Naomi Osaka made a dramatic entrance at the French Open, wearing a black ceremonial skirt and beaded bodice before revealing a sequined gold playing dress on Court Suzanne-Lenglen. The four-time Grand Slam champion defeated Laura Siegemund in straight sets, but the German player wasn't impressed by the theatrical pre-match routine.

Siegemund criticized the special treatment Osaka received, particularly the extended time allowance for changing outfits. While other players face strict time monitoring, Osaka was given a minute and a half for her costume change. The world No. 47 argued that bigger names receive preferential treatment under tennis rules, creating an uneven playing field.

Osaka defended her approach, saying athletes are in show business and Grand Slam walk-ons represent entertainment opportunities. She admitted concerns about the reflective gold dress potentially blinding officials, noting she brought backup Nike dresses just in case. The Japanese star has built a reputation for elaborate tournament entrances, including veils and parasols at previous majors.

This incident highlights ongoing tensions between tennis tradition and modern athlete branding, as players increasingly use major tournaments as platforms for personal expression beyond just hitting tennis balls.