Sometimes we forget everything tennis has given us over the decades. Traditionally thought of as stuffy and proper, there has always been a rebellious element – think O.G. Andre Agassi playing in denim cut offs and the Nike Air Trainer 1 back in the late ‘80’s, or Michael Chang balling out in the Reebok Court Victory Pump.
Then the game was changed forever when the Williams sisters burst onto the scene in the late 90’s, with Serena going on to claim her place on the throne as not just the tennis GOAT, but a cultural and style icon, advocate, business owner, and more.
Here, we take a look at some of our favourite tennis pieces of the last couple of years to get you in the mood for those all-night rallies.
Nike Air Max 97Off-White Elemental Rose Serena “Queen”
What would this list be without a nod to one of the great sneaker releases of recent times, the Nike Air Max 97 Off White Elemental Rose Serena “Queen”?
This icon dropped in super limited numbers back in 2018, timed to coincide with Serena’s first round match at that year’s US Open. Whether it’s the pink-purple gradient, the oversized swoosh sitting on a pared-back upper, or the volt zip tie, this shoe turns heads just like Serena’s game.
Whether you cop these for the collection or for the feet, the glass case or the grandstand, they’re undeniable.
The Nike Air Max 97 Off White Elemental Rose Serena “Queen” was released as part of a pack, which also featured the Blazer Mid.
adidas Stan SmithWhite Green (OG)
The definition of a classic, the adidas Stan Smith White Green OG is timeless. Since its first release back in the mid 1960’s (not a typo) when the shoe was a performance tennis shoe, it has stayed relevant through generations. Your parents were probably wearing it in the 70’s and 80’s, and the late 90’s were time for hip hop to take offer – with rappers like Raekwon and Jay-Z name dropping the shoe around 2000.
So why is it such a staple? Because it’s so simple, understated, and classy. It’s the perfect shoe when you’re not trying to say too much with your sneakers – when you’re letting the rest of the fit speak.
It’s also the perfect nod to tennis style at a price that won’t break the bank.
Supreme Wilson Tennis Balls White
This is one for the tennis fan who has everything – the Supreme Wilson Tennis Ball 3-Pack in white was originally released back in 2018. These are not the tennis balls you want to leave laying around for the dog, rather some white on white Wilsons stamped with the world’s most famous box logo.
The balls don’t just look good – they’re made by Wilson – who also make balls for the US Open and a bunch of other tournaments, so you know they’re legit.
Why do you need them? Whether they’re the centrepiece of your next content shoot at home or you really want to flex on your opps at the baseline, nothing says you know what’s up like the Supreme Wilson Tennis Ball 3-Pack.
Kanye West Saint Pablo Kim Tennis Longsleeve T-Shirt Black
Just when you think you’ve enjoyed some content that doesn’t feature a Kardashian, BOOM! Kim playing tennis. How do they do it?
Anyway, remember the Saint Pablo tour? It’s kind of the one where things started to unravel for Ye, but back in 2016 this tour merch was the most hotly anticipated release of the second half of the year.
The Saint Pablo Kim Tennis Longsleeve is still a cop – maybe now more than ever. Back then if you rocked this you were one-of-many, now if you rock it you’re nodding your head to a moment in history, a simpler time. Back when Ye was killin’ em, and when it was love-all for he and Kim.
Brings a tear to the eye just thinking about it.
Uniqlo Roger Federer Hat White
There’s a famous sports saying that goes something like ‘form is temporary, but class is permanent’, and if there’s one person who embodies that phrase it’s the best Roger you know, 20 time grand slam winner and gentleman of the court, Roger Federer.
While not quite as dominant as he once was, The Swiss Maestro has always carried himself with style and a calm confidence. His personal logo is synonymous with all the qualities Roger displays on and off the court, making it the perfect choice for anyone who cheers for the good guys.
Whether Federer is still winning matches or not, this is a cap you can rock anywhere. There are multiple colours available, but what colour do you associate with Roger? That’s right, white.
Kith x Wilson Regular Duty Tennis Ball Set Yellow
If the Supreme white tennis balls weren’t your vibe, here’s a set that’s a little easier to handle – the Kith x Wilson Regular Duty Tennis Ball Set Yellow. Comprised of 3 balls, each featuring the Wilson logo on one side and various Kith logos on the other side, this release screams sophistication.
Originally releasing as part of a massive Kith x Wilson collection in September 2021, the Kith x Wilson Regular Duty Tennis Ball Set Yellow sold out with the quickness. Luckily, you can still cop it right now on StockX. Play with them, put them on your shelf, flex on the ‘gram – the ball is in your court.
