Overview
- Osaka lost to Elena Rybakina in the fourth round, falling 6-1, 6-4 on Monday, September 7, and exited the tournament after four matches.
- On September 8 she posted on Threads saying she “idgaf” if critics dislike her and that enduring backlash is worth making the path easier for players who follow.
- Across the fortnight Osaka staged four dramatic walk-on reveals—designs by Who Decides War, Thom Browne, Monse and KidSuper—styled by Law Roach and tied to Nike’s basketball-themed US Open kits.
- Critics and some opponents said the pre-match theatrics risked overshadowing competition and questioned special time allowances for wardrobe reveals, with opponents noting perceived unequal treatment under tournament timing rules.
- The episode links to Osaka’s 2021 mental‑health dispute over media duties and could prompt broader debate about athlete autonomy, sponsor programming and whether the USTA should clarify rules on on‑court entrances and timing.