Osaka makes Labubu charms a US Open staple en route to semis

Naomi Osaka has turned a matchday accessory into a recurring headline at the 2025 U.S. Open, debuting a rotating cast of bedazzled Labubu plush charms as she advanced to the semifinals at Flushing Meadows. The former world number one has attached a different custom, crystal-studded Labubu to her racket bag or presented one on court after each win, including a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Coco Gauff that sent her into the latter stages of the tournament.

Osaka introduced the first of the series in her opening match, unfurling a red-and-orange, jewel-encrusted figure she called Billie Jean Bling during an on-court interview. After a second-round victory, she produced Arthur Flashe, a purple-and-blue version she described as her day Labubu. She later unveiled LaBillieBu, modeled after Billie Jean King and reportedly created after fans suggested King wanted one, and Althea Glitterson, a silver Labubu named in tribute to Althea Gibson. Following her quarterfinal win she displayed Andre Swagassi, a sparkly nod to Andre Agassi. Osaka quipped about the first doll, This is my Labubu. Shes named Billie Jean Bling, not Billie Jean King, and introduced Althea Glitterson at a postmatch news...