Naomi Osaka opened her 2026 U.S. Open campaign with a striking fashion statement, wearing a custom “Who Decides War” tulle gown as she secured a hard-fought victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The 28-year-old tennis star defeated Russia’s Anastasia Zakharova 7-6 (6), 7-6 (3) in a match that extended past midnight on the transition from Monday to Tuesday.

Osaka’s outfit, designed by stylist Law Roach, featured a hooded top embedded with newspaper clippings chronicling key moments from her career. The ensemble paid tribute to former NBA star Allen Iverson, a source of inspiration for Osaka's look. She styled her hair in cornrows pulled into a bun and donned a black-on-black Nike kit that resembled a vintage basketball jersey, complete with a metallic skirt that revealed a basket-like texture underneath.

The match itself was tightly contested, with Zakharova pushing Osaka to tiebreakers in both sets. Osaka, seeded 13th, demonstrated composure throughout, notably converting her third set point in the first set. After losing the initial point in the second-set tiebreaker, she responded with a powerful 121 mph ace that ignited a 5-0 run, ultimately closing out the match with another serve clocking at 122 mph.

Speaking during the on-court interview, Osaka acknowledged the challenge and expressed gratitude to the late-night audience. “I would say it took everything,” she said. “I’m just really grateful to play on this court again.” She explained that her outfit was a nod to Iverson’s influence on fashion within sports, emphasizing her desire to express herself through clothing. “Nike said ‘basketball,’ so I said, ‘OK, you want basketball, I’ll give you basketball,’” Osaka remarked.

Iverson, an 11-time NBA All-Star and four-time scoring champion, responded to Osaka’s tribute on social media, calling it “an honor” and expressing enthusiasm about meeting her.

Osaka indicated she plans to continue showcasing distinctive looks throughout the tournament, underscoring her commitment to blending athletic performance with personal style. “For me, he’s a trailblazer,” she said of Iverson last week. “He’s shifted the way NBA players dress and the whole conversation around clothes in sports. I look up to him a lot in that regard.”