Novak Djokovic has never shied away from bold moves on court, but this time, it’s his fashion game doing the talking – and fans have plenty to say. With his US Open campaign just around the corner, Djokovic unveiled his new Lacoste kit: a sleek, all-black outfit that immediately drew comparisons to a certain Swiss legend.
It didn’t take long for tennis fans to notice the resemblance to Roger Federer’s 2019 US Open look – a dark Uniqlo ensemble that turned heads under the lights at Arthur Ashe. At the time, Federer explained his choice as a tribute to New York’s energy, saying, “The black is a strong finale look… it resonates with memories I have of playing here in the evening.”Djokovic, however, hasn’t offered much explanation – and the silence is making the chatter louder.
“The Desperation to Be Federer?” Fans Slam the Similarity
Once Lacoste dropped the promo shots, social media erupted. One X user wrote, “The desperation to be Federer.” Another chimed in, “He wants to be Federer so bad.” Others pointed out that Federer had “branded” this aesthetic long ago during his Nike and Uniqlo days, suggesting that Djokovic was stepping into borrowed territory.
While Djokovic has always commanded respect for his game, the love-hate relationship with fans continues to follow him – especially in New York. The outfit reveal poured more fuel on that fire. “Mimicking Roger? :))))” one fan posted, calling the look unoriginal and forced.
Critics also raised practical concerns. Black might look sharp under the lights, but August in New York is brutal. Day matches under the sun could make Djokovic’s choice more about sweat than swagger. As The Athletic’s Christopher Clarey noted, “Wearing black in the New York heat? That’s a statement and a risk.”
Then there’s the elephant in the room: Djokovic is still chasing his 25th Grand Slam title. After falling short at Wimbledon, this US Open could be his best shot – or his last realistic one. But for some fans, the clothing choice suggests he’s focused on image more than history. One user summed it up bluntly: “Doesn’t matter what he wears. Sinner is far too good for him to beat.”
The Federer comparisons sting even more when you consider that Roger’s blacked-out look didn’t exactly bring him luck. He exited in the quarterfinals that year. Djokovic, ever the competitor, will hope to take the aesthetic and push it further – all the way to a title.
Fashion aside, the pressure’s on. If Novak wants to rewrite history in Flushing Meadows, he’ll need more than a new look – he’ll need vintage Djokovic. Whether or not the outfit fits the moment, we’re about to find out.
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