Naomi Osaka makes fashion statement at Australian Open! Former champion enters court in jellyfish-inspired outfit [Watch Video]

Osaka survived a late scare against Antonia Ruzic to advance to the second round.

Naomi Osaka made a spectacular and unforgettable entrance at the Australian Open 2026, captivating fans and commentators alike with her daring jellyfish-inspired outfit during her first-round match on Rod Laver Arena.

The two-time Australian Open champion and four-time Grand Slam winner turned the tournament’s main show court into a fashion runway before a single ball was struck.

Osaka, seeded No. 16, walked out holding a white umbrella (parasol), wearing a wide-brimmed white hat adorned with a veil that partially concealed her face, and paired it with wide-leg white pleated trousers.

This dramatic walk-on ensemble perfectly complemented her on-court Nike kit, which was a flowing turquoise and white dress with frilly, tendril-like details evoking the graceful, fluid movement of a jellyfish.

The inspiration came from a heartfelt personal source: her young daughter, Shai. While reading a storybook together, Osaka showed her daughter an image of a jellyfish, sparking excitement that translated into the theme.

“There was an image of a jellyfish, and when I showed it to her she got so excited,” Osaka later shared.

The design captured the creature’s elegance, power, and fluidity through sheer layers and organic shapes. Subtle nods to her past included butterfly motifs on the hat and umbrella, a tribute to the iconic 2021 moment when a butterfly landed on her face mid-match at the same tournament.

Osaka collaborated with her longtime Nike team and enlisted acclaimed couturier Robert Wun (also known for dressing stars like Beyoncé, Cardi B, and Ariana Grande) to finalize the walk-on look. Wun’s fantastical textures and movement brought the vision to life.

“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”, emphasized Osaka about the outfit’s significance.

Also Read: Novak Djokovic joins Roger Federer in elite list with opening round win at Australian Open 2026

Osaka advances to second round at Australian Open 2026

On court, Osaka delivered a gritty performance to match the spectacle. She overcame Croatia’s Antonia Ruzic in a three-set battle, winning 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 despite a mid-match technical delay and a late scare when trailing in the decider.

The victory helped her move to the second round, where she faces Sorana Cîrstea. The Romanian earlier overcame Eva Lys in an excellent three-setter battle.

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