Novak Djokovic recently wore a very interesting outfit, which isn’t something fans typically associate with him, but he admitted it's part of an effort to be more fashionable.
Fashion might not be the first thing most people think about when they think of tennis, but it's been a part of the sport in various forms over the years. Whether it's some interesting outfit worn by Bethanie Mattek-Sands, one of the Williams sisters, or just a stylish all-white Roger Federer Wimbledon outfit, it garners interest.
Clothes have long been an expression of personality. They can express somebody's personality through their style or signify status. Clothes are a huge part of an individual’s presentation because they are one of the first things people notice when meeting others.
Still, it’s never been an area that Djokovic pursued heavily. He always looked very nice and presentable on and off the tennis courts, but he wasn’t considered a fashionista.
Recently, in China, ahead of the 2024 Shanghai Masters, where he's set to make his return, he appeared in a green tracksuit and sunglasses, bringing out a look that would fit in the 90s.
Fans immediately became interested, and he was asked about that outfit in an interview with the ATP, during which he explained that he might be entering his fashion era.
"It's not only vibe, it is a whole language of terminology behind, and I'm just trying to get a grasp on it. I am enjoying the new style, to be honest, as I mentioned to you off the camera."
"I've received some help now from, of course, my wife and also some friends and people that are in fashion. I'm getting some advice, and I'm starting to expand on what I can wear and what I wasn't wearing for a long time."
It's an interesting development in the 37-year-old's career, but he's not the first player to dip his toes into fashion. Federer has had custom-made clothes for ages, and while Djokovic has had them as well, they were more on the sporty side.
It wasn't so much classic fashion, but it seems to be a growing interest of his right now, which wasn't in the past.
"I wasn't caring as much for fashion in the past off the court. It was more of a conservative style, jeans or chinos and polo, and that was kind of my vibe for a long time. But now, I'm stepping out of the box a little bit. The green tracksuit, that was a good one. It brought back the 90s. I'm a kid of the 90s."
It was quite a daring outfit, and Djokovic knew it. He noticed some people staring, but he enjoyed the experience. Fans will be on the lookout for some crazy outfits on the tennis courts as well.