Tennis

Nike is making a bold move in the tennis world by rebranding its image around its rising stars, Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka. The sportswear giant is shifting away from its reliance on established veterans like Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams, who are either retiring or returning from maternity leave.Sinner, the world No. 1, has been spotted wearing custom gear featuring his personal fox logo, which was unveiled in 2022 but rarely used. The logo symbolizes his nickname, his love for skiing, and his Italian heritage. Nike's decision to bring back the fox imagery suggests a desire to move beyond the "carrot" era, which has been associated with Sinner's fans.Sabalenka, the WTA world No. 1, has also revived her "Tiger" brand. She has incorporated tiger motifs into her jewelry, shoes, and clothing, including a Nike warm-up jacket with a tiger on the back. In an interview, she expressed her desire to collaborate with Nike on a collection.Nike's focus on Sinner and Sabalenka aligns with its strategy of tapping into the marketability of the sport's younger generation. Carlos Alcaraz, the four-time Grand Slam winner, has reportedly renewed his contract with Nike for a substantial sum, which includes the development of a custom logo.This shift in Nike's roster reflects the changing landscape of tennis. With Nadal's retirement and Osaka's absence, the brand has been lacking in global ambassadors to stand out from its competitors. By investing in Sinner, Sabalenka, and Alcaraz, Nike is positioning itself to maintain its dominance in the tennis market.

Aryna Sabalenka's post-US Open victory tour has taken a glamorous turn, with the Belarusian star attending Off-White's New York Fashion Week runway show. Sabalenka, who captured her third Grand Slam title at Flushing Meadows, has been making waves in the fashion world since her triumph.Her appearance at the Off-White show, known for its collaborations with Nike, has sparked speculation that Sabalenka could be the next tennis star to partner with the iconic brand. Nike has a long history of working with tennis legends, including Serena Williams, whose "tutu"-inspired dress at the 2019 US Open was designed by Off-White.Sabalenka's visit to the fashion show was not her only post-Open outing. She has also made appearances on morning TV shows, including the TODAY show and Live with Kelly & Mark, alongside men's singles champion Jannik Sinner.In a gesture of appreciation for her fans, Sabalenka has offered a $10 promotion on Dobel Tequila cocktails. The 26-year-old has been celebrating her victory in style, enjoying the sights and sounds of New York City.Sabalenka's post-Open tour has been a whirlwind of media appearances, fashion events, and fan interactions. As she continues her reign as one of the top players in women's tennis, it will be interesting to see what other adventures lie ahead for the Belarusian star.

Serena Williams, the legendary tennis icon, made a grand return to the 2024 US Open, captivating the crowd with a nostalgic nod to her iconic 2004 denim ensemble. This marked her first appearance at a Grand Slam tournament since her official retirement two years prior.Williams' presence at the US Open, where she has triumphed six times, was a testament to her enduring legacy in the sport. Her return was met with thunderous applause and admiration from fans and fellow players alike.The 23-time Grand Slam champion's denim outfit was a deliberate homage to the 20th anniversary of her original Nike kit, which became an instant classic. Williams' love for the ensemble was evident in her interview with Vogue, where she described it as one of her all-time favorites."I wanted more pizzazz," Williams said of her decision to switch to Nike from Puma. "I loved what Andre [Agassi] wore when he wore the jean shorts. I wanted to wear a jean skirt!"The custom-designed jean skirt, made from a lightweight fabric to ensure optimal performance, was a testament to Williams' attention to detail and her desire to push the boundaries of tennis fashion.Beyond her on-court appearances, Williams also took time to connect with former pros, including current world No. 1 Iga Swiatek. Her presence at the US Open served as a reminder of her enduring influence on the sport and her continued passion for tennis.Williams' return to the US Open was not only a celebration of her past achievements but also a glimpse into her future. Her love for the game and her desire to inspire the next generation of players were evident in every interaction.As the US Open draws to a close, fans can only hope that Williams' denim reference will spark a revival of the trend in 2025. Her iconic style and unwavering spirit continue to inspire and captivate the tennis world.

Naomi Osaka's triumphant return to the US Open was not just about her tennis prowess but also about her bold fashion statement. The two-time champion graced the court in a custom "Lolita goth"-inspired outfit from Nike, turning heads with its layers of tulle, ruffles, and bows.Osaka's outfit, designed by Japanese designer Yoon Ahn, was a reflection of her personal style and her love for Harajuku's unique fashion. The white warm-up jacket featured a tennis ball zipper and a giant green bow, while the warm-up skirt added drama with layers of tulle.Beneath the warm-up layers, Osaka wore a green sleeveless Nike dress with ruffles along the skirt and armholes. A large white bow adorned the back, completing the maximalist look. Even her Nike Zoom GP Challenge 1 shoes and Beats headphones received the "Lolita" treatment, with green bows and pearls.Osaka's outfit was not just a fashion statement but also a symbol of her transformation on the court. She described it as a "super suit" that gave her strength and confidence. The layers of tulle and ruffles represented the different aspects of her personality, while the bows symbolized her determination and resilience.The outfit was part of a collaboration between Osaka and Nike that had been in the works for years. Ahn, the creative director of Ambush and global curator for Nike Women, explained that the design was inspired by Osaka's desire to escape into a fantasy world where she could create her own identity.Osaka's bold fashion choice was a reflection of her confidence and her willingness to embrace her individuality. It was a statement that she was not afraid to stand out and be different, both on and off the court.

Naomi Osaka's triumphant return to Wimbledon after a four-year hiatus was marked not only by her hard-fought victory but also by her captivating fashion statement. The Japanese tennis star, who has become renowned for her bold and innovative on-court attire, once again turned heads with her custom Nike kit.Osaka's outfit, described as "an elaborate ensemble fit for the Met Gala," featured a cropped racerback tank top adorned with a flowing gauze-like ruffle that cascaded from her right shoulder. The skirt, crafted from the same ethereal material, billowed gracefully with every movement. The all-white colorway was accented by subtle pops of forest green, complementing her Nike x NO shoes and Tag Heuer Aquaracer watch.Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Osaka's outfit held personal significance. The gauze-like ruffle symbolized the delicate and transformative journey she has undergone since becoming a mother. "It's really cool to be here now," she reflected after the match. "I think my mindset last year was just trying to survive..."The outfit sparked a lively debate on social media, with fans expressing both admiration and skepticism. Some hailed it as a masterpiece of fashion innovation, while others questioned its practicality on the court. However, Osaka remained unfazed by the mixed reactions."I'm just trying to have fun with it," she said. "I think it's important to be yourself and not be afraid to express yourself."Osaka's victory and her eye-catching outfit have set the stage for an intriguing Wimbledon campaign. The four-time Grand Slam winner will face No. 19 seed Emma Navarro in the second round, aiming to reach the third round at the All England Club for the first time since 2018.

Carlos Alcaraz, the 19-year-old Spanish tennis sensation, has reportedly signed a lucrative contract extension with Nike. According to Spanish sports website Relevo, the deal is worth an estimated $15 to $20 million annually and will extend into the mid-2030s.The new contract, which was inked before Alcaraz's historic victory at Roland Garros, will also include the unveiling of his own custom logo. This move follows a similar extension signed by Jannik Sinner in 2022, making the two young stars the faces of Nike in men's tennis.Alcaraz has been sponsored by Nike since 2019, and his previous contract was set to expire in 2025. The new deal is a testament to his meteoric rise in the sport, which has seen him become the youngest player to win Grand Slam titles on all three surfaces in the Open Era.With his victory at Roland Garros, Alcaraz has now earned over $30 million in career prize money. He is also the second-highest earning tennis player in the world, according to Forbes, with $31.4 million in on- and off-court earnings last year.In addition to his Nike sponsorship, Alcaraz has lucrative deals with Babolat, Rolex, BMW, Calvin Klein, and Louis Vuitton. The new Nike contract further solidifies his status as one of the most marketable athletes in the world.

Aryna Sabalenka, Carlos Alcaraz, and Frances Tiafoe are among the tennis stars set to don Nike's latest 2024 Paris Collection at Roland Garros. The collection, unveiled on Tuesday, features a range of stylish and functional pieces inspired by the French Open's iconic clay courts.Sabalenka, the world No. 2, will once again showcase her signature colorway in Paris. She will wear the NikeCourt Slam Women's Dri-FIT Tennis Dress in "Rust Factor" orange, featuring a unique moiré pattern that creates a mesmerizing optical illusion. The dress's high neckline, keyhole back cut-out, and pink or red colorway have become synonymous with Sabalenka's major appearances.The Paris Collection also includes a variety of separates for women, including tanks, tees, and skirts. The moiré pattern is featured prominently throughout the collection, adding a touch of French flair to each piece.For men, the collection offers a choice of DriFIT crew neck or polo tops, along with two-in-one shorts. Colorways include Rust Factor orange, Thunder Blue, and Vivid Sulfur yellow, complemented by contrasting black and white details.Frances Tiafoe, the brand's highest-ranked American ambassador on the ATP side, was featured in the campaign unveiling the Thunder Blue colorway. He is expected to play a significant role in Paris, especially with Nike's top two players, Alcaraz and Sinner, still recovering from injuries.Naomi Osaka and Rafael Nadal are also expected to compete at Roland Garros in custom kits from Nike. The brand has yet to reveal the designs for these former No. 1s, but fans can expect something special.The 2024 Paris Collection from Nike combines style, functionality, and a touch of French inspiration. It is sure to turn heads on the courts of Roland Garros and beyond.

Rafael Nadal's Signature Gear: A Comprehensive GuideRafael Nadal, the legendary Spanish tennis player, is renowned for his aggressive style and relentless determination on the court. His signature gear, meticulously designed to enhance his performance, plays a crucial role in his success.Racquet: Babolat Pure Aero Rafa OriginThe Babolat Pure Aero Rafa Origin is a formidable weapon in Nadal's arsenal. Its Aeromodular beam shape, FSI Spin technology, and Woofer System provide exceptional spin and power. The increased weight (317g) and stiffness offer stability and plow through, allowing Nadal to unleash his trademark groundstrokes with devastating force. However, this racquet demands a skilled hand and sturdy arm to wield effectively.Apparel: Nike Rafa Dri-Fit AdvNadal's signature Nike apparel is designed for optimal performance and comfort. The Dri-Fit Adv Short Sleeve and Shorts feature breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that keeps the body dry and comfortable during intense play. The shirt's seamless back shoulders ensure unrestricted movement, while the shorts' lightweight and pliable fabric allows for effortless agility on the court.Shoes: Nike Zoom Vapor Cage 4 RafaThe Nike Zoom Vapor Cage 4 Rafa is a testament to Nadal's exceptional footwork. Its unique lacing system provides a secure fit, while the molded foot frame offers stability during lateral movements. The Air Zoom unit in the forefoot delivers cushioning and responsiveness, propelling Nadal into the next step with ease. The durable outsole, backed by a six-month guarantee, provides exceptional protection against toe dragging.ConclusionRafael Nadal's signature gear is meticulously crafted to complement his aggressive and relentless style of play. The Babolat Pure Aero Rafa Origin racquet, Nike Rafa Dri-Fit Adv apparel, and Nike Zoom Vapor Cage 4 Rafa shoes empower Nadal to perform at his peak, delivering the exceptional results that have made him a legend in the sport of tennis.

Aryna Sabalenka's unwavering trust in Nike footwear was evident at the BNP Paribas Open, where she narrowly escaped an injury scare and credited her shoes for her remarkable recovery.The world No. 2 faced a daunting challenge in her opening round match against Peyton Stearns, suffering an ankle twist and a brief dip into the splits. However, Sabalenka's determination and the support of her Nike shoes allowed her to overcome the adversity and secure a hard-fought victory in a final-set tiebreaker."That's why I like my shoes," Sabalenka said after the match. "I have good control on my feet there. I was able to kind of let it go and save myself."Sabalenka's resilience was particularly impressive considering she had played only two matches since winning the 2024 Australian Open. She had curtailed her Middle East Swing to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, where she lost in the opening round.Against Stearns, Sabalenka displayed her trademark power and aggression, saving four match points to book a first meeting with Emma Raducanu. The British star advanced after Dayana Yastremska retired in the opening set of their match.Sabalenka's victory was a testament to her physical and mental toughness, as well as the quality of her Nike footwear. The shoes provided her with the stability and support she needed to navigate the challenging conditions and emerge victorious.