Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka made a striking entrance at Wimbledon on Monday, June 29, 2026, wearing a custom all-white kimono robe on Court 3 before her first-round match against Elsa Jacquemot.
The robe featured long sleeves, lace details, and intricate embroidery.
Underneath, Osaka wore a tiered Nike dress with seven 3-D flowers inspired by Kirigami, a traditional Japanese paper art.
The $185 dress sold out online within hours of its release.
Reactions and Commentary
Broadcast commentators and fans alike were captivated by the outfit.
BBC's Alicia Molik noted the historical elements in the modern athletic wear, saying, "It's something that we've been waiting for all day, right, what Naomi Osaka is going to appear in at Wimbledon.
A bit of inspiration from, perhaps, a bygone era as well."
Osaka kept the robe on during pre-match instructions but removed it before warmups. The fashion reveal had been highly anticipated, with many asking about her plans.
"Literally everyone keeps asking me that and I've never thought of the color white being a restriction," Osaka said.
"I feel like there's so many different patterns, fabrics, textures that you can use."
Her creative entrances are not new; she has previously worn large hats and parasols at the Australian Open and glittery jackets at Roland Garros.
Despite some criticism, tournament officials had no objections.
All England Club CEO Sally Bolton stated, "We're very relaxed so long as it meets the all-white dress code."
BBC commentator Kat Downes described the moment as "the arrival of the fashion queen of Wimbledon," noting the Japanese inspiration.
Molik added observations on the silhouette, highlighting the layers and billowing sleeves.
Osaka addressed the curiosity around her wardrobe, saying she views the all-white rule as an opportunity.
"I've never really even thought of it like it's something that hinders me," she said. "But I'm happy to know you think it's a fashion show."
The dress's rapid sellout amazed Osaka, who posted on Threads: "You guys selling out my Wimby dress before I even had the opportunity to wear it on court is really gagging me.
Okay fashionistas, I see you!"
