Taking Control of On Court Fashion
Image courtesy: Pinterest
Today, tennis fashion still bids ode to the idea of classic, traditional attire for the sport with men typically sporting collared shirts and shorts, while women wear skirts or dresses. Nonetheless, there is still room for individuality, with players often adding their own unique touches to their outfits- and I’m obsessed. Firstly, I think it's important to note that fashion has always had an underlying importance in the history of tennis. These uniforms are a classic case of fashion vs. functionality: you want to look good, but you have to be able to perform. Now, I must admit, I am what you would consider a freshly converted tennis fan after attending the Queens Club matches in London this summer. So, while I am still indeed learning about everything the game itself has to offer, I couldn't help but pay attention to the athletes’ uniform choices as well… given the fashion aficionado I am, of course.
But seriously- as a lover of tennis’s historically preppy, sporty look I loved observing the outfits every player brought to the court. One might even say they were serving. However, according to “A Social History of Tennis in Britain,” there was not always leniency when it came to a player's on-court looks. In the late 1800s, tennis demanded a sophisticated wardrobe for women, dawning all white as a “symbol of purity and virtue.”
In addition, the white attire also minimized sweat stains. TBH… Smart. Sorry. This look became synonymous with Wimbledon, one of the tennis grand slams, and general etiquette during the game. Fast forward to the 1970s and finally we can see more on-court fashion risks being taken by players such as Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe introducing some colors and personal flair to their looks. (Personally, I’m a huge fan of the Fila headband X short-short X collared shirt moment).
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
We then jump to the 1990s-2000s when it comes to tennis fashion and its new age. Thankfully, the ATP and WTA tours allowed more flexibility, but professionalism remained key, which I GUESS I understand. Players had permission to wear branded gear, but it had to meet certain standards (e.g., no oversized logos, etc.). My personal favorite player of this era, when it comes to styling on the court, is by far Maria Sharapova. I will always hold her 2008 Wimbledon tuxedo+shorts outfit in my heart.
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
Not far behind would also be Miss Serena Williams, the icon herself. I couldn't possibly begin to understand how it feels wearing a custom Nike denim mini skirt and boots at the US Open in 2004, but I can only imagine it would feel like I’m cooler than anyone I've ever met. Tennis officials apparently deemed the boots “too over the top,” and it’s like, god forbid a girl blur the line between sport and high fashion.
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
Speaking of Williams, I can’t leave out Venus Williams’ 2010 French US Open red and black corset. I truly love that she kind of brought the 19th-century look to the 21st. The look is not your typical tennis uniform, as we can all see, and was designed by Venus herself. Is it too much for a tennis court? We all have our own opinions, and mine happens to be appreciative of her effort to push boundaries and be a little daring. It’s just fun, guys, come on.
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
While most players have begun to collaborate with name brands such as Nike, Filas, Adidas or Asics, player Camila Giorgi nurtures her personal style by wearing dresses designed by her mom. My favorite of her looks includes this white and lace dress, which I truly think is very “in” with the current trending atmosphere and reminds me of something I would wear should I ever become a professional tennis player. The probability is low, so I’ll have to find another occasion.
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
For fear of boring you forever, I have to conclude, but not without first highlighting my favorite recent looks from the 2025 US Open. Firstly, Naomi Osaka has made me so excited to see tennis players put their own personalities into their uniforms to make gameday their own. Osaka designed every piece of her all-red athleisure with the help of Nike and Yoon Ahn. I was not expecting to see a bubble-hem mini skirt on the court and I am not disappointed by it. Not to mention her cropped wind-breaker was covered in Swarovski crystals. Finally, Carlos Alcaraz, the U.S. Open champion himself, showed up in a cute purple set for the finals match. And no, it’s not just because he is the one wearing the outfit, I promise. As one of the faces of Nike men’s tennis, I genuinely love this color way they went with because what better way to advertise his vibrant personality than with this fabulous on-court look.
Image Courtesy: Naomi’s Instagram
Image Courtesy: Carlos’s Instagram
Strike Out,
Cira Thigpen
Editor: Maddie Launer
Athens