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Because Osaka was playing on an outdoor court, the former world number one had to walk through the crowd for her match.
Unsurprisingly, many incredulous fans couldn’t help but stop and take in Osaka’s latest fashion statement as the 28-year-old walked past them on the runway.
“From my end, I thought it was really funny because I didn’t think anyone expected it,” Osaka said.
“I try to lock up a little bit and put my headphones on. I can feel when I walk past someone, they’ll physically turn their whole body. I thought it was really funny.
“It was cool because I heard some people say, wow, that’s a really nice kimono and stuff like that. So that was cool.”
Osaka said she preferred to “shake things up” when asked if she would wear a kimono ahead of her other match at Wimbledon, with Russian Anastasia Gasanova next.
Osaka has re-established herself in the world’s top 20 since the birth of her daughter in 2023 and reached the semi-finals at last year’s US Open.
But she has never gone beyond the third round at Wimbledon – and said dressing like that can add extra pressure.
“I wouldn’t say wearing these clothes eases my nerves because a little part of my mind wants to do well so I can keep wearing them,” Osaka said.
“Obviously, like at the French Open, you don’t want to wear a ball gown and lose in the first round. It affects my mind a little bit.”
She added: “It’s something I’m used to doing, wearing this extravagant outfit.
“I think everyone has their own way of showing that they’re into fashion. I’m really surprised every time I go into the locker room, I get a lot of questions about it. It seems like fun for everyone. You wouldn’t expect it.”
