You don’t have to be a budding pro to have heard about the latest trend dominating the collective consciousness: tenniscore. From fashion to film, the aesthetic du jour is the latest in a line of culturally-inspired trends that flourish online – its predecessors including the rural escapism of cottagecore and the fizzy fuchsia of Barbiecore.
As modern trends often do, the aesthetic gained traction on TikTok, where there are currently 92.5 million posts devoted to #tenniscore. These include high-street shopping hauls that emulate courtside chic, hair tutorials that teach viewers how to achieve the perfect swishy pony-plait, and slideshows of archival imagery of players like Anna Kournikova and Serena Williams. Elsewhere online, Pinterest searches for “tennis aesthetic” have reportedly increased by 37.5 percent in the last year alone, and retailer Net-a-Porter has noted a 314 percent increase in searches for ‘tennis’. Moreover, fashion resale app Depop has reported that searches for tennis skirts have risen by more than 50 percent in recent months.
The Influence of Fashion in Tenniscore
Fashion has a long-held love affair with tennis, but it has reached new heights lately, with polo tops, skorts, and riffs on other court-ready classics showing up in collections from major fashion houses including Miu Miu and Celine. This year also marked Lacoste’s return to Paris Fashion Week, which was held at Stade Roland-Garros and was inspired, according to new creative director Pelagia Kolotouros, by the brand’s tennis heritage.
Must-Watch Films and Events
Then there’s the effect of Challengers, the recently released film from director Luca Guadagnino, which follows a former tennis prodigy turned coach played by Zendaya. The actor’s press tour outfits had fans – and the internet at large – enraptured, presenting a masterclass in elevated tenniscore with floor-length crisp white gowns and splashes of tennis-ball lime. A glossy adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s bestselling novel Apples Never Fall, which centres on a tennis-obsessed family in West Palm Beach, is bringing the trend to the small screen via Apple TV. And with Wimbledon on the horizon, plus the continued rise of pickleball (a racquet sport that has attracted high-profile fans including George Clooney and Taylor Swift), tenniscore shows no signs of slowing down.
Top Hotels for Your Tenniscore Experience
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Cap d’Antibes, South of France
For tenniscore with a touch of timeless Slim Aarons glamour, head for Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, known for hosting the great and the good for long, languid summers on the Côte d’Azur. There are five clay courts here, surrounded by Aleppo pines and fragrant rose gardens open until the early evening so guests can enjoy games at golden hour.
The Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Florida
Still fresh from a recent $200 million makeover, this sprawling South Florida hotspot embodies a vintage American tenniscore fantasy. The facilities include a fully serviced Racquet Club, featuring 16 tennis courts, six pickleball courts, and a clubhouse for post-match cocktails. Guests will find plenty of reasons to linger.
La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Mallorca
Belmond’s Mallorcan property is infused with artistic spirit, featuring a gallery and a partnership with top coaching company LUX Tennis. With courts shaded by the mighty Tramuntana Mountains and tailored coaching for all levels, it’s a haven for both relaxation and athletic activity.
The Retreat at Elcot Park, Newbury, UK
This charming hotel boasts a pristine tennis court, adding a welcome touch of indulgence. Guests can enjoy games surrounded by serene countryside and can even book one-on-one coaching with tennis professionals.
Amanyara, Turks & Caicos
Set amidst a tropical nature reserve, Amanyara offers plenty of space for sport. The hotel includes four floodlit courts and hosts tennis clinics led by top players.
Villa d’Este, Lake Como, Italy
Known for its stunning landscaped gardens, Villa d’Este also features eight lakeside tennis courts where guests can enjoy breathtaking views while playing.
Puente Romano, Marbella, Spain
This resort’s premium tennis courts have attracted top players. The year-round calendar of tennis camps and tournaments makes it a must-visit for serious tennis enthusiasts.
Beaverbrook Townhouse, London, UK
Located opposite Cadogan Gardens, Beaverbrook Townhouse provides convenient access to classic Chelsea courts. Guests can easily enjoy a game during their stay.
What to Pack for Your Tenniscore Travel
To embody the tenniscore aesthetic while traveling, consider packing stylish yet comfortable outfits suitable for the court. Look for items like pleated skirts, polo shirts, and sporty accessories that reflect the chic tennis vibe.
Conclusion
Embracing the tenniscore trend offers a unique blend of style, culture, and leisure. Whether enjoying a luxury stay at a top hotel or simply dressing the part, the appeal of tenniscore is undeniable. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your passion for the sport while indulging in exquisite experiences.
