'Controversy over 'a dress worth a staggering 200 million won': Former world No. 1 Japanese star dons another 'bold outfit' — "The reason is..."

*This content was translated by AI.

The tennis court has become a fashion show venue in itself. Osaka Naomi (29, Japan), who has consistently stirred both controversy and buzz with bold fashion choices at every major tournament, made another global headline by appearing on the US Open court in a daring outfit honoring NBA legend Allen Iverson.

On the 2nd (Korean time), British outlet 'Daily Mail' reported that "Osaka showcased an outfit paying tribute to NBA legend Allen Iverson during her first-round match at the 2026 US Open women's singles held at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, USA."

Before facing Russia's Anastasia Zakhárova in the first round, Osaka stepped onto the court wearing a wide tulle skirt that dragged along the floor, a sleeveless hoodie, and Iverson's signature arm sleeves and headband. The gray hoodie featured patches resembling burnt fabric scraps, styled to look like old newspaper clippings from his career, drawing attention.

According to 'Daily Mail', in a post-match interview, Osaka said, "This is my tribute to Iverson. I truly admire him." She added, "Iverson is a pioneer who changed fashion trends both on and off the court, and someone I deeply respect." In response to Osaka's homage, Iverson himself replied via his personal social networking service (SNS): "It's an incredible honor. I am also a devoted fan and look forward to meeting you soon."

Notably, at last June's French Open, Osaka sparked outrage among fellow players with an over-the-top fashion show presentation, placing her at the center of allegations of special treatment. At the time, 'Daily Mail' highlighted that "Osaka seemed to mock the controversy and criticism directed at her by turning the French Open court into a fashion show venue once again, drawing sharp scrutiny." During that event, Osaka walked across Suzanne Lenglen Court in a sparkling golden dress paired with a skirt that trailed all the way to the floor for her third-round singles match against 18-year-old American Iva Jovič.

Earlier, she also caused controversy in her first-round match against Laura Siegemund by appearing in a black corset made from deconstructed and reassembled Nike competition gear sponsored by her, along with a pleated skirt adorned with hundreds of crystals. When Osaka removed her outer layer, the custom-made golden dress underneath was reportedly priced at a staggering $150,000 (approximately 200 million won).

In an interview with 'TNT Sports', Siegemund, who lost that match, expressed frustration over the special treatment: "I came here to play tennis, not to put on a fashion show. In tennis tournaments, every moment is meticulously calculated down to the second until the water bottle is taken out, yet Osaka was granted a generous 1 minute and 30 seconds to remove and organize her outfit solely because she is a top-tier star. It is absolutely wrong for rules to be applied differently based on celebrity status."

Despite numerous controversies, Osaka advanced to the second round of the US Open by defeating Zakhárova with a set score of 2-0 (7-6, 7-6), powered by 11 service aces. In the second round, Osaka will face Czech player Kateřina Siniaková.

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*This content was translated by AI.