Naomi Osaka among superstars honoured at Tennis Black List Awards
Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka was among several star-studded names celebrated at the 2025 Tennis Black List Awards.
Japan's Osaka is the first Asian player to hold the top ranking in singles and has won seven WTA Tour-level singles titles, including four majors: two each at the Australian Open and the US Open.
Her impact extends beyond the court, redefining what it means to be a tennis champion by using her voice to broaden the narrative in tennis and opening space for authenticity, vulnerability and activism.
This has culminated in her recognition at this year's edition of the Black List Awards, presented in association with Dante Talent and held during the HSBC Championships at The Queen's Club, London on the 11th of June, supported by the LTA.
She was one of four names to receive the Player award, alongside Taylor Townsend, Madison Keys and Christopher Eubanks, given to individuals in recognition of their contributions both on and off the court.
Tennis Black List is the global celebration of Black and mixed black excellence across the game — spotlighting the unsung, the visionary and the next generation of changemakers.
Taking place in the run up to The Championships at Wimbledon, the Tennis Black List recognises the contributions of individuals and organisations from grassroots level up to the professional game in Britain and internationally.
It follows the example set by the successful and respected Football Black List, created by Leon Mann MBE and Rodney Hinds, and Rugby Black List which have demonstrated the power that celebrating black excellence can achieve in sport.
The event was an opportunity to inspire the next generation in the tennis community, with the commitment shown by the winners on and off the court.
Awards were handed out in ten categories across the evening at the ceremony, with several recipients present at The Queen's Club.
Founders Anne-Marie Batson and Richard Sackey Addo said: 'This movement is about legacy. Tennis Black List is creating space for Black and mixed-black heritage excellence to be seen, honoured and remembered across all areas of tennis. We are building a global legacy that makes space for what is next.'
Launched in 2022; Tennis Black List is the only global platform dedicated to celebrating and documenting Black and mixed-black impact in tennis — from grassroots organisers to elite players. A movement rooted in recognition, legacy, and cultural celebration.
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