From Tennis to Pickleball: The Esquire Racquet Sports Style Guide

Make no mistake—this isn’t just about looking good while sipping a spritz courtside. The world of men’s fashion is rallying behind the tenniscore trend, where athletic functionality meets timelessness.

The resurgence of racquet sports like tennis, pickleball, and paddle has spilled into lifestyle dressing, inspiring a generation to embrace a wardrobe rooted in clean lines, elegant tailoring, and nostalgic preppy flair. This isn’t your granddad’s country-club look. Today’s tenniscore is sharper, more refined, and tailored for the modern man who knows how to mix tradition with a splash of contemporary flair.

So, what’s the appeal? Tenniscore is essentially a cheat code for looking effortlessly put-together. It’s all about embracing preppy staples—think collared shirts, white shorts, and knitwear—while keeping things light, clean, and versatile. Add some tailored trousers and a cashmere sweater slung over your shoulders, and you’re practically a walking Ralph Lauren ad.

Whether you're a quiet-luxury kind of guy or someone who’s just into functional fashion that works for all occasions, tenniscore has got you covered. And yes, tennis is having its moment IRL, too. With participation soaring worldwide, it’s no wonder the aesthetic is serving as much inspiration as the game itself. Add Netflix’s Break Point and Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers (2024) into the mix, and you’ve got a trend that’s about more than just polos and clean sneakers (though we love those too). It’s a lifestyle that says, “I’ve got my life together, and I look damn good doing it.”

So how do you do tenniscore like a pro? Historically, the ability to keep those crisp tennis whites clean and stain-free wasn’t just a fashion statement—it was a mark of discipline and skill. Pair your sharp polo knit with tailored white shorts or cream trousers, and don’t skimp on the details—a cable-knit vest or a lightweight sweater can elevate your look from casual to courtside chic. Footwear is key here, and while scuff-free white sneakers are a staple, loafers or boat shoes can add an extra dose of polish. Accessorise with a classic watch or aviators, and you’re golden.

Below is Esquire India’s ultimate guide to the best homegrown and international brands—from court essentials to designer tees.

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren and Wimbledon go hand in hand, like strawberries and cream or a chilled cup of Pimms. With its timeless, preppy designs, the brand’s Wimbledon collection ensures you’re always the best-dressed—on or off the court.

Lacoste

Lacoste offers iconic pieces with a sporty twist—you can thank Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev for the inspiration. As brand ambassadors, they showcase collections that redefine elegance on and off the court. One browse through Lacoste’s lineup, and you’ll see why.

Bluorng

Bluorng’s Polo collection reinvents the classic button-up with sleek stripes and bold contrast prints. Our top pick? The pastel pink striped polo paired with white shorts—for the perfect serve.

Shantanu & Nikhil Cricket Club

SNCC blends contemporary fashion with sportswear for the modern urban Indian who craves both style and performance. Think striped polos, logo-emblazoned varsity jackets, and athletic accessories that speak to the sneakerhead in you.

Sporty And Rich

A New York-based brand renowned for blending fitness with fashion, is now making its move into equestrianism. Staying true to its vintage-inspired, elegant aesthetic, Sporty And Rich draws on a palette of soft beiges, tobaccos, and blues—colours synonymous with quiet luxury—that embodies timeless sophistication.

Biskit

Biskit reinvents classics with an edge, each limited to just 21 editions. The best part? Their unisex designs are made to be shared with your loved ones, regardless of gender.

Hugo Boss

With its minimalist approach to design, Hugo Boss delivers clean, elevated pieces that make a statement, redefining court-side fashion with flair. Whether you’re playing or grabbing some coffee after—you can’t go wrong with their classic co-ords.