Naomi Osaka began her US Open campaign with a confident 6-3, 6-4 win over Belgium's Greet Minnen, but it wasn’t just her tennis that stole the spotlight; her Labubu doll also hogged the limelight. During the post-match on-court interview, she was asked, ' If ther was anything that we don't want to miss'. Holding up the glitzy figurine with pride, Osaka told the crowd,"This is my Labubu. She’s named Billie Jean Bling. Not Billie Jean King.
Not only Labubu, Osaka's new outfit from Nike was also the talk of the town. She walked into the arena with a cropped jacket and a red bubble-hem skirt.
What’s a Labubu?
Labubu is part of a collectable designer toy line that’s been gaining popularity worldwide, especially among fans of urban pop culture. Known for their whimsical, mischievous looks, Labubu figures have become cult favourites and Osaka is now adding her own sparkle to the trend. By naming her Labubu “Billie Jean Bling” likely a tribute to tennis icon Billie Jean King
Osaka sails past Round 1 at US Open 2025?
On court, Osaka was equally sharp. Though she briefly lost a break lead in the first set and trailed 3-4 in the second, the No. 23 seed rallied to win three straight games and wrap up the match in just over an hour. The win marked another strong step in her comeback journey following maternity leave.
Osaka is clearly regaining the form that made her a two-time US Open champion (2018, 2020). Her smooth serving, baseline power, and growing confidence all point to a deeper run in New York — and maybe another Slam to add to her resume.
The road ahead won’t be easy. Next up is American rising star Hailey Baptiste, who’s having a breakout season and will have the home crowd on her side.
