With the US Open 2025 just around the corner, all eyes are on World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka as she prepares to defend her title at Flushing Meadows. Scheduled to begin on August 25, this Grand Slam event is one of the most anticipated on the tennis calendar. And now, Nike has officially unveiled the outfits Sabalenka will wear during her campaign in New York — but the reception has been far from unanimous.
The Belarusian star will step onto the court in two distinct Nike designs, tailored for different times of day. For her evening matches under the bright lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium, Sabalenka will sport a sleek black dress featuring a subtle side cut near the waist. The outfit is paired with bold orange sneakers and black socks, creating a striking contrast perfect for high-energy night sessions. For her daytime encounters, she will switch to a more understated white dress, trimmed with black accents for a touch of sharpness.
These two options—one edgy and dramatic, the other clean and classic—certainly cover a range of aesthetics. However, despite the overall stylish appearance, fan response to the reveal has been mixed. Many supporters have expressed disappointment that Sabalenka, despite her elite status and incredible year on tour, has yet again not received a custom-designed kit from Nike.
Reactions across social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) reflect a growing frustration among fans. Some have questioned why the world’s top-ranked female player is still being outfitted with what appears to be standard, mass-produced designs. “She’s the defending champion, the current No. 1 — she should have something unique,” one user wrote. Another fan commented bluntly, “Nike never gives her anything special.”
This isn’t the first time that conversations around Sabalenka’s outfits have sparked debate. Over the years, her Nike kits have often been seen as repetitive or uninspired, especially when compared to the custom outfits made for other players, such as Serena Williams in the past or Naomi Osaka during her rise to stardom. Fans have consistently called for more recognition through styling and design that matches Sabalenka’s commanding presence on court.
That said, the two outfits for this year’s US Open do bring a polished and professional look to Sabalenka’s wardrobe. The black dress, in particular, with its subtle waist cut and bold color coordination, gives off an air of strength and elegance. Meanwhile, the white dress offers a fresh and composed look that fits well with daytime play in the summer heat of New York.
As the tournament approaches, what matters most, of course, is how Sabalenka performs. The reigning champion enters the final Grand Slam of the season as one of the favorites, and if her 2025 campaign mirrors her previous dominance, her on-court prowess will likely overshadow any controversy surrounding her outfit.
Still, the ongoing conversation highlights a broader issue in sports fashion: whether major brands like Nike are doing enough to reflect and support their top athletes through design. For now, fans are hoping that Sabalenka’s talent and grit will shine brighter than any missed opportunity in fabric.