Aaron Kr. 
As the U.S. Open rapidly approaches, Nike is making sure that their big-name endorsers are looking their best. Nike has just unveiled their U.S. Open footwear and apparel collection, featuring shoes and gear made for and worn by some of tennis’s marquee names like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova. Each player has been outfitted with some new kicks (in Federer’s case two colorways) as well as some in-game apparel. To kick off the U.S. Open excitement early, Nike recently put together a pop-up tennis court in the heart of New York City where Federer, Nadal and Williams, along with tennis legend John McEnroe, met with some local inner-city youth programs to play some tennis and give a few pointers. Keep reading for a look at Nike’s U.S. Open footwear/apparel collection and some pics from Wednesday’s NYC event. Via Freshness.
Roger Federer
Roger Federer’s contemporary style is embodied in the details and craftsmanship of his US Open day and night looks. These looks are modern, consisting of bold red and black. Federer’s in-game polos are constructed of knit Nike Dri-FIT fabric in the body and a woven Nike Dri-FIT collar for comfort and moisture management. The body of the shirt has an embossed dot pattern inspired by the subway signs of New York, and the button placket features Roger’s black RF monogram logo, applied using bonded innovation and laser cut detailing.
Roger Federer – Nike Zoom Vapor VI Tour
Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal has a contemporary style, and the energy of New York serves as the design inspiration for his apparel. Rafa is known for wearing bright colors and will debut a bold yellow and black look, inspired by the streets of New York City and its’ signature yellow taxi cabs. Also featuring a multi-row dot print across the chest, the polo is inspired by the colorful numeric subway signs of New York City. Nike Dri-FIT Mesh is incorporated in strategic places for breathability to keep Nadal cool.
Rafael Nadal – Nike Air Max Courtballistec 1.3
Serena Williams
As the 2008 US Open defending women’s singles champion, all eyes will be on Serena Williams as she looks to defend her title. Her day and night looks were inspired by cocktail party attire, with design call outs including soft pleating at the neckline, a starburst pin tuck detail at the back, and a hemline featuring a bold contrast of color. Both the magenta day dress and black night dress are made of Nike Dri-FIT knit fabric to wick away moisture and help keep Williams cool on the court.
Serena Williams – Air Max Mirabella
Maria Sharapova
Maria Sharapova is always closely involved in the design process for her apparel. Maria will wear two dresses at the Open, the first features a soft pink Dri-FIT knit body contrasted with electric yellow bonded seams. The dress features asymmetric lines that crossover to the back and create a sophisticated take on a traditional athletic racer-back style. Maria’s US Open warm-up jacket is a lightweight feminine ¾ sleeve length jacket with a ruffle at the collar and pleating along the waist and sleeve ends. Maria’s second on-court dress is inspired by the New York City skyline, and features a dramatic t-back style, keeping Maria’s shoulders free for the mobility she needs during play.
