Australian Open 2019: Nissin apologises to Naomi Osaka over ‘whitewashed’ cartoon

Sign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing

Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news

Please enter a valid email address

Please enter a valid email address

SIGN UP

I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy

Naomi Osaka revealed sponsor Nissin has apologised to her over a cartoon depiction that sparked accusations of whitewashing.

An anime-style drawing of the 21-year-old US Open champion, who has a Japanese mother and Haitian father, with pale skin and brown hair was used in an advert for the noodle company that has since been pulled.

Speaking after reaching the Australian Open final, Osaka said: “I’ve talked to them. They’ve apologised. For me, it’s obvious, I’m tan.

“I don’t think they did it on purpose to be whitewashing or anything. But I definitely think that the next time they try to portray me or something, I feel like they should talk to me about it.”

It is the second time a cartoon featuring Osaka has caused controversy after the Herald Sun faced fierce criticism for its depiction of both the Japanese player and Serena Williams following the US Open final last September.

The drawing featured Williams having a tantrum while a blonde-haired Osaka talked to the umpire.

PA