‘Power Play’ Serves Up a Night of Tennis, Diamonds, and Big Plans
Our take
The convergence of high fashion, athletic prowess, and female leadership, as exemplified by Marie Claire’s Power Play dinner series at the U.S. Open, speaks to a shifting cultural landscape where traditionally separate spheres are increasingly intertwined. Bringing this event to Wild Cherry, a restaurant steeped in New York’s theatrical history, further underscored the intentionality of the gathering – a deliberate choice to cultivate an atmosphere of understated elegance and creative energy. It’s a move that resonates with a desire for experiences that transcend the purely transactional, leaning instead into a mood of sophisticated connection. This echoes the broader trend we've observed in fashion, highlighted in articles like [The Best Fall 2026 Dress Trends Are Richer, Softer, and More Romantic], where a move away from overt displays of wealth towards a more nuanced, emotionally resonant aesthetic is underway. The event's focus on women "who run the game" – across sports, media, fashion, and culture – is particularly significant, positioning these women not just as participants but as architects of their respective domains.
The selection of the U.S. Open as the backdrop is also noteworthy. Tennis, with its blend of athleticism, strategy, and a certain inherent grace, embodies a quiet strength that aligns perfectly with the Power Play ethos. The association with diamonds – a classic symbol of enduring value and refined taste – further reinforces this sense of timeless elegance. This isn't about fleeting trends; it’s about celebrating women who are building legacies. The related coverage of Naomi Osaka’s groundbreaking U.S. Open look, as detailed in [Law Roach Brought Naomi Osaka's First 2026 US Open Outfit to Life in "Roughly 30 Hours"], exemplifies this, showcasing the deliberate artistry and thoughtful collaboration that goes into crafting a powerful visual statement. The fact that the outfit paid homage to both Allen Iverson and Virgil Abloh is a testament to the cross-pollination of ideas and influences shaping contemporary style. Similarly, the broader fashion landscape, as explored in [Fashion's Fall 2026 Campaigns Star Hailey Bieber, Connor Storrie, & More], reveals a continued emphasis on visual storytelling and the power of individual expression.
Beyond the immediate glamour of the event, the Power Play series signals a broader shift in how female achievement is recognized and celebrated. There's a move away from simply acknowledging success to actively fostering a community of support and mentorship. This gathering isn’t merely a photo opportunity; it’s a strategic investment in the future of women’s leadership across diverse fields. The choice of a dinner setting, as opposed to a more typical industry event, further emphasizes the importance of connection and authentic relationships. It’s a space designed for conversation, collaboration, and the forging of meaningful bonds – elements often overlooked in the fast-paced world of media and entertainment. The understated elegance of the chosen venue and the curated guest list reflect a deliberate attempt to cultivate an atmosphere of intimacy and shared purpose.
Ultimately, the Power Play dinner series at the U.S. Open represents a powerful convergence of cultural forces: a celebration of female leadership, a reimagining of luxury, and a growing appreciation for the power of quiet confidence. It’s a moment that speaks to a desire for authenticity and a rejection of superficiality. As we look ahead, it will be interesting to observe how this trend of merging traditionally separate worlds—sports, fashion, media—continues to evolve and reshape the landscape of female empowerment. Will we see more events like this, blurring the lines between industries and creating spaces for unexpected collaborations? And perhaps more importantly, how will these gatherings translate into tangible action and lasting change within these respective fields?
Marie Claire brought its Power Play dinner series to the U.S. Open for the first time last week, gathering women across sports, media, fashion, and culture at Wild Cherry in New York’s West Village.
From its home inside the historic Cherry Lane Theatre, the restaurant made for a very old-New-York setting to talk about the future of women in sports. Marie Claire editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike co-hosted the evening with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, whom she introduced as “my doubles partner.”
The idea behind the night, dubbed “In Her Court,” was simple enough: bring together women whose relationship to sports extends well beyond what happens on the court.
“Sports have this unique and incredible ability to bring people off the sidelines and together in a way that often leads to change,” Ogunnaike told the room. “Because of tennis, we have Billie Jean King and Serena Williams. Which is to say, we’re having conversations about equal pay and representation and maternal health. We have Naomi Osaka and Taylor Townsend. Which is to say we’re having conversations about mental health and the juggle of motherhood and work.”
That’s exactly the kind of influence Power Play was built to gather around. “I mean, what gifts the game has given us,” she continued. “It doesn’t just inspire—it’s paved the way for real progress.”
And while athletes may be the most visible women in sports, they’re far from the only ones shaping it. “There are influencers and WAGS. There are coaches and business executives. Agents and superfans,” Ogunnaike said.
The room reflected that range, with guests including tennis player Taylor Townsend, Olympic fencer Monica Aksamit, New York City Ballet principal Tiler Peck, CNN anchor Abby Phillip, Olivia Ponton, Ayan Broomfield, and Tayshia Adams, alongside entrepreneurs, stylists, creators, and other figures across fashion and sports.
Marie Claire hosted the celebratory event in collaboration with A Diamond Is Forever, Cadillac, and Free People Movement. A Diamond Is Forever also styled guests in natural diamonds for the night.
But for all the celebratory trappings, Ogunnaike was clear that the dinner was meant to do more than mark the beginning of the tournament.
“Yes, we can sip our honey deuces—and please do, eat, drink, and be merry—but really, it’s about creating a space for us to come together, to have important conversations and to get inspired to use our voices to reshape culture,” she said.
Or, put a little more simply: “We’re plotting and planning in here, you all.”
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