Naomi Osaka made a spectacular entrance at the Australian Open, leaving spectators in the Rod Laver Arena astonished before her first-round match against Croatia's Antonia Ruzic had even begun, with Tim Henman left 'speechless'.
The former world No 1 stepped onto court sporting an elaborate ensemble inspired by jellyfish, an idea that came to her whilst reading with her daughter.
The Japanese star's striking outfit comprised a wide-brimmed hat complete with flowing veil, a coordinating umbrella, flared trousers, and a teal jacket paired with a matching vest.
Designer Robert Wun was responsible for bringing Osaka's creative vision to life for her tournament opener.
Former British No 1 Laura Robson was effusive in her praise for the dramatic look.
"It's a vibe," she declared. "I love it, this is a moment."
Henman, meanwhile, found himself at a loss for words when asked for his assessment of Osaka's attire.
Naomi Osaka pictured in her unique outfit
|GETTY
"I am not qualified to comment," the former British star initially responded, before conceding: "Wow, I am speechless. It's pretty cool. Does it put pressure on your performance?"
The outfit certainly captured attention throughout the arena, with onlookers transfixed by the four-time Grand Slam champion's bold fashion statement ahead of her opening contest.
Osaka revealed the thinking behind her distinctive entrance in an interview with Vogue, explaining her desire to craft memorable moments on her own terms.
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Five facts for tennis fans | GETTY/PA"When I look back at the players who came before me, I think about how those moments—those looks—have become memories that live forever," she said.
"So much of the time, other people get to write our stories for us.
"This felt like a moment where I could write a little bit of my own."
Robert Wun described the collaboration as a rewarding creative experience.
"Naomi and Martin came into it with a great understanding of what my world already looks like," the designer explained.
"As a fan, I already understood her as an athlete, but being able to share this creative moment has been incredibly special."
Naomi Osaka was able to book her spot in the next round of the Australian Open
|GETTY
The fashion spectacle was not the only drama, however, as technical difficulties brought proceedings to a halt during the second set.
A fault with the net lights caused a significant interruption, with both Osaka and Ruzic declining to resume play until the issue was resolved.
TNT Sports commentator Naomi Broady noted: "Both players understandably saying they would rather not play with the lights.
"They were turned on before the point began but I don't think either player had noticed until the point had finished."
Despite the disruption, Osaka secured victory with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 scoreline, setting up a second-round encounter with Romania's Sorana Cîrstea on Thursday.