UPDATE: Naomi Osaka has once again captured the spotlight at the 2023 U.S. Open, showcasing her unique style and advancing to the next round with a thrilling victory over Hailey Baptiste. In a match held on July 15, 2023, Osaka debuted her second plush toy accessory, affectionately named Arthur Flashe, as part of her eye-catching ensemble.
“Honestly, I’m not a Labubu collector. This is kind of like a one-time thing for the tournament,” Osaka remarked after her match, reflecting her playful spirit. Fans have embraced her quirky accessories, which add an entertaining twist to her competitive edge. In her previous match, Osaka sported a stunning red outfit complete with the initial plush toy, Billie Jean Bling.
Osaka’s choice of a purple tennis dress for her second-round match drew comparisons to a famous look worn by Serena Williams in 2019. “I really wanted to win. I wish I thought more about the process rather than the result, but I’m glad I was able to win,” she shared, emphasizing her focus on performance despite the playful distractions.
During her post-match interview, Osaka humorously explained, “This is my day Labubu. We decided he’s a he. His name is Arthur Flashe. So like … Arthur Ashe … but Arthur Flashe.” Her lighthearted approach has resonated with fans, making her a captivating figure both on and off the court.
In a day filled with surprises, the most shocking upset came from the men’s side, where No. 9 seed Karen Khachanov squandered a two-set lead, ultimately losing to world No. 78 Kamil Majchrzak of Poland in a gripping fifth-set tiebreaker. Khachanov, who reached the semifinals in 2022, faced a stunning exit from the tournament.
In a critical moment of introspection, Osaka also addressed recent controversies surrounding comments made by Jelena Ostapenko about fellow player Taylor Townsend. “I think obviously it’s one of the worst things you can say to a black tennis player in a majority white sport,” she stated, reinforcing her commitment to support her peers and tackle issues of representation in tennis.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Osaka as she prepares for her next match. With her innovative style and fierce determination, she has not only advanced in the U.S. Open but also captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the next round and what surprises Osaka may bring next!