Naomi Osaka pays homage to Allen Iverson with cornrows and hoodie at US Open

Naomi Osaka made a fashion statement at the US Open, debuting a gray hooded robe with newspaper prints before unveiling a black outfit and cornrows reminiscent of Allen Iverson’s iconic look. The Japanese tennis star faced Anastasia Zakharova in the first round at Arthur Ashe Stadium, emerging from the tunnel in a long white skirt and the hooded coat. She explained that the attire honored Iverson, aligning with Nike’s basketball-focused theme for the event following the New York Knicks’ recent NBA championship.

Osaka also wore a shirt featuring Iverson’s image during media day and praised his influence on sports fashion. Iverson later posted on Instagram, calling the tribute an honor and saying he was a big fan. The gesture linked tennis, basketball culture, and the Knicks’ colors, which also appeared in Aryna Sabalenka’s orange dress.