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Naomi Osaka Beats Anastasia Zakharova at U.S. Open

9/1/2026

Summary

Osaka Beats Zakharova

Naomi Osaka defeated Anastasia Zakharova 7-6(6), 7-6(3) at the U.S. Open.
Osaka wore an Allen Iverson-inspired hoodie and cornrows after Nike asked for a basketball theme.
Iga Swiatek, the eighth seed, beat Wang Xiyu 6-2, 6-3 to reach the second round.
Swiatek said she felt good from the start and wants to keep her energy and intensity.

Summary

Osaka Honors Iverson

Osaka posted her basketball-inspired ensemble on Instagram with the caption “The Answer,” referencing Iverson’s nickname.
Allen Iverson replied to Osaka’s tribute on Instagram, writing “Wow, what an honor!! BIG FAN can’t wait to meet you.”
Nike announced basketball as the 2026 US Open theme, prompting ambassadors Osaka, Alcaraz and Sabalenka to wear basketball-inspired kits.
Decides War produced the outfit, Law Roach styled it, and designers Téla D’Amore and Ev Bravado completed it in 30 hours.
The NBA introduced a dress code in 2005 after Iverson’s fashion choices sparked league controversy.

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Osaka Beats Zakharova

Naomi Osaka defeated Anastasia Zakharova 7-6(6), 7-6(3) at the U.S. Open.
Osaka wore an Allen Iverson-inspired hoodie and cornrows after Nike asked for a basketball theme.
Iga Swiatek, the eighth seed, beat Wang Xiyu 6-2, 6-3 to reach the second round.
Swiatek said she felt good from the start and wants to keep her energy and intensity.

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