US Open 2025: Naomi Osaka's Labubu-inspired run to a first major quarter-final since becoming a mother

Naomi Osaka has had a tournament to remember at the 2025 US Open.

The Japanese tennis star is into the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows for the third time in her career, where on the two previous occasions she was crowned champion in New York City.

Osaka’s apparel has drawn as many plaudits as her playing style, kitted out in custom crystal-covered outfits distinguishable for day and night sessions. Then there is the ‘Labubu’, the viral plush toy which the 27-year-old has taken to the next level.

The former world number one has brought out a different, crystal Labubu for every match she has played in the women’s singles draw, all of them taking a humorous name dedicated to an American tennis icon.

They have been ‘Billie Jean Bling’ (named after Billie Jean King), ‘Arthur Flashe’ (Arthur Ashe), ‘LeBillieBu’ (also for King) and ‘Althea Glitterson’ (Althea Gibson).

All eyes will be on the four-time Grand Slam champion for her final eight meeting with two-time semi-finalist Karolína Muchová to see what Labubu Osaka has in store, in pursuit of a first major semi-final since the 2021 Australian Open – which she won.

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