Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka made a major fashion statement at Arthur Ashe Stadium during her opening-round match at the 2026 US Open. Arriving for her match against Anastasia Zakharova, Osaka debuted a basketball-inspired ensemble created as a direct tribute to Philadelphia 76ers icon Allen Iverson.
Styled by Law Roach and designed by New York label Who Decides War, Osaka’s walkout attire featured a distressed gray hooded cape adorned with newspaper clippings chronicling her career milestones, paired with a floor-length tulle skirt.
On-Court Look: Upon shedding her walkout gown, Osaka revealed an all-black custom Nike outfit reminiscent of a vintage basketball jersey.
Signature Details: Completing the tribute, Osaka styled her hair in Iverson’s signature cornrows while wearing a white headband, arm sleeves, and finger bands.
Channeling ‘The Answer’: Explaining the concept, Osaka noted that Nike’s US Open campaign embraced a basketball theme, prompting her to honor Iverson’s legacy as a cultural trailblazer who revolutionized style in professional sports.
Addressing the homage in post-match interviews, Osaka praised Iverson for shifting how athletes express themselves through style and fashion. The tribute caught the attention of Iverson himself, who responded on Instagram writing, “Wow, what an honor!! BIG FAN can’t wait to meet you”.
Following her headline-making entrance, Osaka went on to secure a hard-fought 7-6, 7-6 victory to advance to the second round.
