US Open 2026: Naomi Osaka pays homage to NBA star Allen Iverson with New York outfit - BBC
Tennis star Naomi Osaka debuted a basketball-inspired outfit at the 2026 US Open, paying tribute to NBA legend Allen Iverson. Despite the fashion statement, she struggled on the court before securing a win against Anastasia Zakharova.
Why it matters
Osaka's influence as a cultural icon continues to bridge the gap between professional sports, fashion, and social commentary.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Naomi Osaka wore a red-and-black headband and elbow sleeves similar to those donned by former Philadelphia 76ers star Allen Iverson
BBC Sport tennis news reporter Published 1 September 2026 The spectacular jellyfish outfit at the Australian Open. A sparkly Eiffel Tower-inspired golden dress at the French Open. The elegant all-white Japanese kimono at Wimbledon.
Naomi Osaka has proved she knows how to make a grand entrance at the Grand Slams - and her arrival at this year's US Open was always going to turn more heads.
The four-time major champion was draped in a hooded white gown - with cuttings of newspaper headlines about her career highlights sewn in - when she walked out for her first-round match against Russia's Anastasia Zakharova in New York.
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