Naomi Osaka And Stefanos Tsitsipas Echo Black Lives Matters Campaign In US Open

The unique predicament in this year’s US Open gives several stars a strong avenue to echo relevant issues in society. One of the more vocal figures on the Black Lives Matters movement, Naomi Osaka, gained several companions, including Stefanos Tsitsipas.

As one of the top players in the women’s draw, Osaka’s influence has been one of the biggest in terms of the sport. In the recent report by Forbes, Osaka was noted as the richest female athlete of the year due to her match earnings and endorsements. Known as one of the primary faces of the Japan Olympics, Osaka notably has used her figure to speak up as an athlete.

During last week’s Western & Southern Open, Osaka withdrew from her semi-final match to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake by the Wisconsin police. Throughout the early stages of the tournament, Osaka has already sent a message by wearing a mask with the name Breonna Taylor, a black woman who was fatally shot by the Kentucky Police. In her most recent win, she called the attention of Elijah McClain with his name written on her mask.

“Racism isn't just an American thing. It's all over the world. It affects people literally every day,” Osaka said by way of the US Open website.

To support this movement and powerful message, players were seen wearing a ‘Black Lives Matters’ shirt within the bubble premises, including Stefanos Tsitsipas.

“He didn’t get that from me, but I'm super proud of him,” Osaka added.

The US Open started last August 31 and will continue until September 13. The first two matches have been impressive for Osaka as she’s looking to win her third-round matchup against Marta Kostyuk. For Tsitsipas, he’s won all his matches care of a three-set sweep and is set to face off against Serbian Borna Coric.

“My experience playing in Arthur Ashe for the first time was one of the best. It would be even better with fans, spectators coming to watch. But getting a first glance, a first taste of what it is playing in Ashe is great for me,” Tsitsipas said.

It has been a unique situation for the players as they’re competing behind closed doors. Despite playing in front of empty seats, athletes such as Osaka and Tsitsipas’ voices have been heard across the world with the messages they’re trying to convey.