ATTENTION ACTIVEWEAR COMPANIES! CALLING OUT MEN’S STYLE ON THE COURTS AT THE US OPEN

by Holly Adam Sep 06, 2022

As we enter the second week of the US Open here in NYC, it seems there’s a new racquet in town. I’m surely aging myself but long gone are the days of knee-high tube socks with patriotic colored stripes, white shorts, Stan Smiths, and pure as the driven snow Lacoste or Fred Perry polos.

ABOVE: Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates his victory over Richard Gasquet of France on September 03. Photo by Frey/TPN/Getty Images

Though the Williams sisters may have upped the ante with Nike Couture, not to mention Mother-Daughter twinning, it’s pretty evident that there’s a swelling crowd roar for today’s bold and interesting palette on the courts at Arthur Ashe. A most unlikely pairing, to be sure, at least to my classically trained eyes.

Frances Tiafoe of the United States in action during his match against Rafael Nadal on September 5th. Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images

From accents to full on, from footwear to shorts and shirts, it seems that hot pink, red, and burgundy are the combo of the week. Although my eyes have had a hard time adjusting to it, both male and female tennis stars are clearly embracing it. Rafa, Tiafoe, Rublev, Sabalenka and Azarenka must have had a hidden fashion consultant somewhere, encouraging this pairing (or tripling). A mash-up (smash-up?) of warm and cool colors, it certainly makes a statement.
Is it an ace? You tell me. Meanwhile, it’s time to stop writing to watch one of my tennis favorites, Berrettini. (Win or lose, and no matter what he’s wearing, he’s got my vote!)

Holly Adam is a former men’s fashion director at Bloomingdale’s and a regular MR commentator. She can be reached at hollyadam2014@gmail.com.