Naomi Osaka is already a legend. At just 25 years old, she’s a Grand Slam Champion…four times over. She’s also an entrepreneur, a fashion lover, a philanthropist, and an advocate. Be it as the first Asian tennis player to hold the number one ranking, or as an advocate for mental health, Osaka knows how to make waves.
Currently ranked as the number two player in the world, the Japanese-Haitian-American has handled the global athletic stage with dignity and humility. Amid making lists like Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” and earning titles like Sports Illustrated’s “Sportsperson of the Year,” she remains dedicated to setting the standard for societal activism, sportsmanship, and self-care. And you thought your plate was full.
“My schedule can get pretty hectic, so I always value the holiday season as a time where things slow down and family can come together,” Osaka says. “It’s so important to take time to reset and share quality time with loved ones. It grounds me no matter how crazy life can get.”
Out-of-office and off the court, Osaka says she loves to help out in the kitchen during the holidays. And of course, she loves giving out presents. “I love searching for the perfect gift for each of my loved ones,” she says. “Seeing the smile on people’s faces when they open a gift that you’ve picked out specifically for them is priceless.”
Here, find Osaka’s handbook for holiday gifting.
What’s your go-to holiday gift?
I love crystals, and they make for great gifts.
Do you have a favorite under-$50 gift?
KINLÒ’s Self-Care Kit. It’s a great reminder to take some time to yourself and give your skin the TLC it deserves. It includes hydrating and soothing products like the Hydrating Facial Oil and Golden Mist, along with the Golden Renewal Candle that has the most relaxing aroma. I love lighting it to set the tone for some mindfulness and self-care after a long day.
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
Anything heartfelt. I love when a gift feels really sincere, and you can tell that someone put thought into it.
Best gift that can be found on Amazon?
Levi’s Sunglasses. Amazon has a great selection of styles, so there is something for everybody!
What’s the number one thing on your wish list this year?
The number one thing on my wish list this year would have to be Overwatch 2. I can’t wait to play a ton during off-season.
Ideal gift in a last-minute scenario?
Gift cards are a great last-minute gift! I love that they are easy to find and customize. My go-to gift cards are usually spa treatments or someone’s favorite restaurant.
What’s a gift you always have on-hand, just in case?
I always keep candles on-hand as emergency gifts. Everyone loves a candle, so you can never go wrong with that.
Anything for kids?
My new book, “The Way Champs Play”! It’s all about inspiring kids to chase their dreams and believe in themselves. This one is extra special to me too, because a portion of proceeds go to Play Academy with Naomi Osaka.
How about for guys?
Guys can be so hard to shop for, but I think a cool pair of shoes is one of my favorite gifts to give the men in my life. I think it’s fun to customize a pair of Nike’s based on who you’re gifting. They’re easy, because once you know their shoe size, you know they will fit.
Considering all possibilities, what would your dream gift be?
I love experiences as gifts, so having someone plan a vacation for me would be a dream. With my busy schedule, I would love to go somewhere tropical to just relax.
What would you gift a fellow tennis player?
I know how fatigued and tense muscles can get as a tennis player, so I would give the Hyperice Hypervolt Massage Gun. It’s been a lifesaver for me when I’m on the go or don’t have time to get a massage. It’s an easy, portable solution that every tennis player can appreciate.
What about for your gym-loving bestie or workout buddy?
A set of Beats headphones are a great gift for any gym lovers out there. When I go to the gym, I need to lock in and stay focused, so having the noise-canceling headphones with a killer playlist is a must.
What’s an item you own and love that would make a great stocking stuffer?
I’ve recently been loving the LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask. I apply it at night and when I wake up. My lips are super moisturized.
Associate Fashion Commerce Editor
Meg Donohue is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Her passions include spicy foods, sustainability, and the Y2K remake of Charlie’s Angels. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.
