How My 2018 Tennis Fashion Predictions Came True
Since I was young, tennis fashion has held a cherished spot in my heart. Growing up, I’d spend hours sketching designs for tennis skirts, tops, and dresses, envisioning myself on the court in each creation. The graceful elegance of Maria Sharapova and the bold fierceness of Serena Williams served as constant inspirations, prompting me to consistently include “Nike Court tennis dress” on my birthday and Christmas wish lists.
As life progressed and my career in the professional tennis world unfolded — spanning all types of different roles within the industry — my focus naturally shifted away from fashion to other aspects of the sport. However, I still managed to carve out time for a few published pieces on tennis fashion, exploring topics ranging from “Top Five NBA X Tennis Court Shoe Collaborations” to “The 2018 Top Tennis Fashion Collaborations of the Year” to “Mayweather Sports a Nadal Richard Mille Timepiece.” Despite the whirlwind of my professional life, my love for tennis couture remained unwavering.
In 2018, I penned an article titled “My Tennis Fashion Thoughts,” delving into the potential for tennis to embrace more fashion within the sport. I distinctly remember feeling that there was ample room for players to express their personal styles and for designer collaborations to thrive. The article began with a simple yet poignant question: “In the only sport where a uniform is not required, why is it that tennis players are not more fashionable on court?”
Additionally, on February 13th, 2018, I took to Instagram to further explore these ideas, posing questions such as, “Why don’t designers like Gucci, Off-White, or Supreme create outfits for tennis players?” I pondered whether such collaborations could enhance the game, even suggesting the possibility of including spaces in players’ contracts for partnerships with different brands and designers. These reflections encapsulated my ongoing considerations regarding tennis and luxury fashion.
It’s incredible to see how my predictions and thoughts from 2018 have materialized. Fast forward six years later to today, luxury brands are finally embracing tennis, evident in designer/player collaborations like Louis Vuitton and Carlos Alcaraz, Gucci and Jannik Sinner, and Hugo Boss and Matteo Berrentini.
Moreover, the fusion of fashion and tennis has exceeded all expectations, embraced by both professional players and the wider fashion world. The undeniable influence of “tennis core” has not only reshaped the fashion landscape but has also transcended the confines of the court to become a defining element of mainstream style. From the iconic courts of Wimbledon to the glamorous runways of Paris, the inherent simplicity and elegance of tennis attire, with its clean lines and crisp whites, have become synonymous with contemporary fashion.
For me, this evolution represents more than just a passing trend — it’s a validation of the timeless allure and adaptability of tennis style and fashion. It embodies a lifestyle that resonates deeply with me. As someone deeply passionate about both fashion in tennis, witnessing the convergence of these two worlds in such a significant manner is undeniably inspiring. I eagerly anticipate the continued progression of tennis x fashion, both on and off the court. I’m thrilled to say that today, fashion in tennis and tennis in fashion has truly found its stride.
