Who are they? Only the most stylish and fashionable athletes the world celebrates today.
They train hard, fight sweat and tears, and go through immense pressure to make their team and nation proud; yet still manage to look ridiculously good on the streets and red carpets. Who are they? Only the most stylish and fashionable athletes the world celebrates today.
From footballers to racers to tennis players, here are 13 individuals we admire not just for their sports talents, but also for their sense of style.
1. Victor Cruz
This NFL player for the Chicago Bears is well-known not just for his serious speed and American football skills, but also for his street style and love for fashion. Named the world’s most stylish athlete by Sports Illustrated in 2016, Cruz is often seen at fashion shows, such as Balmain’s and Louis Vuitton’s during Paris Fashion Week.
2. Maria Sharapova
Sophisticated and cool are two words we’d use to describe Maria Sharapova’s sense of style, as evident from her Instagram account. The Russian tennis player, Olympics silver medallist and 5 Grand Slams singles titles winner made a leap into the fashion industry when she launched her Sugarpova clothing and accessories line in collaboration with Henri Bendel in 2013. Aside from that and her eight-year deal with Nike in 2010, Maria is also often seen in designer labels including Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Gucci and Maison Margiela (see photo below).
3. LeBron James
Even those who are unfamiliar with basketball may probably have heard of LeBron James from his high-profile billion-dollar deal with Nike. Though more popular for his killer footwear, LeBron has shown his dapper side in a suit and tie in numerous occasions. Most of the time, you’ll find him with a statement jacket, jeans and signature high tops.
4. Russell Westbrook
Professional NBA player for Oklahoma City Thunder, Russell Westbrook could very well be the next LeBron James or OG Michael Jordan, from a fashion perspective, at least. Named Sports Illustrated’s most fashionable athlete this year, the fashion king has demonstrated his unique style time and time again in vibrant prints, classic denimwear and leather jackets layered over statement tees.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo
Some consider him as the new David Beckham, both on the field and in the fashion scene – and while we can’t comment on the former, Ronaldo certainly seems to be taking proactive steps in the latter. Since launching his fashion label, CR7 in 2014, the Real Madrid forward has been constantly expanding his line to include premium shirts and more recently, denimwear. When not wearing his own label, Ronaldo reportedly sports stylish pieces from the likes of Balmain, Givenchy and DSquared 2.
6. Serena Williams
This mum-to-be needs no introduction to the fashion world as the runways are now likely almost as familiar to her as the tennis court. In fact, not many know that the world’s no. 1 female tennis player actually studied fashion at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdalem. Serena has designed several collections for American company, HSN, including activewear, everyday apparel and dresses; and her fashion shows have welcomed stars like Beyonce, Anna Wintour, Ciara and Tommy Hilfiger.
7. Venus Williams
You can’t get one Williams sister without the other, and Venus has no doubt made a name for herself in fashion by launching her own label, EleVen. Known for her love of colours and prints, Venus’ style and collections embody her bright character and inspiring personality.
8. Lewis Hamilton
Not many Formula One drivers have gotten front row seats at designer fashion shows in New York, Paris and Milan, but Lewis Hamilton is one exception. The three-time F1 World Champion even sported three different looks in one day during the Off-White, Rick Owens and Louis Vuitton shows in January. To be honest, we can’t decide if we like him better in his street chic attire or classy suit (like the one below).
9. Neymar
Young Brazillian football player, Neymar may seem to share Hamilton’s fashion sense, and that’s understandable considering their close bond. However, we noticed Neymar tends to prefer black colours – black t-shirts, jackets, jeans, caps, suits – basically, every piece of clothing. That said, he still rocks bright, solid colours now and then, though his sleek style shines through both ways.
10. Alex Morgan
Alex Morgan may look like your sweet girl-next-door, but she’s so much more; namely, she’s one of America’s best soccer players, Olympic gold medallist and FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion. Wait, back to topic – she’s also a frequent fashion show attendee who has walked down the runway alongside Kendall Kardashian. When not in her soccer attire, she sure knows how to rock a frock at events and galas.
11. Nick Young
Yet another NBA basketball player to make this list is Nick Young, who plays for Golden State Warriors (formerly Los Angeles Lakers). Nicknamed Swaggy P, Nick brings his own brand of swag to the fashion industry with the launch of his line, Most Hated. As strange as the brand sounds, Nick said the idea came as a daring response to hate comments he received during his most challenging season. Other brands the basketballer dad commonly wears include Supreme, Saint Laurent and Burberry.
12. David Beckham
David Beckham may have long retired, but he remains a football legend to many and he’s clearly seen as a style icon now. The famous father of four had major collaborations with Adidas and H&M later on, releasing a menswear line synonymous with his staple style of clean tees, knits, sweatpants and of course, suits. Speaking of suits, this is one athlete (or ex-athlete) whom we believe can wear any kind of suit and still look devilishly charming.
