FASHION FIX: Nike spring looks for Serena, Sharapova, Azarenka, and Li

It's spring, right?! Uh, not quite. Winter is still hanging on here in NYC, clinging to life with its frozen talons (can you tell I hate winter?). At least there are parts of the world and this country where it's bright, warm, and people are half dressed. Miami is one of those places, and it's where the ATP and WTA tours are heading for the second Masters 1000 and Premier tourneys, respectively, at the Sony Open. You can see the draws here.

It's also where Nike is debuting some of their spring looks for their lady ballers. Check 'em out:

Top seed Serena Williams will be wearing the Force Pleated Knit Dress. The spring-esque color blocking, which I love, reminds me that spring is officially starting tomorrow. BUT YOU WOULDN'T KNOW IT BECAUSE IT WAS SNOWING HERE. YEAH, SNOWING.

Indian Wells champ and third seed Maria Sharapova will be, of course, working duds from her eponymous collection for Nike including the Premier Maria Tank paired with the Premier Maria Skort. Nice green.

Why does it always seem Victoria Azarenka, the No. 2 seed, always gets the short end of the fashion stick with Nike? Her Australian Open dress was a flop, and this outfit - the Force Printed Tank with the Force Flouncy Woven Skort - isn't going to blind you with its incredibly fashionable design. And that includes the disco print on the straps.

Here's the plus and it's a big one: SHE'S BACK. It will be fantastic to see fifth seed Li Na in action after being out since rehabbing the ankle she injured during her run to the Australian Open final. She'll be working the Force Pure Tennis Top paired with the Pleated Knit Skirt. Pretty basic and typical for her. I'm just excited she's showing up at all.

[Photo(s) credit: Nike Tennis Facebook Page]

Sloane Stephens phones it in at the Australian Open, so to speak

"DM me guuurl!"

One of the best moments from Sloane Stephens's breakthrough win over Serena Williams in the Australian Open quarterfinals was right after the pair shook hands. The 19-year old went straight for her phone to see if her mom had texted her. Probably, but she couldn't tell from the 233 messages she had waiting for her. Kids. She also said after the match, "I hope to have more Twitter followers" which she does now (43,321 and climbing). That's what it's all about, folks.

It was reminiscent of a 17-year old Maria Sharapova going for her dad's phone to call her mom after winning Wimbledon over, of course, ReRe. She famously wasn't able to grab a signal leaving everyone in giggles and securing the newly-minted star with a phone sponsor, Motorola, one of her many future sponsors (at 3:35):



I guess a teenage win over the 15-time Grand Slammer at a major is worth a phone check. And a lucrative sponsorship. Smartphone brands and carriers take note.

[Photo(s) credit: @TheJordanMiller]

FASHION FIX: Tomas Berdych in H&M

No, you're not looking at Tomas Berdych's practice kit. The Czech baller, who had been sponsored by Nike for years, is now working H&M, beginning at this year's Australian Open and off court as well.

I'm all for simple and classic, but these duds are severely under the top. Maybe it was a rush job or something. Hopefully, the fashion brand will give him something more like fashion in the near future. 

As for the shorts, I'm not sure what everyone is bitching about on Twitter. They're not that short. Gimme 70's McEnroe/Borg crotch huggers any day on ballers with legs like Big Berd. Besides, someone needed to carry Vika's torch this year.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty]

VIDEO VAULT: Djokopova

Need I say more?

[Via: HEAD ]

VIDEO VAULT: Sharapova loves HEAD

You gotta give it up for Maria Sharapova. She's a much better actress than she's EVAH been as you can see in this new promo for her new HEAD Instinct racquet. Need proof? Well, let me take you down memory lane, back to a time when the Russian blondezilla was just ending her long injury layoff and hair wings were all the rage. They were all the rage, right?

[Via: HEAD]

VIDEO VAULT: In the shower and in bed with Andy Murray

Click here to watch the full video

Yeah. It's exactly how it sounds. The Brit baller is starring in a new short film going viral for his sponsor HEAD. It's a promo for their Facebook page in which fans can interact with Muzz throughout Wimbledon.

Here's how: Fans should visit and "LIKE" the HEAD FB page (click here) to gain access to exclusive content, prizes and tweets by Muzz. They can leave personalized messages for him on the page and his faves will be adorned on the racquet bag he carries out for his matches at the All England Club.

Boy, if this is a day in the life of Muzz then I'm def surprised. I thought he was a one woman kinda guy (hiya, Kim) but he's got all kinds of different people with him in all kinds of interesting places. And, apparently, it's ALL WORTH IT. What a man whore.

Check out Muzz in the new adidas duds he'll be wearing at Wimby after the jump...

Celebrating 40 years of Lacoste at Roland Garros

I wanted to give props to Lacoste for the 40 years of sponsoring one of the best tourneys on the planet, Roland Garros. Of course, I needed to start with the great kits they gave their lady ballers this year (love the boys, too, but I showed my appreciation already), in this case Sam Stosur + Alize Cornet, and the outfits for the chair umpires and line judges:

The French sportswear brand has also dedicated a section of their website to mark this milestone:

It features a fun video highlighting their heritage, the 2011 Roland Garros Collection and a special edition polo and t-shirt for men and women celebrating the partnership:

Each piece showcases a triple logo: the iconic crocodile, the Roland Garros trophy and the official RG logo.

So, if you get the chance check it out!

[Photo(s): Getty Images, AFP PHOTO / MIGUEL MEDINA]

VIDEO VAULT: Charlie called. He wants his Angels back.

Maria Sharapova and WTA tour sponsor Sony Ericsson revealed the six lady ballers who will be taking part in the Xperia Hot Shots initiative during a launch party in South Beach, Miami ahead of the Sony Ericsson Open.

Bethanie Mattek-Sands, Heather Watson, Alize Cornet, Sabine Lisicki, Sorana Cirstea and Dominika Cibulkova were chosen to take part in the web-based series which will help them "realize their dreams" (aren't they doing THAT already?) by giving them exclusive access to a bunch of really cool events thereby helping grow their Facebook fan base (see the page here.) The lady baller with the biggest base gets a "support deal" from Sony Ericsson. No idea what that means exactly.

There's also a dedicated YouTube page where these webisodes will premiere. It's a bit Charlie's Angels to me - not that there's anything wrong with that. But the girls need more high-waisted pants, hair flipping and background explosions. Yes, definitely more explosions!



[Via: MariaSharpova.com]

(UPDATED) VIDEO VAULT: Steamy Spanish sex vs. sleek Swiss style - who wins?

Rafael Nadal and his infamous ass-ets pose in their Emporio Armani undies and jeans in this teaser for their upcoming commercial campaign while Roger Federer and his lovely locks pose for the renowned lens of Mario Testino during a photoshoot for sponsor Credit Suisse. 



It's not really fair to compare the two ballers and their videos. I mean, one makes you want to chomp down on some meaty chorizo while the other makes you want to open a Swiss bank account.

Case closed - at least for me.

UPDATE: Full-length Rafa here (thanks Brandy!)

[Via: Racked & GoToTennis]

After his US Open win will Nadal grab the biggest piece of the pie?

And the kudos keep on coming in for Rafael Nadal.

The Mallorcan Matador has clinched the season-ending No. 1 ranking for the second time in his career according to the ATP World Tour after winning his first US Open title and completing the Career Slam over the weekend. He also owns this year's Roland Garros and Wimbledon championships and earned three consecutive Masters 1000 Series titles at Monte Carlo, Rome and Madrid.

"It has been an incredible season - one of my best ever, if not the best," he said in a statement. "Winning the US Open together with Roland Garros and Wimbledon, as well as the three back-to-back (ATP World Tour) Masters 1000s in Europe, was not easy. I worked very hard to get back to the top and it feels really good to know I will end the year as No.1."

No kidding. And, as if that awesome news weren't enough an article out today by Bloomberg.com tips the 24-year old to surpass Roger Federer in endorsements by virtue of his achievements so far this year. In August, Fed topped Forbes magazine's list of tennis' top earners with an estimated $43 million in yearly earnings (includes prize money, endorsements, appearance fees, etc.) followed by Maria Sharapova with $24.5 million and  Rafa in third place with $21 million (third place never looked so nice, eh?)

That's a pretty huge leap to the front line but his management agency, IMG Worldwide Inc., is focused on ramping up his visibility here in the U.S. and aligning him with brands that speak to his values.

"Again he proved to everybody that he has no limits,” said Fernando Soler, head of the tennis division at IMG. “He is an amazing ambassador for any brand, and I think that it is our obligation now to target the U.S. market and deliver, for him.”

There's so much more Rafa could be doing in the US market, but I think it'll take a little longer for him not because of his current grasp of the English language (though, like his game, it has improved dramatically over the years) but mostly because of his own desire to find the right balance between tennis, off-court demands and his personal life. I don't think he's interested or could necessarily handle the exposure and demand on his time that too many of these activities would require the way Fed has over the years. They're different breeds. He may opt for less opportunities so he can have more time at home in Mallorca with family and friends, a stated priority for him.

But, that being said, there's still a lot of room for Rafa to grow his 'brand' here even with any set limitations, and certainly with the win at Flushing Meadows the demand is there. And growing.

[Photos: Getty Images]

MEDIA MASHUP: Henin, Murray, Ivanovic and Tsonga help adidas celebrate the Barricade

 

adidas held an event last night at their store in Soho, NYC to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Barricade. Justine Henin, Andy Murray, Ana Ivanovic and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga were on hand to discuss their fave stories about the popular shoe and to help cut the Barricake:

I can't vouch for how it tasted (we weren't offered a slice so I stuck to the vodka at the bar - a little too much) but they sure did a good job of recreating the shoe. It was a pretty fun, intimate event and the ballers seemed to be in a relaxed mood taking some interviews and posing for pictures with the guests. I also got to spend time with The Karens of Global Village Tennis News and Tennis Identity and the boys of Tennis Served Fresh, Erwin + Nick. Make sure to check out TI's q & a with the Serb and TSF's q & a with Justine.

Oh and I can't forget about the highlight of my night. Thanks NaturAna! *smiles*

Here's video of the q & a session with the ballers and some footage of them cutting the Barricake. AND, there are more images from the night below!

[Photo(s): DtL]

FASHION FIX: Melanie Oudin to showcase "COURAGE" adidas style

Here's a look at the new, customized adidas Barricades 6.0 Melanie Oudin will be working during her campaign at this year's US Open. The 18-year old, who's "BELIEVE" kicks made headlines during her thrilling run to her first Grand Slam quarterfinal last season, designed them herself at miadidas.com and chose the word "COURAGE" this time around.

“The reason I chose the word COURAGE is because in order to believe you have to have the courage to do so,” said Mels. “Courage to me means playing with no fear and going for it no matter what. You can believe in yourself so much but unless you have the courage to go on the court and put yourself on the line every time you won't make it. You need courage and belief to make it to the top.”

I'm liking this color combo much better than last year's for sure. Let's hope Mels, who's entering Flushing Meadows on a 4-match losing streak and carrying a huge bag of ranking points on her back, will somehow let her game do the talking as well.

Visit miadidas.com for more details on how to make your own customized pair.


[Photo(s): adidas]

VIDEO VAULT: Roger Federer can't get with 'this' or 'that'

Here's a funny outtake from Roger Federer's recent promo spot for the new Wilson BLX. The 16-time Grand Slammer can't seem to pronounce the word 'this' but instead gives the director a 'diss' - in pronunciation that is. And you can forget 'that'. Total FAIL.

Check out the final cut here.

Ah, this video brings to mind an early 90's classic by Black Sheep that's getting some commercial play right now. C'mon you know which one I'm talking about. Don't by coy.

CHECK IT:



[Video: Wilson]

Boris Becker + Polo Ralph Lauren join forces for Legends Clinic

Clothing giant Polo Ralph Lauren is hosting its first ever Legends Clinic to celebrate its fifth year as Official Outfitter for next week's Wimbledon. The live interactive virtual tennis clinic will be held on Thursday, June 17, at 11 am EST and will feature 3-time champion Boris Becker answering e-mailed questions, demonstrating techniques and offering tips on how to improve your game.

The clinic will be streamed exclusively over at RalphLauren.com/Wimbledon. You can also submit your questions to the tennis legend at the site as well!

[Photo(s): Ralph Lauren]

FASHION FIX: La Monf wins in Madrid, kisses K-Swiss hello

Gael Monfils played and won his first match in two months when he defeated compatriot Stephane Robert 6-2, 7-5 in the first round of Madrid today. The Frenchie baller has been dealing with a hand injury which has kept him off the ATP World Tour since Indian Wells in March. He'll face either Fabio Fognini or Philipp Petzschner in the next round.

La Monf also debuted his brand-spanking new K-Swiss gear during the match. The 23-year old, who will represent both apparel and footwear, had been with Nike for years before making the switch. The company made the formal announcement today in a press release.

"I am thrilled to join such an iconic tennis brand with a great reputation for athlete collaboration," said Monfils. "I am looking forward to working with K-Swiss on developing my own line of clothes to launch next year and growing our relationship in the years to come."

La Monf joins Mardy Fish, Sam Querrey, The Bryan Brothers, Vera Zvonareva, Alona Bondarenko and Liezel Huber in the K-Swiss stable.

I'd say it's a pretty decent coup to grab him from Nike, especially after their failed attempts at luring Novak Djokovic + Andy Murray over. He's now the highest ranked boy baller they have in their lineup.

Now only if he could start winning some big ones. Or even some medium ones. Just win, damn it.


[Photo(s): Reuters, Getty Images]

PHOTO OP: NaturAna does dorky good

Some images of Ana Ivanovic featured on the exterior of sponsor Verano's ZIRA shopping centre in Belgrade.

I love seeing the Serb at her most dorkalicious. But question: did the hair come with that helmet?



[Photo(s): AnaIvanovic.com]

Nole drops adidas for 10-year deal with Sergio Tacchini

Novak Djokovic will be the newest face of Sergio Tacchini starting in January 2010, leaving longtime sponsor adidas and putting to rest rumors of a switch to K-Swiss.

The Serb announced the brand-spanking new 10-year sponsorship deal with the Italian sports apparel brand this weekend in London where he's seeking to defend his title at the ATP World Tour Finals.

"My own idols Pete Sampras and John McEnroe have won almost all titles... wearing the Sergio Tacchini logo”, said Novak.

“I am pleased to partner with Sergio Tacchini, a strong brand with a true tennis DNA and am honoured to become a part of this legacy."

Nole joins ballers Tommy Robredo, Ivo Karlovic, Victor Hanescu, Olivier Rochus, Steve Darcis, Flavia Pennetta and Sara Errani in the ST stable.

This partnership with a Grand Slam champ and potential World No. 1 is a total coup for Sergio Tacchini and should help their product get global exposure and brand recognition. They make stylish, well-made gear and should be a great fit for the Serb.

Plus, a 10-year sponsorship means Nole will be wearing their duds for what would likely be the remainder of his career - talk about puttin' a ring on it.

(Photo: NovakDjokovic.rs)

(UPDATED) Muzz to make leap from Fred Perry to adidas starting in 2010

Those whispers I mentioned about Andy Murray leaving Fred Perry for adidas became a loud official statement today.

The Brit baller will be joining the German sports apparel giant beginning in January, according to adidas spokesperson Linda Murphy, and will be wearing the triple-striped Competition gear and Barricades in his own exclusive colorways when he represents his country at the Hopman Cup in January.

In a joint press release on their site Muzz said he was looking forward to working with the historic brand:

I’m really excited to be joining Adidas as they are a massive global sports brand with a credible heritage in tennis. Joining a list of stars who have worn the brand, including Muhammad Ali and David Beckham, is an honor. I’m in no doubt that this deal will help me both on and off the court.

VP of Global Sports Marketing, Jocelyn Robiot, said the World No.4 is the right fit for adidas:

We are delighted to welcome Andy Murray in to the adidas tennis family. Andy is a young, dynamic player that embodies adidas’ pure performer qualities. He is a very driven and dedicated athlete and we look forward to working with him on developing our Barricade products and helping him achieve his Impossible in 2010.

Okay so now we've confirmed this sponsorship news. Will Novak Djokovic star in his own "Sam Sequel" and leave adidas for K-Swiss?

UPDATE: The deal with adidas is reportedly worth 15 million pounds or $24.8 million over 5 years. Gah.

(Photo: Getty)

So long adidas: Sam signs seven-figure deal with K-Swiss

Sam Querrey will be adding a fourth stripe to the three he currently sports with adidas.

According to Sports Business Journal, the 22-year old American has signed a seven-figure apparel and shoe deal with K-Swiss and will debut the new duds beginning in 2010. Sam's contract with adidas is set to expire at the end of the year and discussions were held with a number of high-profile companies about a possible sponsorship deal according to his agent, John Tobias, who confirmed the details with Tennis Week this morning:

We are very excited about Sam's new partnership with K-Swiss. We had discussions with several other companies including Nike, Lacoste and Li Ning. Ultimately, adidas had the ability to match any offer and they passed on matching the K-Swiss proposal. Sam is excited to be with a smaller company where he will join Mardy Fish as the lead endorser in the U.S.

Along with the two Americans K-Swiss also houses The Flying Bondarenko Sisters Alona + Kateryna, Tommy Haas, Vera Zvonareva, and Anna Kournikova.

Of course, the end of the year is always ripe with rumored sponsorship switches as current contracts expire and lucrative offers hit the table. Novak Djokovic is said to be considering a "Sam Sequel" and taking his own leap from adidas to K-Swiss while whispers have been growing about Andy Murray leaving Fred Perry for the German sports giant in the very near future.

Stay tuned!

(Photo: SamQuerrey.com)

RogReport: Keeping it close to home

After 6 weeks off to enjoy Mirka & The Mangoes, Roger Federer is ready for a return to action.

The Swiss maestro is the top seed in Basel and will be chasing his fourth title at home this week. He made sure to send FedFans a video message via his Facebook page (above) before the start of the tourney.

Rog also attended an FC Basel football match, his fave team of course, looking all kinds of stylish. Nice looks.



The 15-time Grand Slammer also became global ambassador for Swiss premium chocolate maker Lindt & Sprungli. Ok, as a chocoholic with a serious addiction I'm officially jealous.


(Photo via GoToTennis)