Naomi Osaka began her U.S. Open campaign in New York with a sartorial tribute to NBA legend Allen Iverson, sporting a custom hoodie and cornrows hairstyle. The 13th seed secured her advancement to the second round by defeating Russia's Anastasia Zakharova with a score of 7-6 (6), 7-6 (3) in a match that concluded after midnight.
Osaka stated that the ensemble was a personal tribute to Iverson, whom she admires. The fashion choice was also influenced by her apparel partner, Nike, which had requested a basketball-themed look. "Nike said basketball, so I said, ‘OK, you want basketball, I’ll give you basketball,’" Osaka explained.
Despite facing challenges, including being broken while serving for both sets, Osaka emerged victorious in both tiebreakers. She recorded 10 of her 11 aces in the second set. "I just get really nervous during this first round of this tournament, because I want to do well, and I want to show you (fans) some more outfits," Osaka said in her on-court interview, expressing gratitude to the fans for staying late.
Allen Iverson acknowledged Osaka's tribute on Instagram, writing, "Wow, what a honor!! BIG FAN can’t wait to meet you. @naomiosaka."
Osaka, a four-time major champion, returned to WTA-level play in 2024 after maternity leave. She has not yet won a tournament since her return. Her next opponent will be Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic, who defeated Italy's Elisabetta Cocciaretto in her first-round match.