Naomi Osaka opened her 2026 U.S. Open campaign with both a victory and a tribute to NBA legend Allen Iverson.
The two-time U.S. Open champion defeated Anastasia Zakharova 7-6 (6), 7-6 (3) in a late-night first-round match at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Afterward, Osaka acknowledged how demanding the contest had been.
“I would say it took everything,” Osaka said. “I have no idea what time it is, so thanks for staying. I’m sure it’s really late. I’m just really grateful to play on this court again.”
Osaka also attracted attention before the match with a custom Who Decides War outfit styled by Law Roach.
The look included a hooded top featuring newspaper clippings from memorable moments in her career, along with a tulle gown and basketball-inspired elements.
The 28-year-old revealed that Iverson was the inspiration behind the outfit.
“It’s my tribute to Iverson,” Osaka said. “I really like him a lot. Nike said ‘basketball.’ So I said, ‘OK, you want basketball, I’ll give you basketball.’
“I love expressing myself through clothes. I don’t like talking that much, I tell people. I’m glad you guys appreciate it and I’ll see you in the next round.”
Iverson had already responded positively after learning about Osaka’s admiration for him.
“Wow, what an honor!! BIG FAN can’t wait to meet you,” Iverson wrote on Instagram.
Osaka later explained why the former NBA MVP has influenced her beyond basketball.
“For me, he’s a trailblazer,” Osaka said. “I think he’s also someone that I look up to a lot because he’s kind of like doing a lot in fashion, whether it’s on purpose or not.
“But he’s shifted the way that NBA players dress and I also think the whole conversation around clothes in sports. Also just expressing yourself through style, I feel like he’s someone I look up to in that regard.”
