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Most Iconic Accessory in Tennis History? Fans Debate Online

The Tennis Letter polled fans on the most iconic accessory or item in the sport's history.

Pat Benson

Rafael Nadal's Nike headband is considered to be among the most iconic accessories in tennis history.
Rafael Nadal's Nike headband is considered to be among the most iconic accessories in tennis history. / Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Any tennis fan with an internet connection and a social media account should follow The Tennis Letter wherever they get their news. The tennis news account focuses on ATP/WTA news and history with a dash of humor.

In addition to apparently never sleeping, the account keeps its finger on the pulse of the sport. Of course, the entire tennis world has focused on the retirement of Rafael Nadal. Tributes to Nadal include praise of his legendary style.

As we wrote earlier today when discussing Coco Gauff's denim shorts, tennis is as much style as it is substance. Many sartorial trends emerge from the court and take on new life in the fashion world.

So, today, The Tennis Letter asked its 135,200 social media followers, "What's the most iconic item or accessory in tennis history?"

It included two graphics with the options: Nadal's headband, Maria Sharapova's crystals, Steffi Graff's headband, Andre Agassi's bandana, Venus and Serena's hair beads, Billie Jean King's glasses, Bjorn Borg's entire look, Chris Evert, and Roger Federers's cardigan.

The second graphic nominated, Jannik Sinner's Gucci bag, Evert's bracelet, Serena's denim shorts, Agassi's denim shorts, Stan Wawrinka's shorts, Bethanie Mattek-Sands' Wimbledon jacket, Nadal's watch, Andy Roddick's visor, and Serena's entire farewell kit from the US Open.

As of the time of this article, the most popular answers are Nadal's headband, Bjorg's entire look, and Wawrinka's plaid shorts. Naturally, some jokesters on social media offered some witty replies. For what it is worth, our vote goes to John McEnroe's Nike Attack tennis shoes.

Tennis season may be winding down for the holidays, but the new season is right around the corner. Tennis fans can follow Sports Illustrated's Serve on SI for all the most important news from the sport.

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Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers the sneaker industry for Sports Illustrated's FanNation. Previously, he has reported on the NBA, authored "Kobe Bryant's Sneaker History (1996-2020)," and interviewed some of the biggest names in the sports world. You can email him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.

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