Naomi Osaka is in a Grand Slam semifinals for the first time since 2021, and she isn’t only getting attention for what she is doing on the court.
Osaka’s latest on-court accessory at the 2025 US Open has become a major viral sensation: a collection of crystal-encrusted Labubu toys. For each match, Osaka has accessorized her bag with a custom-made Labubu, each one with a tennis-themed name.
While Osaka initially downplayed the craze as “just a one-time thing for the tournament,” her ongoing unveiling of new Labubus for each match has captured the attention of fans and media. The custom dolls are designed by New York artist Kerin Rose Gold, who has also created other crystal accessories for Osaka. This has become a part of Osaka’s return to the top of the sport, and she’s not the only athlete to be spotted with a Labubu.
Let’s dive into this viral toy and why it’s getting attention.
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What is a labubu?
Labubu is a line of collectible plush toys created by Hong Kong illustrator Kaising Lung. It was first introduced in 2015, but gained wider attention in 2019 following a collaboration with Pop Mart. By 2025, Labubu has released over 300 different Labubu figurines, ranging in size and price.
Labubus are part of a series of characters that have gained immense popularity, largely due to their unique and often playful designs that have captured the imagination of collectors worldwide. The figures have distinctive features, including a mischievous grin and spiky teeth.
How much does a labubu cost?
The cost of labubus varies significantly, depending on its rarity and whether it is a limited edition or custom piece.
The most common way to purchase a Labubu is through a blind box. A single blind box typically costs around $12 to $15. Collectors often buy an entire case, which can contain a set number of figures from a series and can range from $80 to $200.
For limited edition and custom-made pieces, the price is usually higher.
Naomi Osaka’s labubu names
It appears Naomi Osaka is carrying Labubus as a fun and unique way to express her personal style on the court. After a prolonged absence from tennis for maternity leave, her decision to accessorize her bag with a new, custom-made figure for each match has become a way to show a more lighthearted and open side of her personality.
Osaka, who is ranked No. 23 in the tournament, has had a different named labubu for each match:
- Billie Jean Bling
- Arthur Flashe
- LaBillieBu
- Althea Glitterson
- Andre Swagassi
Where does Naomi Osaka get her labubus from?
Osaka’s custom dolls are designed by New York artist Kerin Rose Gold, who has also created other crystal accessories for the tennis player.
Rose Gold is a New York-based artist and designer known for her unique and highly sought-after custom creations adorned with crystal embellishments. She founded her brand, “The A-Morir” and has built a reputation for transforming everyday objects and fashion accessories into one-of-a-kind, sparkling works of art.
For Osaka at the US Open, Rose Gold has customized each figure with different colored crystals, adding tennis-themed elements to create a bespoke collection of art pieces for Osaka’s on-court bag.
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