A US Open champion yet again, the spotlight cast on 22-year old Naomi Osaka differs significantly from her first triumph at Arthur Ashe Stadium a mere two years ago. While her 2018 win was highlighted by the (then still shy) shooting star apologizing for her win over her idol Serena Williams, Osaka’s prolific appearance at the 2020 US Open was about what she was wearing … or rather whom she was wearing.
Osaka made sure to use her platform to raise awareness by wearing masks with the names of victims of police brutality each time she walked onto the court in Flushing Meadows. Her choice was just as applaudable as it was bold: Seven masks, one for each round, put a lot of pressure on the 22-year old. But in true championship fashion, Osaka came through wearing all seven and taking home the trophy in the end.
But there was another source of strength for Naomi Osaka during her memorable run through the US Open bracket: A Kobe jersey! Osaka wore it after every match. Who would have thought that the combination of Agassi-throwback Nike tennis swag and a Bryant tribute can take you all the way?
I wore this jersey every day after my matches. I truly think it gave me strength. Always ??
Naomi Osaka
The mamba mentality is strong with this one!
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