Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Reuters
Reuters
Business

World number one Osaka signs with Nike

Mar 22, 2019; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Naomi Osaka of Japan serves against Yanina Wickmayer of Belgium (not pictured) in the second round of the Miami Open at Miami Open Tennis Complex. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

TOKYO (Reuters) - World number one Naomi Osaka has agreed a deal with Nike, the sports apparel giant has announced.

The Japanese, who had previously been tied to rival Adidas, will first wear Nike gear at the Stuttgart Grand Prix later this month, the U.S. sportswear maker said on its website.

"I'm proud to become a member of the Nike family and excited about getting involved in all of the opportunities Nike has to offer," said Osaka in the statement.

"Nike has a legendary track record of writing history and I look forward to being a part of those moments for many years to come."

The Japanese has won the last two Grand Slams, having become the first ever Japanese player to win one of the four majors when she overcame Serena Williams at the U.S. Open in September.

"Naomi is an incredible talent to add to our roster and help drive our commitment to inspiring a new generation of female athletes," Nike VP Amy Montagne added in the statement.

"We are thrilled to have her join our team."

Osaka's ascent to the top of the women's game has made her a hot marketable commodity for the world's top brands.

She already has deals with Japanese airline All Nippon Airways, car manufacturer Nissan and watch company Citizen, amongst others.

(Reporting by Jack Tarrant; Editing by Amlan Chakraborty)

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.