Article by Roxana Fleşeru – Published Wednesday, 27 May 2026, 10:19 / Updated Wednesday, 27 May 2026 10:30
Naomi Osaka (28, 16 WTA) cruised past Laura Siegemund (38, 47 WTA) 6-3, 7-6 (3) in the first round of Roland Garros, then opened up about what's behind her extravagant outfit this year.
Naomi Osaka made a spectacular entrance to the court at Roland Garros as promised. The Japanese wore an outfit by designer Kevin Germanier when entering the arena, and during the match with Laura Siegemund, a gold one created by Nike.
“At the Australian Open I worked with Robert Wun and it was a lot of fun, and now being in Paris I wanted to work with Kevin. I really enjoy watching the creative process, especially when there's already a base on which they have to build something new. We talk a lot beforehand and exchange ideas, and for me that's the most exciting part.”
The Japanese beat Laura Siegemund in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6 (3), and admitted she thought she might have problems with her playing equipment.
“I was a bit worried that the ref was going to take me off the pitch because of the reflections the material was making in the sun. I had two normal Nike dressing gowns ready – thanks Nike – but luckily I didn't have to wear them.” the Japanese woman said at the press conference.
She continued: “When I saw the dress in real life, I felt like I looked like the Eiffel Tower at night, when it lights up and sparkles everywhere. The reflection of the dress looked really beautiful and really reminded me of the Eiffel Tower.”
Naomi Osaka, artist and athlete
Asked if it was difficult for her to make the change from extravagant attire to sports equipment, the four-time Grand Slam champion replied:
“I got used to it. I think it all started with the bow dress from the collaboration with Ambush and then with the roses in the hair at the US Open. Since then I started to get involved much more in this creative side. At the Grand Slam tournaments, the moment of entering the court is probably the only moment when I feel that I am also a kind of artist, not just an athlete.”
Naomi Osaka also spoke about the dinner she organized in Paris for black athletes. “It meant a lot. And the fact that Gael Monfils was there was special, because he is one of my idols and this was his last Roland Garros. On the circuit you build a kind of family, and I felt that everyone in that room was part of my family,” said the former world leader.
VIDEO. Summary of the match between Naomi Osaka and Laura Siegemund
The Japanese, who has not yet passed the third round at Roland Garros, will meet Donna Vekic (29 years old, 72 WTA) for a place in this phase.
