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Naomi Osaka reveals inspiration behind Jellyfish outfit at Australian Open 2026
Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images

Naomi Osaka has revealed the personal inspiration behind her striking jellyfish-inspired outfit at the 2026 Australian Open, saying the look stemmed from a moment with her two-year-old daughter, Shai .

The four-time Grand Slam champion’s oceanic attire made waves before her first-round match and reflected her evolving identity as both a tennis star and a mother.

Osaka’s fashion-forward entrance drew widespread attention in Melbourne, blending sport, style, and personal meaning in a way that went beyond typical tennis attire.


Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Naomi Osaka explains the jellyfish inspiration from daughter Shai

Osaka said her daughter’s excitement helped shape the dramatic visual theme. “There was an image of a jellyfish, and when I showed it to her [Shai] she got so excited.”

The outfit combined a tie-dye turquoise and green palette with flowing, jellyfish-like tendrils, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers that echoed marine elegance.

Osaka worked with designer Robert Wun and Nike to translate the underwater imagery into a look that was both expressive and symbolic.

The moment underscored how motherhood has influenced Osaka’s perspective on fashion and tennis, as she embraced attire that carries emotional significance as well as aesthetic impact.

Naomi Osaka’s Australian Open 2026 first-round performance in the Jellyfish outfit

On court, Osaka backed up her striking entrance with a gritty performance against Antonia Ruzic. The former world No.1 overcame initial resistance from the Croatian opponent to claim a 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 victory in the first round at Rod Laver Arena, progressing into the second round of the women’s singles draw.

The match featured momentum shifts, with Osaka rebounding after dropping the second set to close out the win in a competitive third set.

Her resilience under pressure highlighted the competitive spirit she has maintained throughout her career, even as her fashion moment captured more headlines than her tennis at times.

Next up, Osaka is scheduled to face Sorana Cirstea in the second round as she looks to build on her victory and keep her Australian Open campaign on track.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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