Osaka to debut new racket co-designed by Japanese artist Takashi Murakami at US Open

Saturday, 14 August 2021 at 06:00

Naomi Osaka is set to debut a new racket at this summer's US Open, after collaborating with famous Japanese artist Takashi Murakami to design the limited-edition Yonex racket and accompanying bag.

The famed Yonex EZONE racket has been redesigned to feature Murakami’s signature cherry blossom motif atop a white base. Naomi’s name is printed on the throat of the racket, alongside kawaii silhouettes of a bear and kangaroo.

“Takashi is one of my favorite artists and we started messaging each other on Instagram a couple of years ago," revealed Osaka. "We were both talking about something cool to work on together, so I suggested that we collaborate on my racket for the U.S. Open… and here we are!”

Read also

2021 US Open Prize Money WTA and ATP with $38,720,000 on offer

The design incorporates a bit from both individuals, assimilating Murakami's cherry blossom flower with Osaka's bear. However, these rackets will not be for sale but an exclusive number will be auctioned off in support of the athlete’s charity, Play Academy with Naomi Osaka.

NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ

@naomiosaka

·Follow

Introducing the Naomi Osaka x Takashi Murakami EZONE Racquet 🌸🐻💕 so happy with this one, was always an admirer of @takashipom so to be able to collaborate together is really a dream. Infinite thank you’s to @yonex_tennis because this wouldn’t have come to life without them ❤️