Boris Becker Questions Naomi Osaka's 'Contradictory' Fashion Statement at Australian Open
Tennis icon Boris Becker has sparked controversy by labelling Naomi Osaka's striking Australian Open entrance outfit as a "contradiction". The four-time Grand Slam champion made a dramatic appearance at Melbourne Park on Tuesday, captivating fans with a jellyfish-inspired ensemble that has divided opinion across the tennis world.
Osaka's Showstopping Entrance Divides Opinion
Ahead of her first-round victory against Croatia's Antonia Ruzic, Osaka made a memorable entrance at Rod Laver Arena wearing a stunning turquoise tunic paired with flowing, crimped white trousers. The 28-year-old mother completed the look with a brimmed white hat featuring an attached veil that trailed behind her, while carrying a matching parasol that added to the theatrical presentation.
The Japanese star later revealed her fashion inspiration, explaining she wanted to "put her name against some of the greats of the game" who have previously dazzled audiences with groundbreaking outfits. This isn't the first time Osaka has turned heads with her sartorial choices, having previously worn a bright-green skirt with a silk bow during warm-ups at last year's US Open.
Becker's Criticism of Osaka's 'Contradiction'
While acknowledging the outfit was "iconic", six-time Grand Slam champion Becker expressed reservations during commentary for TNT Sports. "These are, of course, images for the media," Becker stated. "The way she entered the court is already iconic. No other player has dared to wear such an outfit. But she did."
Becker highlighted what he perceives as inconsistency in Osaka's public persona: "But there is also a contradiction: on the one hand, she doesn't want to be under so much pressure, she doesn't want to be in the public eye and in the media so much – and then she comes onto centre court in an outfit like that. Of course, that puts her back in the public spotlight."
The German tennis legend referenced Osaka's previous mental health struggles, noting: "I would point out that she also needed a mental break a few years ago. For me, it's generally important that the focus here is on the sport."
Osaka's Mental Health Advocacy and Fashion Philosophy
Osaka made international headlines in 2021 when she withdrew from the French Open and limited tournament appearances, citing mental health concerns. At the time, she wrote on social media: "I've often felt that people have no regard for athletes' mental health and this rings very true whenever I see a press conference or partake in one. I'm just not going to subject myself to people who doubt me."
When questioned about potential pressure from her dramatic entrance, Osaka offered a different perspective: "I realise I'm a little strange because I don't really think I care. I just feel like I want to do things that create joy and happiness. Obviously, I really love fashion. That makes me excited to wake up and do the whole walk-on or whatever."
The softly-spoken champion elaborated on her court persona: "For me, I feel like when I step on the court, I'm not the me that you're talking to right now. I would never yell 'C'mon' that loud in a normal setting. I almost feel like I'm a Barbie that dresses up and goes on the court and does something. When I come back in the locker room is when I'm like my true, quiet Naomi."
Victorious Return to Grand Slam Competition
Despite the fashion controversy, Osaka secured a hard-fought 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 victory against world number 65 Ruzic. After claiming the first set, Osaka faced determined resistance from her Croatian opponent who forced a deciding third set. The match remained tightly contested until Osaka demonstrated her championship experience, breaking serve in the eighth game to secure her place in the second round.
This victory marks a positive return to Melbourne Park for Osaka, who hasn't won a WTA Tour event since her Australian Open triumph in 2021. Her fashion statement has undoubtedly generated significant discussion, highlighting the ongoing tension between athletic performance, personal expression, and public scrutiny in professional tennis.
