Roger Federer, the maestro of on-court grace, is renowned not just for his silky backhands but also for his impeccable fashion sense. And it seems his influence extends beyond the Grand Slam titles, inspiring rising star Ben Shelton.

Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, has redefined how athletes approach their attire. His tailored on-court looks, often in collaboration with brands like Nike, Uniqlo, and Rolex, have set trends and turned heads. It’s no surprise then that Federer even invested in On Running, a Swiss sportswear company, and helped launch their first tennis shoe.

Shelton, a 21-year-old American and global brand ambassador for On, openly acknowledges Federer’s influence. “He can do it all,” Shelton says of Federer, “on the court, off the court, at the Met Gala, or Wimbledon – he never puts a foot wrong.”

This admiration translates to Shelton’s own wardrobe. His “gradient kit” from On has become a source of envy among his peers. “There’s a tradition in tennis,” Shelton explains, “but a lot of brands are stuck in traditional clothes. My buddies are definitely jealous – they all want to touch it!”

Shelton’s statement highlights a shift. While tennis has a rich history of classic apparel, there’s room for innovation. Federer, and now Shelton, are pushing the boundaries, proving that style can be a powerful statement both on and off the court.