From Centre Court to Casual Wear: Tennis Style, Arthur Ashe, and Wimbledon’s Timeless Elegance
The influence of early 20th-century tennis style on modern menswear is often overlooked, yet it forms the foundation for some of today’s most enduring casual classics. Before tennis whites became a symbol of athletic refinement, the sport’s sartorial elements introduced practical yet elegant designs that quickly transcended the court.
Take, for example, the iconic polo shirt. Its roots trace back to tennis legend René Lacoste, who in the 1920s grew frustrated with the restrictive, buttoned-up tennis attire of the time. Lacoste’s introduction of a lightweight, short-sleeved cotton shirt with a soft collar was a quiet revolution: a garment combining comfort and sophistication that seamlessly transitioned from sport to everyday wear. Similarly, Fred Perry, a three-time Wimbledon champion, drew from his own experience to create a polo that prioritised ease and functionality, marked by its distinctive twin tipping.
These pieces did more than serve the tennis players; they laid the groundwork for an entire category of modern casual wear, grounded in restraint and versatility. They are of a style that fulfils both form and function and why they remain ubiquitous to this date. Though it was the first, there remains few better examples of a polo than Lacoste. Browse the 2nd Academic selection of Lacoste Polo shirts here.
Arthur Ashe carried this lineage forward, though his contribution to the story goes far beyond clothing. When he won Wimbledon in 1975, Ashe became the first Black man to claim the gentlemen’s singles title, a landmark moment in tennis history. Known for his thoughtful playing style and calm presence, Ashe was equally admired for his poise off the court. His approach to dressing was as measured as his game. From cable-knit vests and crisp shirting to wire-rimmed glasses and tailored jackets, Ashe embodied a kind of intelligent style that remains iconic.
His image spoke volumes, especially in an era where presentation was political. Ashe didn’t simply dress well; he dressed with clarity and conviction. This made him stand out not just as an athlete, but as a figure of cultural and personal integrity.
Wimbledon, of course, is the perfect stage for such elegance. Often called the best dressed event in the world, it stands apart as one of the most visually beautiful spectacles in sport. The all-white dress code, manicured courts, and hushed etiquette create an atmosphere that is both refined and singular. It’s an event steeped in history, but alive with colour in the way it brings tradition into the present.
Since 2006, Ralph Lauren has been the tournament’s official outfitter. Their collections for Wimbledon reflect a shared commitment to classic tailoring, subtle detail, and enduring design. Whether in sharply cut blazers, functional polos or understated separates, the brand’s presentation at the tournament enhances its unique aesthetic: crisp, structured, and unmistakably Wimbledon.
The legacy of figures like Arthur Ashe, the heritage of Wimbledon, and the enduring relevance of tennis-inspired design continue to shape the way we dress today. At 2nd Academic, we’ve always looked to that intersection of sport, culture and considered clothing. Pieces that speak softly but carry real intent. Tennis style, at its best, is smart, functional and quietly assured.
Explore our latest collection of timeless menswear inspired by classic style here.
