Billy Jean Bling has made way for Arthur Flash.
Naomi Osaka’s “Labubu” game is still going strong at this year’s US Open, as she introduced a second new luxury toy accessory in her tennis bag during her two-round win against Haley Baptist on Thursday.
“Honestly, I’m not really a Lovebu collector. This is more of a one-time thing for the tournament,” Osaka noted after her match. “It kind of started as a joke, so it’s nice that people are enjoying it.”
During her match on Tuesday, the two-time US Open champion sported a purple tennis dress, reminiscent of Serena Williams’ look from 2019. In her first round, she donned a striking red outfit, complemented with matching Lovebu accessories.
“I really wanted to win. I’m trying to focus more on the process rather than the outcome, but I’m definitely happy with the win,” Osaka remarked Tuesday night. “My favorite moment, funny enough, was my little lovebub. I didn’t think anyone would like Billy Jean Bryn, but I’m happy it made people laugh today.”
In a post-match interview on Thursday, Osaka shared, “This is my day lovebu. We decided he was him. His name is Arthur Flash.”
Look out for Round 3.
The day’s upset
No. 9 seed Karen Khachanov faced unexpected defeat after two sets and ultimately lost in a fifth-set tiebreaker to Poland’s World No. 78, Kamil Majchrzak. Khachanov had reached the semi-finals in 2022.
Today’s quote
“Obviously, I think that’s one of the worst things you can say to the majority of white sports or black tennis players.”
– Osaka, regarding comments made by Jelena Ostapenko about Taylor Townsend.
