Naomi Osaka Loses US Open Semifinal, Misses Labubu Plush Final Tribute

Naomi Osaka expressed deep disappointment after her semifinal loss at the U.S. Open dashed her plans to create a final Labubu plush toy modeled after herself. Throughout the tournament, Osaka carried various Labubu dolls named in tribute to tennis legends like Billie Jean King, Althea Gibson, and Arthur Ashe, each attached to her racket bag. She had intended for the final Labubu to feature the green skirt and bow she wore during her previous U.S. Open victories in 2018 and 2020. Osaka described the loss as particularly upsetting because it prevented this special plush toy design from becoming a reality, saying, "Honestly, I’m fine losing, but don’t ask me about this Labubu, man." The plush toys have become a unique and personal symbol for Osaka during her matches at Flushing Meadows. Her emotional reaction highlighted how much the Labubu collection means to her beyond just the competition.