Tennis Player Forced to Cover Sponsor Logo at Tournament

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American tennis player Frances Tiafoe was required to cover up a sponsor logo on his shirt during his first-round match at the Delray Beach Open due to ATP Tour rules limiting the number of logos players can display on their clothing. The chair umpire approached Tiafoe before the match and used a marker pen to partially conceal the Barclays logo on his sleeveless top, as Tiafoe had already reached the maximum number of allowed logos.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the complex rules and business dynamics around sponsorship and branding in professional tennis. Top players rely on lucrative sponsorship deals to support their careers, but must carefully navigate the ATP's regulations on logo placement and size. The situation also shows how even high-profile players can face unexpected issues due to these rules.

The details

Before his first-round match, chair umpire Joshua Brace approached Frances Tiafoe and used a marker pen to partially cover up a Barclays logo on Tiafoe's sleeveless shirt. This was necessary because the ATP Tour limits players to two logos on the front of their shirts, and Tiafoe's kit already featured his clothing sponsor Lululemon as well as a logo for the company UKG. While players are allowed two additional logos on their sleeves, Tiafoe's sleeveless shirt left him without that extra space.

• Tiafoe faced Rinky Hijikata of Australia in the first round of the 2026 Delray Beach Open on February 17, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Tiafoe will face either Zachary Svajda or Aleksandar Kovacevic in his next match at the Delray Beach Open.