Naomi Osaka has made her Grand Slam appearances as much about fashion and storytelling as tennis. At the 2026 US Open, she turned heads once again with a dramatic look inspired by NBA legend Allen Iverson, blending basketball culture, personal influences and her own tennis identity. It continues a tradition of memorable Grand Slam outfits that have drawn inspiration from everything from Japanese ceremonial dress to marine life. (express fotoweb)
An Allen Iverson Tribute: For her 2026 US Open entrance, Osaka paid homage to Allen Iverson, one of her personal heroes and a major influence on sports fashion. She arrived in a long white skirt paired with a grey hooded robe covered in newspaper clippings about her, creating a dramatic entrance before revealing the basketball inspired outfit underneath. (express fotoweb)
Fashion as Self-Expression: The US Open look was part of Osaka's long-running approach to tennis fashion, where clothing becomes a way to reference culture, identity and people who have influenced her. Her 2026 entrance was also styled by Law Roach, with the dramatic robe created in collaboration with New York label Who Decides War. She followed it with another striking look: a black sheer Jacquemus gown with embroidered details and rounded sunglasses. (express fotoweb)
The Iverson Details: The tribute went beyond the robe. Osaka wore cornrows, a black-and-red headband and an arm sleeve, echoing Iverson's signature basketball style. Her black Nike match outfit also incorporated elements reminiscent of a basketball jersey. Osaka said she admired Iverson for helping athletes express themselves through fashion, while Iverson himself responded warmly to the tribute. (express photoweb)
