Two-time reigning US Open singles champion Aryna Sabalenka initiated her 2026 campaign at Flushing Meadows with a victory over Camila Osorio, winning 6-4, 6-4 on Monday. However, her on-court attire also garnered significant attention and commentary.
Following criticism for a black, mesh Nike dress worn during mixed doubles play that exposed bright orange undergarments, Sabalenka appeared in a similar, yet distinct, orange version for her singles match. She explained that the outfits were designed by Nike with distinct day and night versions for the tournament.
"To be honest, I didn't know that I have a day dress," Sabalenka stated. "I thought I have a black dress with orange underneath. I figured [out] when I went to Nike that I actually have day session and night session, which is just like black and orange for the day."
The black outfit, worn with Novak Djokovic in mixed doubles on August 25, featured a mesh design that revealed her orange sports bra and matching briefs. This sparked criticism on social media, with some users describing the attire as "trashy."
Sabalenka, however, defended her fashion choices prior to the backlash, stating, "Who cares what people think? I love it."
She elaborated on her grand slam outfits, explaining that they are inspired by the host cities. "Surfing for the Australian Open, ballet for Roland Garros, cricket for Wimbledon," she said. "Now it's basketball and we're in New York. Isn't it the perfect fit?"
Sabalenka has reached the last three US Open finals, securing wins in 2024 and 2025 after a loss to Coco Gauff in 2023. She expressed affection for the venue, calling it one of her favorite stadiums.
The victory on Monday came after a series of less dominant performances leading up to the US Open, with fourth-round exits in Toronto and Cincinnati, and at Wimbledon. Sabalenka's current ranking may be vulnerable even with a potential win in New York; second-ranked Elena Rybakina could surpass her if she reaches the semifinals.