There was a time when white was the only colour tennis players could wear, and it still is at Wimbledon, but players are adding their own personal touches more and more these days. Whether it is Jimmy Connors’ needless neckwear, Andre Agassi’s flamboyant mane or Roger Federer’s dramatic black ensembles, you will find them wearing all kinds of stuffs. Now, you will find a rainbow of uniforms, accessories, and even hairstyles on the tennis court.
Here are some of the best dressed tennis players of this decade.
Rafael Nadal
The “King of Clay” is more than a player. He is a legend. But while his command of the court has always been evident, his style was once less impressive. Fortunately, the multiple Grand Slam singles champion has retired the capris and oversize oxfords in favour of sleek, all-black ensembles and slicked-back tresses.
Maria Sharapova
While speaking to CNN, Maria Sharapova once said, “When you look good, you feel good”. A top ranking player, Sharapova evinces her personal motto each time she steps on the court, and certainly when she steps off it. The Russian beauty has fronted campaigns for Nike, Prince, and Canon.
She has also designed accessories for Cole Haan. At nearly six foot two, Sharapova flatters her athletic frame in intricately draped gowns, short-and-sweet mini-dresses, and unapologetic heels. Her Grand Slam outfits reflect the local environment, so for the French Open, she wore the French-inspired blue legend stripes.
Venus Williams
Once ranked No.1, Venus Williams has made history for her determination, drive, and creativity. Despite her commitment to the court, she’s also an ambitious entrepreneur. Chief among her myriad projects is EleVen, a line of ready-to-wear apparel. The label has been displayed at the New York Fashion Week and collaborated with retailers like Ralph Lauren, Gilt, and Diane Von Furstenberg.
Venus has found her style in chic and feminine colourful prints that are always accompanied by attractive cuts.
Serena Williams
The kid sister of Venus, Serena Williams is no second-place sibling. Currently ranked No. 1, the younger Williams is the only player to have achieved a Career Golden Slam in both singles and doubles. It’s certainly her game that makes her famous, but her unusual on-court outfits attract a fair share of attention too.
In 2002, she played the U.S. Open in a black Lycra catsuit. Serena regularly performs in the line of sportswear that she designs with Nike. During the evening, she prefers colourful dresses, body-skimming sheaths, and fit-and-flare silhouettes.
Roger Federer
The A.T.P. has ranked tennis icon Roger Federer as one of the top three players in the world for the past decade. He is widely considered the greatest tennis player of all time – a true living legend.
When the Swiss legend and brand representative isn’t wearing Nike footwear and apparel, he will step out in charcoal suits, smart jackets, and dark denim. Roger looks great in almost anything he wears.
Andy Murray
The Scotsman, who restored the crown to the British Empire by winning Wimbledon 77 years after Fred Perry, knows how to score off court too. His outfits are the perfect blend of formal and casual.
Novak Djokovic
Djokovic wears tasteful apparel on the tennis court, especially the black Uniqlo top with the yellow accents. He looks very businesslike, and not too flashy.