A Touch of Magic: Naomi Osaka Makes a Statement with 'Lolita Goth' Inspired Outfit at the US Open

Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion, is back on the tennis court, and she's not just making a comeback—she's making a fashion statement. For her highly-anticipated return to the US Open, Osaka has adopted a unique style that embodies the “Lolita Goth” community, a lacey, anime-inspired style of dressing popularized in 1990s Japan but still influencing young people worldwide.

The look, custom created by designer Yoon Ahn for Nike, is far from the typical streamlined tennis attire. Osaka's walk-on skirt features a tulle petticoat, creating a voluminous silhouette. She paired it with a high-shine black bomber jacket adorned with an oversized white bow, which she later shed to win her first-round match. The bow, however, remained a prominent element, appearing on the back of her vibrant green tiered skirt and even on the heels of her sneakers.

“The inspiration that fueled the look for me — and this might be a Japanese term — is feeling like a ‘magical girl’ on the court,” Osaka explained in a Nike press statement. “There’s a moment of transformation for me when I walk onto the court, and I have a lot of fun playing, so wanting everyone who sees the outfit to connect with that feeling is a really big motivation for me.”

This playful aesthetic, described as “owning the cutesy-ness and the girly-hood,” is a striking departure from the traditionally more masculine world of professional tennis. It’s a bold statement that resonates with the current fashion landscape where girlhood is having a moment.

The 'Lolita Goth' Aesthetic: A Trend Taking Over Fashion

The 'Lolita Goth' community has experienced a resurgence, inspiring designs from renowned brands like Sandy Liang, Simone Rocha, Prada, and Chanel. Symbols of youthful femininity are no longer viewed as reductive, but instead embraced with pride and a sense of playfulness.

“I wouldn’t automatically associate myself with being girlish when I’m on the court,” Osaka told the New York Times. “But I tend to gravitate toward really beautiful and cute things. I think there’s something quite cool in making that an emphasis, especially here in New York. In New York, the tennis court is more like a stage.”

This shift in perception is evident in the rise of tulle, a fabric often associated with feminine charm. From the ribbon-laced hiking sneakers of the sold-out Sandy Liang x Salomon collaboration to the high-fashion bows of Simone Rocha, Prada, and Chanel, the trend is undeniable. This embrace of femininity is a powerful statement, challenging conventional dress codes and celebrating self-expression.

Osaka's Return to the Court: A Journey of Resilience

Osaka's embrace of this playful aesthetic comes after a period of self-reflection and prioritizing her mental health. She withdrew from both the French Open and Wimbledon in 2021, and exited the US Open at Round 3, stepping back from competitive tennis to prioritize her mental health and ultimately become a mother.

After losing in the qualifiers for the Cincinnati Open earlier this month, she posted a vulnerable statement on Instagram, revealing her internal struggles since becoming a mother. “My biggest issue currently isn’t losses though, my biggest issue is that I don’t feel like I’m in my body,” she wrote to her 2.8 million followers. “It’s a strange feeling, missing balls I shouldn’t miss, hitting balls softer than I remember I used to… The only feeling I could liken how I feel right now is being postpartum.”

Osaka's return to the US Open is a testament to her resilience and commitment to the sport. She is not only back on the court but also making a statement about the power of self-expression and embracing all facets of femininity. Her 'Lolita Goth' inspired outfit is a reflection of her personal journey and her determination to redefine what it means to be a powerful woman in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

Beyond the Bows: A Champion's Comeback

Osaka's return to the US Open is not just about fashion; it's about her dedication to her craft. While her iconic outfits draw attention, her performance on the court speaks volumes. In her first round match, she dominated former French Open champion and No. 10 seed Jelena Ostapenko, winning 6-3, 6-2, showcasing her talent and determination.

This victory was not only significant for its comeback story but also for its implications for her future. Osaka's dominance on the court is a clear sign that she is not just back, she is back with a vengeance. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Osaka, watching her navigate the challenges of motherhood, mental health, and the ever-present pressure of the professional tennis world. Her 'Lolita Goth' inspired outfit is not just a fashion statement, it's a symbol of her journey, her strength, and her unwavering pursuit of excellence.