Tennis-inspired fashion: outfits that excel both on the court and in everyday life
Tennis Apparel Market Thrives as Participation Surges
The world of tennis is experiencing a significant boom, with the global tennis clothing market projected to reach an impressive $5.2 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by increased tennis participation, rising athleisure trends, and a growing consumer focus on performance and style.
Major brands like Nike, Adidas, Wilson, and newer players such as Lululemon and ON are capitalising on this trend with innovative marketing and athlete endorsements. These brands are not only catering to the needs of professional players but also to the growing number of amateur tennis enthusiasts.
Nike, for example, remains a preferred choice for many tennis players due to its consistent fit and variety of technical fabrics. The brand's DRI-Fit tops are lighter and effectively handle sweat, while Slam shirts offer a more premium fabric, ideal for hot weather or long sessions.
Meanwhile, Wilson, historically known for racquets, has successfully expanded into tennis apparel and footwear. The brand has become a "culture creator" in tennis fashion, with marketing strategies focusing on player kits that resonate both on and off the court.
Market leaders in tennis footwear and apparel are dominated by Nike, Adidas, Asics, and New Balance, with over 58% combined market share. These brands are propelled by innovations, athlete partnerships, and strong marketing campaigns.
Emerging or crossover brands like Lululemon and ON are also gaining market share by appealing to athleisure consumers and blending performance with lifestyle fashion. The influence of celebrity athletes and social media further enhances market growth and brand visibility, as athletes increasingly shape the fusion of sportswear and streetwear.
In Ireland, dressing for tennis requires a nuanced blend of performance, mobility, and design-driven details, given the country's unpredictable weather. Brands like Varley and Sporty & Rich offer distinct styles for activewear: Varley offers polished neutrals and cosy zip-ups for layering, while Sporty & Rich channels a vintage preppy style.
The tennis apparel market is growing within the broader upward trajectory of athletic and sportswear markets. Established leaders like Nike, Adidas, and Wilson are competing with new entrants and leveraging athletes and trend-focused marketing to capture expanding consumer interest.
The uptake in tennis post-Covid has resulted in long waiting lists for tennis clubs. Wimbledon's TikTok channel provided behind-the-scenes access, celebrity sightings, and player interviews during the 2025 tournament. Many people turned to outdoor exercise during the pandemic, leading to a surge in tennis, which continues to this day.
Stable trainers explicitly designed for sprinting on the court are necessary for tennis play. In 2025, Bottega Veneta named Italian tennis star Lorenzo Musetti as their first brand ambassador, while Coco Gauff is the face of the Miu Miu x New Balance collaboration. British player Jack Draper is the face of Burberry's high summer campaign, and Carlos Alcaraz is an ambassador for Louis Vuitton.
In conclusion, the tennis apparel market is thriving, and it's an exciting time for both players and fashion enthusiasts alike. With a growing focus on performance, style, and innovation, the future of tennis apparel is looking bright.
Tennis apparel brands, such as Nike, Wilson, and Lululemon, are not only catering to professional players but also to the growing number of amateur tennis enthusiasts, capitalizing on the rising athleisure trends and surging tennis participation.
Nike's DRI-Fit tops, for example, are popular choices for tennis players, offering a lightweight fabric that effectively handles sweat during long sessions, while maintaining a blend of performance and style—a crucial aspect in today's tennis apparel market.
