Naomi Osaka pays love and respect to Japan in Wimbledon kimono

Sun Sep 06 2026 03:32:51 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The 28‑year‑old champion debuted a full‑length kimono at Wimbledon, blending Japanese tradition with the tournament’s strict dress code and sparking cheers from fans.

Osaka, known for her bold fashion choices, arrived in an all‑white kimono for her opening match at Wimbledon, honouring her Japanese roots while adhering to the All England Club’s strict all‑white rule. She cited inspirations ranging from the film "Kill Bill" to traditional Japanese silhouettes, turning a tennis match into a living portrait of cultural homage. Spectators were captivated by the garment’s elegance, boosting Osaka’s aura as a style icon. While the statement brings excitement, Osaka acknowledges the added pressure of performing in such a distinctive outfit. The 28‑year‑old continues to compete at the highest level, balancing her legendary performance record with her innovative sartorial flair.

Naomi Osaka pays love and respect to Japan in Wimbledon kimono

The 28‑year‑old Olympic champion made headlines at the All England Club, slipping into a full‑length, all‑white silk kimono for her opening‑round match. The garment was a deliberate homage to her Japanese heritage while aligning with Wimbledon’s strict all‑white dress code.

Osaka’s penchant for theatrical outfits is well known. In 2025 she dazzled in a gold dress described as “the Eiffel Tower at night” at the French Open, and earlier this year she wore a jellyfish‑inspired look at the Australian Open.

“When I think about Wimbledon, it’s obviously the all‑white tradition,” Osaka said after a 6‑1 7‑5 win over Elsa Jacquemot. “In my mind, I see my Japanese and Haitian heritage; the most iconic Japanese silhouette is the kimono. I also loved Lucy Liu’s white kimono in “Kill Bill,” which sparked this idea.”

Naomi Osaka wearing an all‑white kimono before her first‑round Wimbledon match — Naomi Osaka in her white kimono at Wimbledon.

The moment was amplified by fans lining the walk‑off path, many stopping to take photos of the striking outfit. Osaka noted that the reaction was “really fun” because she hadn’t expected such a response.

While Osaka aims to push the creative envelope, she acknowledged the pressure of performing in such flamboyant attire. “A portion of my mind wants to do well so I can continue wearing them,” she said. “It does make me consider the risk of a first‑round exit when wearing a ball gown.”

The 28‑year‑old has re‑established herself in the world’s top 20 since giving birth to her daughter in 2023, reaching the semi‑finals at last year’s US Open. Whether she will continue the kimono streak at future Wimbledon encounters remains to be seen, but her fashion statements are already a legacy in the sport that transcends tennis and culture alike.