Naomi Osaka stands confidently on top of a classic yellow taxi cab in the heart of Manhattan. Dressed in a head-to-toe Nike ensemble, sporting a Yonex racket, and her signature spiral curls styled in an up-do, she shoots a commercial for Maybelline.
The July heat is sweltering, but her bright red lipstick stays flawless as she swings through a series of forehands, drawing an ever-growing crowd of onlookers near Bryant Park.
At just 26, Osaka has entered a new phase in her life. After a 15-month break from tennis, marked by the birth of her daughter Shai in July, the four-time Grand Slam champion is returning to the sport.
But her ambitions now extend far beyond tennis.
From fashion collaborations with Louis Vuitton and Nike to leading her own sports management company, Evolve, and a production firm, Hana Kuma, Osaka is crafting a legacy that intertwines athletics, entrepreneurship, and social advocacy.
Reflecting on Her Journey
Osaka’s journey to stardom began with her stunning victory over Serena Williams at the 2018 U.S. Open. That moment not only catapulted her to global fame but also highlighted her resilience amid the intense scrutiny and pressures of professional tennis.
Despite multiple Grand Slam titles and becoming the highest-paid female athlete at one point, Osaka has always maintained a sense of humility and connection to her roots.
“I’ve never thought of myself as famous,” she admits. “When I think of famous people, I think of Beyoncé or Michael Jackson. For me, I love being outside, especially in New York. Everyone here is just living their lives, and that’s one of the biggest reasons I love this city.”
Raised between Japan and the U.S., Osaka embodies a multicultural identity that resonates with a diverse fan base. While she represents Japan in tennis, her Haitian-American heritage and outspoken stance on social issues have made her a global icon.
Osaka’s activism has been front and center, notably during the 2020 U.S. Open when she wore masks honoring victims of racial violence.
A Balancing Act: Motherhood and Tennis
Returning to the tennis court after becoming a mother has not been without its challenges. Though she has yet to regain her dominant form, Osaka’s determination remains unshaken.
“I’ve never been good at losing,” she says candidly, “but I’ve learned that as long as I’m improving, it’s okay. I’m trying to be a lot nicer to myself.”
Osaka’s coach, Wim Fissette, acknowledges that the landscape of tennis has evolved, and the competition is tougher than ever.
However, both he and Osaka are committed to raising her game to new heights as she redefines success in this next chapter of her career.
Beyond the Court: Expanding Her Empire
Osaka’s ventures off the court have flourished as well. Her sports management company, Evolve, represents high-profile tennis players like Nick Kyrgios, while her production company, Hana Kuma, has garnered attention for its focus on diverse storytelling.
Collaborations with luxury brands, including a recent partnership with Nike and Tokyo-based designer Yoon Ahn, highlight her growing influence in the fashion industry.
Despite the demands of her entrepreneurial endeavors, Osaka remains grounded, finding solace in writing and sketching.
“Writing is very liberating for me,” she shares. “It’s become a passion.”
From poetry to short stories, Osaka continues to explore new creative outlets while balancing her roles as an athlete, entrepreneur, and mother.
Looking Forward
As Osaka prepares for the upcoming U.S. Open, she is embracing the evolving nature of her career and personal life. Whether on the court, in a business meeting, or spending time with her daughter, Osaka is proving that her story is far from over.
Naomi Osaka’s enduring appeal lies not just in her powerful serve or fashion sense, but in her ability to navigate the complexities of fame while staying true to herself. As she continues to evolve, the world eagerly watches what this multifaceted star will achieve next.
This article was culled from a publication by WWD,
