longer she remains in the competition, the more stories she hopes to tell through her clothing choices.