Tennis Fashion Controversy
Serena Williams’ black catsuit (2018 French Open) - skin-tight Nike bodysuit inspired by Black Panther, designed to prevent blood clots post-pregnancy - sparked international debate when French Tennis Federation banned it, revealing tennis’s elitism and racism issues.
The outfit: Full-body black compression suit; medical purpose (preventing thrombosis); fashion statement (Black Panther movie inspiration)
Serena’s quote: “I feel like a warrior in it, a queen from Wakanda”
French Federation ban (August 2018): President Bernard Giudicelli said must “respect the game” with stricter dress codes
Backlash: Widely condemned as racist, sexist, outdated; medical purpose ignored
Support: Billie Jean King, WTA, fans rallied behind Serena; Nike stood by design
Nike response: Created tutus with “queen” messaging for Serena’s next French Open
Broader context: Serena faced decades of policing (hair, body, celebrations) other players didn’t
Rule change: French Open eventually loosened dress code after uproar
The controversy exposed tennis’s struggle with modernization, race, and female athletes’ autonomy over their bodies.
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/
https://www.theguardian.com/