Sports Illustrated’s 2025 Sportsperson of the Year Osaka received praise for her activism, especially when she was vying for the US Open title…
Naomi Osaka, who has emerged as one of the most influential figures in sports in recent years, was named Sports Illustrated’s 2025 Sportsperson of the Year, a recognition that highlights her extraordinary achievements on and off the tennis court. While her athleticism and talent have long been undeniable, it is her activism, particularly during key moments in her career, that has drawn widespread admiration and set her apart in the world of professional sports.
Osaka’s activism became particularly prominent during her run for the 2020 US Open title, when she used her platform to address racial injustice and social inequality. At that time, the Black Lives Matter movement had gained significant momentum in the United States following the murder of George Floyd, and Osaka seized the opportunity to bring attention to these issues in a unique and powerful way.
Before each of her matches at the 2020 US Open, Osaka wore a different mask bearing the name of a Black victim of police violence, such as Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and George Floyd. Her gesture transcended mere symbolism, acting as a constant reminder to both the tennis world and the broader public of the racial disparities that persist in American society. By using her visibility as one of the world’s top athletes, she made it impossible for people to ignore the pressing issues of racial inequality.
Her actions were particularly impactful considering the setting—one of the most prestigious events in tennis, the US Open, typically a stage for athletic excellence, now became a platform for social change. Osaka’s decision to use her athletic fame for activism was not without controversy. Some criticized her for bringing politics into the sports world, but Osaka stood firm in her belief that her platform was one that could amplify marginalized voices. In her interviews, she was clear: “I’m not here to be a role model, I’m here to speak up.”
Osaka’s advocacy didn’t stop at the US Open. She continued to use her platform in the subsequent years, speaking out on issues ranging from racial justice to mental health. Her openness about her own struggles with anxiety and depression further strengthened her position as a leader in sports activism, showing that athletes could be more than just competitors—they could also be advocates for societal change.
When Osaka clinched her second US Open title in 2020, defeating Victoria Azarenka in a thrilling final, the victory was celebrated not only for her incredible talent and determination on the court but also for the powerful message she had sent throughout the tournament. Her work in 2020 showed that success in sports could be coupled with a sense of responsibility toward the greater good. She made it clear that athletes could—and should—use their voices to raise awareness and demand change in society.
By 2025, Osaka’s activism had expanded to a variety of social causes, and her influence had grown beyond the boundaries of tennis. Her recognition as Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year reflects not just her athletic achievements but also her continued dedication to creating a more just and equitable world. Through her courage, Osaka has inspired a new generation of athletes who understand that the power of sport lies not only in winning titles but in using one’s platform to inspire change and challenge the status quo.
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