Osaka Paid Tribute To Allen Iverson As “The Answer,” Bringing His Iconic Style To The U.S. Open Stage
Naomi Osaka turned her first walk onto Arthur Ashe Stadium at the 2026 U.S. Open into a tribute to one of the most influential athletes in sports culture: Allen Iverson.
The two-time U.S. Open champion arrived Monday night for her first-round match against Anastasia Zakharova wearing a gray distressed hooded piece covered with newspaper clippings and images from her career, paired with a flowing white tulle skirt.
But once Osaka removed the hood, the Iverson inspiration became unmistakable.
Her hair was styled in cornrows beneath a headband, and her black playing outfit featured contrasting arm sleeves — details closely associated with Iverson during his years with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Osaka Honors a Sports Fashion Trailblazer
Osaka had already made clear that Iverson was part of her inspiration heading into the tournament.
“For me, he’s a trailblazer,” Osaka said before the U.S. Open, pointing to the way Iverson changed how professional athletes dressed and expressed themselves beyond competition.
Iverson’s oversized clothing, tattoos, cornrows and unapologetic personal style became part of his cultural impact during an NBA career that included the 2001 MVP award and ultimately induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Osaka’s tribute went beyond simply recreating his appearance.
The custom look was designed by Who Decides War, with designers Téla D’Amore and Ev Bravado working alongside stylist Law Roach. Vogue reported that the team had roughly 30 hours to create the outfit, which incorporated French terry, tulle and sewn-in newspaper clippings documenting moments from Osaka’s career.
Osaka’s social media presentation of the outfit carried another Iverson reference: “The Answer,” the basketball star’s longtime nickname.
Iverson noticed.
“Wow, what a honor!! BIG FAN can’t wait to meet you,” he wrote in response to Osaka’s tribute.
Osaka Backs Up the Look With an Opening-Round Win
The entrance did not overshadow Osaka’s night on the court.
The No. 13 seed defeated Zakharova 7-6 (6), 7-6 (3) in a match that stretched past midnight, surviving two tiebreaks to advance to the second round.
She will next face Czech player Kateřina Siniaková as Osaka continues her pursuit of a third U.S. Open championship. She previously won the tournament in 2018 and 2020.
Fashion has always been part of Osaka’s Grand Slam presence. Her previous tournament looks have drawn from Japanese culture and other personal influences, making the walk onto the court nearly as anticipated as the match itself.
