Beyond the Score

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During her opening match at the Australian Open tennis tournament, Naomi Osaka garnered significant attention by appearing on the court in an elongated, free-flowing ensemble, complemented by a bespoke headpiece and sunshade. This attire drew inspiration from a jellyfish narrative she had shared with her child. Developed in collaboration with the athletic apparel company Nike and fashion creator Robert Wun, this look solidified the four-time Grand Slam victor Osaka’s standing as a leading figure renowned for her keen sartorial sense within the athletic domain.

The reception to Osaka’s attire, which provoked both commendation and critique, prompted a reflection on the convergence points between athletics and haute couture. What reciprocal influences do these two distinct realms exert, and are they progressively forging stronger connections?

Sheena Butler-Young, a chief reporter for the fashion sector’s news platform, The Business of Fashion, conveys to Sophia Hartley her conviction that the two sectors have reached an unprecedented level of congruity.

Melissa Anglesea serves as the artistic director for Suzi Wong, a UK-based athletic wear firm responsible for crafting bespoke garments for numerous prominent figures in boxing, such as Tyson Fury and Amir Khan. She elucidates the methodology of the creative journey when engaging with the planet’s elite pugilists.

From Monday through Friday, ‘More than the Score’ presents narratives extending past the immediate results, encompassing the entire global athletic landscape. Covering events from the Winter Games to the Super Bowl, the Australian Grand Slam to the Diamond League circuit, and disciplines ranging from netball to Formula 1 racing. Our programming features discussions with remarkable sports personalities such as Ivorian icon Yaya Toure, internationally competing boxer Ellie Bouttell, and champion cyclist Harrie Lavreysen, alongside insights from the professionals operating backstage – from the officials managing VAR to the trainers maintaining competitors at optimal condition. Furthermore, we include the specialized knowledge of the BBC’s leading correspondents, who offer perspectives gathered from many years of reporting on sports across various tiers. Should you possess personal viewpoints concerning the subjects we explore, we encourage you to share them. Reach out via email at morethanthescore@bbc.co.uk, or send us a WhatsApp message at 0044 800 032 0470. Additional details, including our data protection statement, are accessible on our web portal: www.bbcworldservice.com/morethanthescore

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