Tennis star Naomi Osaka has hit out at critics who told her to maintain her ‘innocent image’ and to be a ‘role model’ after she posted pictures of herself in a bikini.

The 22 year-old has remained active on social media during lockdown and posted several images of herself in a bikini enjoying the sun at her Florida home, as well as videos returning to training.

But the two-time Grand Slam champion has received hateful comments and has now hit back and questioned why people think they can comment on what she wears.

She wrote on Twitter: “I just wanna say it’s creeping me out how many people are commenting @ me to maintain my “innocent image” and “don’t try to be someone your not”. You don’t know me, I’m 22, I wear swimsuits to the pool. Why do you feel like you can comment on what I can wear?"

One user said: “Someone is growing up,” as another added: “I don't get why you would post half naked pics of yourself. Have some class... you don't need to do this."

Another said: “She probably needs a boyfriend, but doesn't want the press to say something nasty about it.”

Another user wrote: “You once [said] after a match that you wanted to be a good role model for young[sters]. So keep up with that spirit.”

One user added: “Because you post something and Twitter like any social media is made to communicate even if you might not like what is communicated. As long is done politely. And I do agree the last 2 pics were just not elegant.”

But fans had her back and supported her comments as one wrote: “@naomiosaka, back-to-back grand slam QUEEN and highest earning female athlete in endorsement income in 2020 and these fools tryna comment on what she posts and wears?? come off it losers.”

Another added: “I’m so over the double standards society place on women. She literally uploaded a photo in a swimsuit showing off her sneakers. What’s even worse is that it’s mostly men that have something negative to say in the comments.”