Tennis

Elena Rybakina, the No. 4 seed at Roland Garros, made a stylish statement on Tuesday with her new cream-colored Yonex dress. The unique outfit, featuring olive contrasts and burnt orange details, set her apart from her Team Yonex teammates, who have been wearing the brand's 2024 Paris Collection in orange and olive.Rybakina's on-court look sparked speculation that it could be a custom fit, as it wasn't featured in Yonex's pre-tournament promotions and is not available online. However, when asked about the dress in a press conference, Rybakina initially seemed annoyed before shutting down the line of questioning."These colors? These colors I didn't choose," she replied. "It was the brand who chose for me, so some other questions?"Despite her reluctance to discuss her outfit, Rybakina's performance on the court was impressive. She fired 36 winners and dropped serve only once in a 6-2, 6-3 victory over Greet Minnen.As Yonex's highest-ranked head-to-toe athlete, Rybakina's unique kit could be a sign of her growing marketability. However, the lack of promotion from Yonex and Rybakina's own disinterest in discussing it has created a sense of confusion and speculation.Rybakina's press conference also raised questions about players' press obligations. When asked about a range of topics, including the conditions, her rivalry with Aryna Sabalenka, and the upcoming Olympic Games, Rybakina kept her answers short and declined to elaborate.Her tense interaction with the press sparked a debate on social media about the balance between players' obligations to the media and the media's responsibility to keep things interesting for them.Despite the controversy surrounding her press conference, Rybakina remains focused on her progress in Paris. She will face Arantxa Rus in the second round on Thursday.

Jannik Sinner, the world's No. 2 tennis player, has once again made a fashion statement on the court, this time with a one-of-a-kind duffle bag designed by Gucci in collaboration with his racquet sponsor, Head. The bag, which features Head's performance materials and Gucci's signature green and red Web stripe, is a testament to the growing partnership between the Italian tennis star and the luxury fashion house.Sinner's partnership with Gucci began in 2022, when he became the brand's global ambassador. However, Gucci's ties to tennis extend back to the 1970s, when the brand unveiled its first tennis-inspired pieces. Gucci's visionary decision to sign Sinner, then a rising star ranked outside the Top 10, has proven to be a wise one, as he has since ascended to the top of the game and become a national hero in Italy.Last year, Sinner made history by bringing Gucci's signature monogram duffle bag on court at Wimbledon, with the brand receiving special approval from the ATP, ITF, and Wimbledon. The bag has since become a symbol of Sinner's unique style and the growing influence of fashion in the world of tennis.Sinner's latest on-court accessory is a testament to the continued collaboration between Gucci and Head. The bag perfectly blends sportswear and luxury fashion, featuring both Head's leading performance materials and Gucci's signature design elements. Sinner is set to carry the bag at all competitions this season, further solidifying his status as a fashion icon in the world of tennis.Beyond his fashion sense, Sinner is also a formidable competitor on the court. Despite struggling with a hip injury in recent weeks, he made a strong return at Roland Garros, defeating Christopher Eubanks in straight sets. The victory boosted confidence in Sinner's quest for a second Grand Slam title and put him back in the running to finish the fortnight as the ATP's new world No. 1.Sinner's next challenge will be against France's Richard Gasquet on Court Philippe Chatrier in the second round at Roland Garros. With his unique style and determination, Sinner is poised to make a deep run in the tournament and continue his ascent to the top of the tennis world.

Denis Shapovalov, the Canadian tennis star, has sparked a social media frenzy with his emphatic victory at Roland Garros and his subsequent declaration about the color of his polo shirt. After securing his first Grand Slam match win since Wimbledon last year, Shapovalov took to social media to address the buzz surrounding his attire."Forget 'blue and black' or 'white and gold': 'My shirt is salmon,'" Shapovalov declared on X, formerly Twitter, referencing the iconic "Friends" episode where Ross insists his shirt is not pink.Shapovalov's humorous declaration has divided fans, with some insisting it's orange on TV. However, the Canadian's light-hearted commentary has been widely appreciated.The debate over the shirt's color stems from Nike's Paris Collection, which is inspired by the color palette of Roland Garros. According to Nike, the shirt's color is "Pink Quartz," with a "Rust Factor" orange collar.Shapovalov's second-round match against fellow Nike-wearer Frances Tiafoe promises to reignite the debate. Tiafoe, the No. 25 seed, has opted for the "Thunder Blue" colorway of the same kit.The color controversy has added an unexpected layer of intrigue to Shapovalov's Roland Garros campaign. As he progresses through the tournament, the debate over his shirt's color is likely to follow him, adding a touch of humor to the intense competition.

Daniil Medvedev's Roland Garros debut on Monday evening was a memorable one, not only for his performance on the court but also for his unique attire. Bundled up in multiple layers to combat the chilly Parisian weather, Medvedev's cozy ensemble drew attention on social media.Despite the cold temperatures, Medvedev's performance was far from sluggish. He faced a spirited challenge from Dominik Koepfer, but ultimately prevailed in four sets. The Russian fired 35 winners and saved all four break points he faced, showcasing his resilience and determination.Medvedev's attire was a testament to his adaptability and the importance of comfort on the court. He wore his signature Lacoste match kit, complete with thermal sleeves, leggings, and two outer layers. The leggings were tucked into high socks for maximum warmth, creating a look that was both functional and stylish.The cozy ensemble garnered a range of reactions on social media, with some fans dubbing him the second coming of French fashion icon Rene Lacoste. Lacoste, a three-time Roland Garros winner, was not only a tennis champion but also the inventor of the polo shirt and a pioneer of branding in sportswear.Medvedev's Lacoste kit for Roland Garros 2024 is a testament to the brand's heritage and its commitment to innovation. The navy blue performance polo with burgundy red and white details, including a striped collar and sleeves, is both stylish and functional. The burgundy red shorts and Lacoste AG-LT Ultra shoes in navy blue complete the look.All of the garments feature Medvedev's personal logo, which was introduced by Lacoste last year and is inspired by his love for gaming. The logo adds a personal touch to the kit, reflecting Medvedev's unique personality and style.Medvedev's victory over Koepfer sets up a second-round clash with Miomir Kecmanovic, who defeated Thiago Monteiro in four sets. Medvedev will be looking to continue his momentum and make a deep run at Roland Garros, while also showcasing his signature style on the court.

Ajla Tomljanovic's brief but vibrant appearance at Roland Garros showcased her role as a trendsetter for Original Penguin, a heritage athleisure brand that has recently ventured into tennis. As the brand's first female ambassador, Tomljanovic has played a pivotal role in introducing Penguin to a new market and identifying emerging trends.Tomljanovic's eye-catching kit on Day 1 of Roland Garros exemplified the brand's commitment to bold prints and vibrant colors. Her royal blue and white crop top and Flounce Tennis Skort featured pops of hot pink, creating a striking contrast. The eco-conscious kit, made from recycled polyester, also boasted moisture-wicking properties and added stretch for optimal performance.Beyond her match attire, Tomljanovic's training gear has also garnered attention. She frequently uses weighted training apparel from Omorpho, an activewear start-up in which she holds an equity stake. This innovative technology enhances the effectiveness of workouts, providing Tomljanovic with a competitive edge.Despite her early exit from the singles tournament, Tomljanovic will continue her Roland Garros journey in women's doubles alongside Daria Saville. Their opponents in the first round will be the No. 16 seeds Miyu Kato and Nadiia Kichenok.Original Penguin's CEO, Oscar Feldenkreis, praised Tomljanovic's contributions to the brand, highlighting her passion for the product and her ability to identify new trends. He expressed excitement about the upcoming initiatives and prints for 2024, promising "fabulous" outfits with "fashion and happy colors."Tomljanovic's influence extends beyond her own wardrobe, as she has become a style icon for tennis fans worldwide. Her bold and colorful choices have inspired a new generation of players to embrace individuality and express themselves through their attire.

Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion, has launched a new web series titled "Serving Looks" that explores the intersection of fashion and tennis. In the debut episode, Osaka revisits some of the most iconic on-court looks, including her own and those made famous by Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova.Osaka begins by showcasing the red Nike dress and sneakers she wore at the Tokyo Olympics, which she describes as "the most beautiful Olympics dress you'll ever see." She recalls the significance of being the torch lighter at the Opening Ceremony and the custom white Air Force 1s Nike created for her with the brand's signature swoosh logo."These are a treasure for me," Osaka says of the shoes. "I really love shoes, and I really love things that bring me a lot of memories. These shoes bring me a lot of memories."Osaka also discusses Sharapova's teal-blue Nike dress from the 2007 Roland Garros tournament, which she admired as a child. "I just remember thinking, 'Maybe one day, I'll be sponsored by Nike if I was good enough,'" she says.Other notable outfits featured in the episode include Osaka's hot pink 2022 Australian Open romper, which she calls "very innovative," Williams' famous white and tan Puma dress from her 1999 US Open victory, and Osaka's own orange and black 2019 US Open dress, which she deems "the greatest tennis outfit of all-time.""I vividly remember thinking, 'This is the best tennis outfit I'm going to ever have,'" Osaka says, promising to surpass it with her future looks.Beyond tennis attire, Osaka also shares her thoughts on a striking black leather jacket from the late Kobe Bryant's clothing line and a pair of Nike shoes featuring detailing from the manga series Naruto and a cartoon likeness of her dog, Butta."Serving Looks" promises to delve into the cultural impact of iconic outfits, providing context for their history and legacy.

Rafael Nadal's tennis career has been marked by not only his exceptional athleticism but also his bold and evolving fashion sense. From his early days as a teenager to his current status as a seasoned veteran, Nadal has consistently pushed the boundaries of tennis attire.The Sleeveless Shirt and Pirate Shorts Era (2005-2008)Nadal's signature look during his teenage years was a combination of a sleeveless shirt and loose-fitting pirate shorts. This unconventional style immediately set him apart from his peers and became synonymous with his youthful exuberance. The sleeveless shirt allowed for maximum freedom of movement, while the pirate shorts provided a comfortable and relaxed fit.The Raging Bull Era (2013-Present)As Nadal matured, so did his fashion. In 2013, Nike unveiled the Raging Bull logo, which became the centerpiece of Nadal's apparel. The logo, inspired by the Spanish bullfighting tradition, symbolized Nadal's aggressive and determined playing style.Along with the Raging Bull logo, Nadal's fashion evolved towards more mature silhouettes and shorter shorts. In 2014, he debuted seven-inch shorts, a significant reduction from the 18-inch inseam of his early days. Despite the shorter length, Nadal's shorts remained vibrant and eye-catching, featuring bold colors and intricate patterns.The Swoosh HeadbandOne constant throughout Nadal's fashion journey has been his iconic Swoosh headband. The headband, which features the Nike logo, has become an integral part of Nadal's on-court persona. It not only keeps his hair out of his eyes but also serves as a symbol of his partnership with Nike.Nadal's Fashion LegacyRafael Nadal's fashion choices have not only influenced tennis attire but have also made him a style icon beyond the sport. His bold and experimental style has inspired countless fans and has helped to redefine the perception of what a tennis player can wear.From his sleeveless shirt and pirate shorts to his Raging Bull logo and Swoosh headband, Nadal's fashion evolution has been a reflection of his growth as a player and a person. His unique style has left an indelible mark on the sport and continues to inspire and captivate fans around 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.

Iga Swiatek, the world's top-ranked tennis player, graces the cover of the June issue of Elle magazine in Poland, showcasing her style and athleticism. The cover shoot captures the cultural moment that tennis is experiencing, with Swiatek's historic partnership with Lancôme cosmetics and Zendaya's "method dressing" for her film "Challengers."Swiatek's cover features two striking images. In one, she wears a black gown with a cutout waist and long sleeve, accessorized with simple earrings and bracelets. In the other, she opts for a bold red dress, her hair down and hoop earrings.The magazine highlights Swiatek's evolution since her previous Elle cover in 2022. She reflects on her journey from a rising star to a seasoned competitor, acknowledging the challenges and expectations that come with her success."I'm no longer just a tennis player," Swiatek says. "My role is not as easy as I imagined, dreaming of a career as a 12-year-old."Despite her accomplishments, Swiatek remains grounded and appreciates the opportunity to express her femininity and style. "I appreciate when I can dress elegant, feel feminine, and attractive," she tells Elle.The cover shoot has garnered praise from fans and fellow athletes alike. Magda Linette, Swiatek's Polish compatriot, called it "perfection," while skier Lindsey Vonn exclaimed "Wow!"Swiatek's Elle cover is a testament to her status as a global icon, both on and off the court. As she prepares for the Paris Olympics this summer, she continues to inspire a generation with her athleticism, style, and authenticity.