Zverev Criticizes Nike's 'Colorblind' Tennis Fashion

The German star praises his long-standing partnership with Adidas and calls out Nike's recent designs worn by Alcaraz and Sinner.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:01pm

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Alexander Zverev has shared his thoughts on tennis fashion, praising his custom line with Adidas while making playful remarks about Nike's recent designs worn by Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Zverev highlighted his ability to influence his on-court style through his long-standing Adidas partnership, and he praised the fashion choices of fellow player Frances Tiafoe. However, the German criticized Nike's approach, suggesting the brand has become "colorblind" in its designs.

Why it matters

Zverev's comments underscore how fashion has become an increasingly visible part of tennis culture, with players using their outfits to express their personalities and stand out both on and off the court. The ongoing rivalry between Adidas and Nike in the tennis apparel market is also highlighted.

The details

Zverev explained that his collaboration with Adidas has given him significant influence over his on-court style, allowing him to have a say in the colors and combinations he wears. He praised the new Lululemon outfits worn by Frances Tiafoe, but criticized Nike's recent designs, suggesting the brand has become "colorblind" in its approach. Zverev's remarks appeared to reference the bold outfits worn by Alcaraz and Sinner, which have divided fan opinion.

  • Zverev has had a partnership with Adidas for over 10 years.

The players

Alexander Zverev

A German professional tennis player who is currently ranked world no.4. He has a long-standing partnership with Adidas and has won 25 career titles.

Carlos Alcaraz

A Spanish professional tennis player who is known for his bold fashion choices, often wearing Nike apparel.

Jannik Sinner

An Italian professional tennis player who is currently ranked world no.2 and has also worn Nike apparel on court.

Frances Tiafoe

An American professional tennis player who has been praised for his fashion choices, particularly his Lululemon outfits.

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What they’re saying

“With Adidas, luckily, I have my own custom line, so I have a little bit of a say. I can say what I like and say what I don't like, I can say what colors I like, what combinations I like. We had a partnership for over 10 years now, so it's going great.”

— Alexander Zverev (tennistonic.com)

“I love the new stuff from Francis Tiafoe, the Lululemon stuff. I think they're doing a great job.”

— Alexander Zverev (tennistonic.com)

“I feel like Nike has become a bit colorblind lately. Not throwing any shades. Yeah, Adidas is still the best for sure.”

— Alexander Zverev (tennistonic.com)

The takeaway

Zverev's comments highlight the growing importance of fashion in tennis, with players using their on-court attire to express their personalities and stand out from the crowd. The ongoing rivalry between Adidas and Nike in the tennis apparel market is also underscored, with Zverev praising his long-standing partnership with Adidas while criticizing Nike's recent design choices.