Naomi Osaka has disclosed her role as the creative mind behind her Australian Open ensemble as she gears up for a potential fifth Grand Slam victory. The Japanese star is set to return to Melbourne next month, aiming to add to her 2019 and 2021 Australian titles.

Despite an unexpected first-round exit at the hands of Caroline Garcia earlier in Australia, Osaka, now a new mother, is determined to dazzle on the court with her self-designed gear. The former world No. 1, typically outfitted by Nike, surprised fans by announcing her involvement in the design process, a move that many assumed was initiated by her sponsor.

“I realize not a lot of people know that I designed my Australian Open outfit for 2024,” Osaka shared on Instagram, recalling her previous design worn in the intense Aussie heat—a sleek black sleeveless number accented with a white stripe over a color-block pattern.

Teasing her followers with hints about her upcoming tournament look, Osaka playfully questioned Nike’s decision to greenlight her creative input, expressing excitement for the future reveals: “Idk (I don’t know) why Nike let me do this but I’m excited for everyone to see the outfits to come lol.”

Those familiar with Osaka know that her self-deprecating humor is a part of her charm, often making candid remarks about her own behavior and skills. However, there’s a solid reason why the 27-year-old tennis star is trusted to assemble stylish ensembles over Nike’s top-paid designers: her marketability.

As one of the most popular figures in women’s tennis, Osaka’s unique and sometimes quirky personality appeals to the Gen Z fanbase of the sport. Her custom outfits at the U.S. Open have been modern, fashionable, and eye-catching, with her U.S. Open look making headlines.

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In August, she stylishly debuted a black, ruffled Nike outfit during a match against Karolina Muchova, pairing a bomber jacket with a ribbon on the back and a styled skirt. This will be her second appearance in Australia since the birth of her daughter, Shai.

Recently, Osaka shared some of the challenges she has faced post-pregnancy. “It’s a strange feeling, missing balls I shouldn’t miss, hitting balls softer than I remember I used to,” she admitted in August. I try to tell myself, ‘It’s fine you’re doing great. Just get through this one and keep pushing’, mentally it’s really draining though. Internally, I hear myself screaming, ‘What the hell is happening?!?!'”