Jessica Pegula, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Felix Auger Aliassime, Maria Sakkari, Elina Svitolina, Alexander Zverev, Karolína Muchová and Aslan Karatsev – These are just a few of the prominent names in tennis that we’ve recently seen sporting the iconic blue retro Adidas SST Jacket. It seems that this jacket has become the must-have fashion piece of the season for both male and female players, making it the most worn item at the US Open. We have discovered why it’s so popular and that there is more to it than just the cool retro design, which has made the jacket a favorite among the tennis elite…
In the world of tennis, fashion has always played a significant role, transcending the boundaries of the court and becoming a symbol of style and identity for athletes and fans alike. However, the 2023 US Open has witnessed a striking fashion statement that goes beyond trends and resonates with the rich history of the sport. Tennis stars from around the globe have been spotted wearing the iconic blue retro Adidas SST Jacket. But what’s the story behind this fashionable tribute, and why has this particular jacket become the centerpiece of attention? The answer lies in the Adidas FW23 New York collection, which is a heartfelt tribute to one of tennis’s greatest legends: Billie Jean King! Her victory in the Battle of the Sexes exactly 50 year ago was a groundbreaking moment that shattered gender barriers in sports. In 1973 90 million people worldwide watched Billie Jean King defeat Bobby Riggs in the legendary tennis match, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3. Moreover three years earlier she also played a pivotal role in the founding of the Women’s Tennis Association. The WTA was established to promote and protect the interests of women professional tennis players, securing equal opportunities, prize money, and recognition for female athletes in a historically male-dominated sport. Billie Jean King’s dedication to gender equality and her contributions to the formation of the WTA have left an enduring legacy in the world of tennis and continue to inspire generations of female athletes.
The SST Jacket, a key piece in the Adidas FW23 New York collection, draws inspiration from the classic adidas tennis tracksuits of the era when Billie Jean King was at the peak of her career. This jacket is more than just an article of clothing; it’s a symbol of empowerment, resilience, and breaking barriers. By wearing the blue retro Adidas SST Jacket, tennis stars are not only paying homage to a tennis icon but also conveying a powerful message about the importance of gender equality in sports and society.
“Tennis history shows that greatness is never defined by gender. It hasn’t always been easy to choose this path – players like Billie Jean King had to fight for the right to be on the same court as men and gain respect from fellow players. I’m proud to be an advocate for gender equality in sport – both on and off the court.”
Jessica Pegula
Another standout piece in the Adidas FW23 New York collection is the updated Avacourt shoe, which perfectly encapsulates the fusion of heritage and innovation. Launched in 2022, this shoe is designed to provide optimal support to women on the tennis court, featuring a women’s specific last, increased torsion, softer materials, and midfoot support. It’s a shoe created for champions, much like the woman it honors. For the 2023 season, the Avacourt is refreshed to bridge the gap between today’s athletic demands and the iconic style worn by Billie Jean King 50 years ago. With its color story and key material updates, including a retro suede leather tongue and terry cloth-lined heel collar, the Avacourt embodies the essence of Billie Jean King’s era while meeting the performance needs of today’s athletes.
While the Adidas SST Jacket and Avacourt shoes take center stage, the New York collection offers a range of pieces for both men and women. From the Tennis Modular Leotard Aeroready Pro with a detachable skirt to the Tennis Hear.Rdy Freelift Polo Shirt Pro for men, each piece is designed to meet the demands of modern tennis while paying homage to a tennis legend’s legacy. Tennis stars who wear these pieces on the court are not only embracing fashion but also standing up for a powerful message of equality and empowerment that transcends the boundaries of the game.
Photos: © Adidas
