Naomi Osaka reveals the Labubu she planned to unveil in US Open final after losing to Anisimova in semis

Naomi Osaka revealed that she had a special Labubu planned for the US Open final, a quirky tradition she has embraced throughout the tournament. The four-time Grand Slam champion has been delighting fans by showcasing different Labubu figures during her matches, turning it into a signature ritual that blends her love for collectibles with her on-court presence. Although her run ended in the semifinals against Amanda Anisimova, a devastated Osaka admitted she had saved one particular Labubu to debut on championship night. The Japanese star said she would’ve had a Labubu modeled after herself.



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Anisimova fought back from a set down to overcome four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka 6-7(4), 7-6(3), 6-3 on Thursday, booking her spot in the US Open final. The 24-year-old American will now face defending champion Aryna Sabalenka as she chases her first major title. Two-time US Open champion Osaka, competing in her first Grand Slam semi-final since 2021, tried her best, but couldn't continue her winning run.

Osaka revealed her fifth Labubu collectible, Andre Swagassi, naming it after legendary Andre Agassi, after reaching the US Open semifinals Wednesday night. When asked by a journo in the post-match presser, 'What would’ve been the next Labubu?', a grim-faced Osaka replied: "Don’t make me cry man. The most devastating question."

"I want to make one of myself in my last year's outfit and it was the green one and it would have the bow," said Osaka, adding, "I am sick about it, oh it's the worst thing. Honestly, I am fine losing but don't ask me about this Labubu. But yeah, it would have been me."

Osaka gave special names to her Labubus, each honoring trailblazers in tennis. First one was called Arthur Flash, paying tribute to Arthur Ashe, the only Black man to win singles titles at Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open. Another, Billie Jean Bling, celebrated Billie Jean King, the American legend and 39-time Grand Slam champion. A third, Althea Glitterson, was inspired by Althea Gibson, who broke barriers as the first Black woman to win a Grand Slam title in 1956. Osaka’s fourth Labubu also honored King, this time featuring her trademark oversized glasses.