The hidden meaning in Naomi Osaka's Australian Open fashion statement

Naomi Osaka has revealed the hidden meaning behind her iconic jellyfish fashion statement at the Australian Open – but some tennis fans have been left unimpressed. Speaking post match after beating Croatia's Antonia Ruzic in three sets to move into the second round, the two-time champion at Melbourne Park explained to Aussie commentator Jelena Dokic the significance of the butterfly on her white hat and umbrella. It followed Osaka's unforgettable entrance to Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday night, where she was a picture of elegance. 'It has to do with the Australian Open in 2021 which I won... which I guess is a long time ago,' the 16th seed said. Five years ago in the middle of her match against Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, a butterfly flew into Osaka's face as she prepared to serve, before moving down to her ankle. Osaka managed to catch the insect before elegantly releasing it courtside – and later won the women's singles title. On social media, some tennis fans loved Osaka's daring entry ahead of her clash with Ruzic – but others felt it was excessive. 'Beautiful entrance,' said one supporter on X. 'She's bringing something different to the table, and I'm here for it,' posted another. 'Iconic for all the wrong reasons,' posted a third. At her post-match press conference, Osaka confirmed her dynamic look was a collaboration between herself, Nike and fashion designer Robert Wun, who has dressed the likes of Beyoncé, Cardi B and Ariana Grande. 'Nike let me design this one, it's modelled after a jellyfish,' Osaka told reporters. 'I'm just so grateful I get to be able to do the things that I love and it's really beautiful.' 'It's honestly one of my favourite tournaments and to start the year off, it makes me very happy,' the 28-year-old said. 'I think I served pretty well - she (Ruzic) is an amazing player...I'd never played her before and I hope to not see her on the other side of the net again.'