World No. 1 Naomi Osaka made a major announcement last week, trumpeting her arrival as the latest tennis player to sign up with the mega-brand Nike and leaving her longtime apparel sponsor Adidas behind.
She’s not the first athlete Nike has swooped up after they’ve made a name for themselves on the global stage. While Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Victoria Azarenka and Maria Sharapova have worn the brand from the start, other all-time greats and future stars were a little late to the party.
Here’s a look at five of Nike’s biggest signings.
1
Serena Williams
Williams broke into the game and won her first major wearing Puma, but Nike soon swept in and their partnership has been game-changing: From denim to catsuits, tutus to “superhero” outfits, her attire has inspired many a think piece. Beyond the court, empowerment for women has been a major part of the relationship.