Naomi Osaka hit the ground running during the first round of the U.S. Open in New York City on Tuesday, winning the match against Greet Minnen of Belgium while wearing her own version of the Nike GP Challenge 1 tennis shoe, which is available to shop on nike.com.
It was a day of bold color for the tennis star. On her feet, her quick movements were supported by the Nike GP Challenge 1 “Naomi Osaka” sneakers, which feature a Picante Red/Bright Crimson/Dark Team Red/Black colorway. A design of red roses nodded to Osaka’s ongoing floral theme she’s showcased throughout several tournaments.
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The $170 shoes are equipped with Air Zoom units at the forefoot and heel as well as a midfoot plastic plate and webbing surrounding the eyestays, which help to contain side-to-side movements. Extra rubber, particularly near the big toe, helps with durability, and high-abrasion rubber in the forefoot helps with durability and traction. The heel is engineered to support rocker-like movements, which would encompass pulling back to serve.
The performance-ready sneakers accompanied a custom tennis kit also provided by Nike. Showcasing the same right red hue, Osaka made a fashion statement in a sequined top and a bubble skirt. She maintained the floral theme with sparkling sculptural rose clips affixed to her braids. This aligned with her shoes and matched the Labubu she carried, which is named “Billie Jean Bling,” as the athlete explained in an interview following the match.
Next up, Osaka, who is representing Japan, will compete against Hailey Baptiste of the U.S. on Thursday. Osaka’s journey back to tennis after becoming a mother is documented in the Tubi series “Naomi Osaka: The Second Set,” which released on Sunday.
