Naomi Osaka Calls for Platinum Hair After Carlos Alcaraz’s Buzz Cut Steals Spotlight at US Open 2025
Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion, playfully declared her intent to go platinum blonde after Carlos Alcaraz’s dramatic buzz cut turned heads at the 2025 US Open, which began August 24. Osaka, fresh off a 6-4, 6-3 first-round win over Ekaterina Alexandrova on August 25, jokingly told reporters, “Carlos is out here stealing the hair show? I’m thinking platinum next!” (*Tennis.com*, August 26, 2025). Her lighthearted comment, sparked by Alcaraz’s viral new look, has fans buzzing about a potential style shake-up as she aims for a deep run at Flushing Meadows.
Osaka’s Playful Reaction to Alcaraz’s Haircut
Alcaraz’s close-cropped buzz cut, unveiled during practice on August 24, drew widespread attention, with fans and players like Frances Tiafoe calling it “horrible” yet “aerodynamic” (*Hindustan Times*, August 26, 2025). Alcaraz, who explained the cut stemmed from a botched blonde dye job (*Daily Mail Online*), leaned into the buzz after his 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 win over Reilly Opelka, asking the crowd, “Do you like the new haircut?” to cheers (*TheTennisLetter*). Osaka, known for her own bold style choices—like her colorful braids at the 2024 Tokyo Games—jumped into the conversation, saying, “I’ve done a lot with my hair, but platinum? That’d be a vibe. Carlos is inspiring me!” (*Tennis.com*). Fans on X amplified the hype, with one post exclaiming, “Naomi going platinum because of Alcaraz? Iconic!” (@TennisFanUSA, August 26, 2025).
Osaka’s US Open Campaign and Context
Osaka’s first-round victory, her first US Open win since 2022, showcased her return to form after a 15-month maternity break and a 2024 season hampered by a back injury (*USOpen.org*). With 22 winners and a 78% first-serve rate against Alexandrova, she faces a second-round clash with Karolina Pliskova, with a potential Coco Gauff fourth-round matchup looming (*CBSSports.com*). Her playful hair comment reflects her relaxed mindset, bolstered by new coach Patrick Mouratoglou, who previously guided Serena Williams (*Tennis.com*). Alcaraz, meanwhile, advances to face Mattia Bellucci, aiming to reclaim his 2022 title with a 54-10 season record (*India Today*).