When it comes to tennis fashion, you can count on champion Serena Williams to make a statement on the court with her eye-catching, unique outfits.
Her recent number at the U.S. Open was no exception.
On Monday, Williams stepped out in a one-shoulder illusion top and black tulle skirt designed by Off-White founder, Virgil Abloh, in collaboration with Nike. She paired the ensemble with fishnet tights and Nike sneakers.
Williams won her first-round match against Poland’s Magda Linette while sporting this outfit that has fans going crazy in the best way. Check out some of the compliments that have been rolling in on social media.
Here’s @serenawilliams as she debuts this stunning ensemble from the “Queen Collection” tonight in her first match at the #USOpen - her fashion collaboration with @Nike x @virgilabloh. 🎾 #fashion #style #sports #tennis #Nike #VirgilAbloh #NewYork #SerenaWilliams pic.twitter.com/ANNJEqgTW4
— Tenille. (@tenilleclarke1) August 28, 2018
Also goes to show that sis will win regardless of her fit. pic.twitter.com/vbgUz2xFsY
— Blk Girl Culture (@blkgirlculture) August 28, 2018
Last week, the French Tennis Federation banned a black bodysuit Williams had worn while playing in the French Open in May, with the president of the federation stating that “Serena’s outfit this year, for example, would no longer be accepted. You have to respect the game and the place.”
Serena's surprise bodysuit at Roland Garros this year would not be tolerated in the future, says French Tennis Federation Bernard Giudicelli. Via @YCochennec pic.twitter.com/yNKNbVGdXM
— Christopher Clarey (@christophclarey) August 23, 2018
Williams made her debut post-maternity leave in France, wearing what she described as a “Wakanda-inspired catsuit.” The outfit was also designed to prevent blood clots, an issue that caused her serious problems after giving birth to her daughter Alexis Olympia on Sept. 1, 2017.
The champ dedicated the catsuit to “all the moms out there who had a tough recovery from pregnancy”.
Catsuit anyone? For all the moms out there who had a tough recovery from pregnancy—here you go. If I can do it, so can you. Love you all!! pic.twitter.com/xXb3BKDGNF
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) May 29, 2018
Williams didn’t seem phased by the ban in her recent U.S. Open conference.
.@serenawilliams made light of the French Open banning her catsuit: pic.twitter.com/Ltyx7BUcWM
— ESPN (@espn) August 25, 2018
“I think that obviously, the Grand Slams have a right to do what they want to do,” Williams said Saturday, according to The Washington Post. “I feel like if and when, or if they know that some things are for health reasons, then there’s no way that they wouldn’t be okay with it. So I think it’s fine. The president of the French Federation, he’s been really amazing. He’s been so easy to talk to. My whole team is basically French, so, yeah, we have a wonderful relationship.”
“Everything’s fine, guys,” she responded to reporters. “When it comes to fashion, you don’t want to be a repeat offender.”
Though Williams is playing it cool, the ban has stirred up controversy with many voicing their opinions on social media — including fellow U.S. tennis greats Andy Roddick and Chris Evert.
This is so dumb and shortsighted it hurts. Sometimes it’d be nice if the sport got out of its own way. https://t.co/As85ymSiFK
— andyroddick (@andyroddick) August 25, 2018
Well said…. https://t.co/vMeGDKmOXH
— Chris Evert (@ChrissieEvert) August 25, 2018
Now, many people are pointing out that dominating in an in-your-face tutu is the perfect response to the ban.
Serena Williams competing in a black tutu and fishnet leggings is the best clapback in history. There can never be another Serena Williams!!
— Juliana Lazarus (@juliej_lazarus) August 28, 2018
What do you think about the ban on Williams’ tennis court fashion?