COURT TO WELLNESS | SLOANE STEPHENS

Over the years, we have always enjoyed when we have connected with 2017 US Open Grand Slam winner Sloane Stephens. Most recently, she was our DEC ISSUE #84 2022 cover. We always enjoy catching up with her about her sport, new projects, as well as her philanthropic focus.

We had the pleasure to catch up with Sloane and this time we caught up with her to find out what she has been up to since we last talked with her! We were also excited to hear about her new wellness beauty brand, Doc & Glo that she launched during the US Open this summer! We also talked with her about her partnership with Athletes for Good which is a joint initiative between P&G, the IOC and the IPC that recognizes the efforts of athletes to improve their communities off the field of play, while also giving their best every day on their journey to their ultimate performance at Paris 2024. P&G awarded 20 Athletes for Good grants of $24,000 each to support causes championed by recipient athletes.

Sloane founded the Sloane Stephens Foundation in 2013, helping children from disadvantaged backgrounds dream big, both on and off the tennis court, by offering year-round tennis, education, mental health and financial literacy programs. The foundation uses tennis and education to change the narrative of poverty, health inequity, and educational development. With programs up and running in the Compton Unified School District – reaching 15,000 children in the area so far, the Slone Stephens Foundation will use the Athletes for Good grant to continue to grow the community.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We always love when we get the chance to catch up with you as we have enjoyed previous inbooks as well as a cover with you! You have had a busy year, what does your schedule look like for the remainder of this season in terms of upcoming matches?

SLOANE STEPHENS: I’m currently in Asia for the final tournament swing of the year. After this, I’ll head home for my off-season to spend time with my family before beginning my pre-season training block and playing in some exhibition matches.

AM: Are there any routines that you do before a match to get ready to play that you feel that you need to do?

SS: I always make sure to have a well balanced meal – usually chicken and rice with some type of veggie. It really depends on the time of my match but I prefer being the first match of the day so I don’t have much down time beforehand.

AM: Are there any routines that you do once you have completed a match to come down from all of the energy that you had to exert?

SS: Yes! I always get a massage and try to do some sort of self care whether it be a mask or just lighting a candle and relaxing.

AM: We always love following along your social media to see what you are up to and it's fun to see campaigns you're part of, your collaborations, and travels. Last month, you launched Doc & Glo which is amazing! Tell us about why you wanted to launch this brand as well as the meaning behind the name?

SS: I’ve always loved self care and this was always something I wanted to do. It’s a really exciting passion project for me! Seeing it all come together has been so special. The brand is named after my grandparents - Doc & Glo. My grandfather was an OBGYN – they called him doc, and my grandmother Gloria was a fabulous woman who taught me so much about self care starting at a young age.

AM: You launched 2 products - tell us about them and why did you want to start with them? Do you envision tackling other areas that will be available at Doc & Glo?

SS: We plan to launch more items in the body care space! Stay tuned!

AM: What has it been like in terms of coming up with this brand, doing all the R&D behind it, and finally releasing it for us to enjoy?

SS: It has truly been a labor of love! I’ve been working on Doc & Glo for 4 years so to finally see it out in the world is an amazing feeling. This brand was made from scratch – custom formulations, custom packaging, and months and months of testing. I’ve learned so much during this process and I can’t stress enough that entrepreneurship is not for the weak!

AM: How is your Sloane Stephens Foundation going and are there any upcoming projects that are going on that we should know about?

SS: Everything is going really well! 2025 marks our 10th year of programming in Compton and our programs are stronger than ever. We’re also expanding more meaningfully into South Florida, which is very special to me.

AM: How did you and the Sloane Stephens Foundation connect with Athletes for Good?

SS: I'm incredibly proud to be a member of Team USA. They've provided so much support throughout my career, including a scholarship for my MBA degree. I saw this funding opportunity for P&G’s Athletes for Good in an email and immediately wanted to apply on behalf of the Sloane Stephens Foundation.

AM: What did it mean to you to be awarded the grant?

SS: It means so much to be recognized for the work of the Sloane Stephens Foundation and to stand alongside so many other hard working athletes who give back to their communities across the country. When I started SSF in 2013, I sought out to create opportunities for youth to have tennis change their life. I believe in the power of grassroots sports and want all kids to have an amazing first interaction with whichever sport they choose. I appreciate the support of P&G in making these dreams come true.

AM: Are there projects or initiatives that you will be able to grow or incorporate in your plans because of the grant?

SS: This grant funding supported our summer camp in Compton, which just wrapped up after an amazing 8 weeks. We're constantly looking to improve and add new elements to our summer camp to give our kids the best possible experience. This summer, we were able to incorporate group sessions with our social worker as well as art therapy led by our social workers every Friday.

AM: Are there any other projects you have going on that you would like to share with us that we can keep an eye out for?

SS: We’re preparing to launch our next 2 Doc & Glo SKUs this winter and I’m really excited for everyone to experience them! I want to take over the home and away body care routine.

IG @sloanestephens

@docandglo

@sloanestephensfoundation

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Sloane Stephens

Read the SEP ISSUE #105 of Athleisure Mag and see COURT TO WELLNESS | Sloane Stephens in mag.

CITI TASTE OF TENNIS 2024

Aug. is always a fun month especially this year with the Summer Games at Paris 2024 giving us all the stories, cheers, and memories on a global stage and then we're able to continue onto US Open - the final Grand Slam of the year that takes place in Queens at Arthur Ashe Stadium. There are a number of events that kick off this tennis tournament and one of our favorites that we enjoy attending each year is Citi Taste of Tennis which took place at Gotham Hall this year. This event combines tennis players that are currently playing as well as veterans, a number of culinary and spirit brands, as well as competitions that take place between the sports and hospitality community. Avid readers got to know more about this event in terms of why it was created, what is involved, and more. You can read this in our JUL ISSUE #103 where we chatted with Penny Lerner of AYS.

We enjoyed seeing Qinwen Zheng (Team China Olympic G1) and Taylor Fritz (Team USA Olympic B1) making dishes with Executive Chef Cedric Tovar of The Palace Lotte Hotel on the main stage with Andre Agassi judging the cooking demo.

In between the action on the stage, we enjoyed tasting a number of dishes from an array of restaurants that included Carmine's Famous Homemade Meatballs from Chef Glenn Rolnick who was a sponsor at the event. We also stopped by Chef Luke Omarzu of Wolfgang Puck's CUT New York's USDA Prime Striploin Sirloin served with Summer Corn Salad, Salsa Verde, Sweet Corn, Cherry Tomatoes, Haricot Vert, Charred Pearl Onions & Parsley Allergens - Onion, Garlic, Anchovy & Dairy. There were a number of savory dishes and sweets that allowed our tastebuds to enjoy the night. In addition, there were siganture cocktails that flowed throughout the event! A true medley of sports meets culinary journeys.

Prior to the start of the event, we had the opportuity to talk with Andre Agassi who is known as the first man to complete both the Career Grand Slam (winning all 4 major titles over the course of a career) and Career Golden Slam (winning all 4 major titles and the Olympic Gold medal over the course of a career). He also has a Career Super Slam (which includes all four major titles, Olympic Gold and the Tour Finals (ATP Tour) over the course of a career).

He has won Grand Slams for the Australian Open 4X, French Open 1X, Wimbledon 1X, US Open 1X, Tour Finals 1X, and he won an Olympic Gold Medal as well. We wanted to know what he thought about this event as he kicked off the first one, what he is looking forward to at this year's US Open, and of course chatting pickleball!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What do you love about being part of this event as we know that you were involved in the inaugural one and have continued to participate over the years!

ANDRE AGASSI: Well, I love being able to be part of something that has grown into what this event has ultimately become! I love what it is does. I love the inspiration of what is behind it. I was here the first year so I mean, it’s crazy! So it’s cool to come back now a handful of years later and to see what it has turned into!

AM: Who are you excited to watch this year at the US Open?

AA: You know, I have been saying that we have 5 Americans now that are basically the top 20 of the world! I’d love to see one of them kind of have a breakthrough. I am a little biased but there is something really cool about having someone from America doing it here for this Grand Slam at the US Open. As it would be for someone in France to do it at Paris for the French Open. England was the same thing! One of the biggest things ever was when Andy Murray (won W 2X, UO 1) did it there! Of course when an Aussie does it in Australia that’s amazing too! I’d love to see an American break through!

AM: We got to see you play Pickleball earlier this year at Lifetime which was amazing!

AA: Oh yes!

AM: How is pickleball going. Any charity tournaments that you will do?

AA: Oh no, I’m not competing anymore!

AM: Simply for fun – not competing; however, you were pretty fierce out there even when it was just for fun!

AA: I know, I know it’s the way that I’m wired when it comes to getting out on the court! I haven’t quite yet decided whether I will enter a tournament, that was part of another part of my life.

IG @agassi

@tasteoftennis

@ayssports

It's always amazing to chat with one of the greats who continues to support the sport while also engaging in new ones such as Pickleball in his case.

We also had the pleasure to talk with Prakash Amritraj who is a former pro tennis player who is the host of Tennis Channel Live at the US Open which kicked off on Aug 26th and will run most mornings of the 2 week competition. The show is a mix of news, highlights, and special reports. It's a great way to stay on the pulse of what is happening.

Prakash was also the host of Citi Taste of Tennis and he kept the energy going throughout the culinary and sport event. We took some time to chat with him about tennis, the event, US Open, and more!

ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you first fall in love with tennis?

PRAKASH AMRITRAJ: I was 9½ - years-old in the summer of 1993. I used to travel with my dad at the senior-tour events. I found myself in the No. 1 locker room between Pete Sampras (winner of Australian Open 2X, Wimbledon 7X, US Open 5X, Tour Finals 5X) and Boris Becker (winner of Australian Open 2X, Wimbledon 3X, US Open 1X), and I said this is what I want to do.

AM: What did you enjoy about playing professionally?

PA: Several things: a. the comradery of my fellow athletes going into battle and being able to share that experience; b. the highs and lows of competition; c. overall, the incredible amount of adrenaline, electricity and inspiration that I’ve only found in sports.

AM: You've been Tennis Channel's year-round host of Prakash Worldwide. Can you tell us about these interview segments?

PA: I love it because at our desk I get to treat it more as a talk-show format instead of an on-court interview. I believe that because I’ve been in these players’ shoes we’re able to maintain a state of trust on the show. It allows them to showcase their personalities and what they bring to the game, and we have a lot of diamonds out there playing tennis right now. This ultimately helps to bring more people to our beautiful sport.

AM: We always love this time of year as we get ready to watch our favorites at the US Open. We'll be at Citi Taste of Tennis covering this event which is always a fun way for us to enjoy this time of year. You are the host this year. What are you excited about in terms of this event and what are you looking forward to?

PA: Hosting that event is as high-level as it gets in sports. I get to talk with Hall of Famer Andre Agassi and Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen in the same evening. It combines both of my worlds: tennis and entertainment/film and, again, it helps us to grow this sport.

AM: With the tournament kicking off on Aug 26th and running through Sep 8th, we'll be able to hear your commentary. What is it like preparing to be part of Tennis Channel Live at the US Open?

PA: I probably shouldn’t say this, but none of it ever feels like work with TC. I watch US Open tennis and then the next morning we talk about it. There’s a lot of research that goes into every show, but I like to call my approach, “prepared unprepared.” We have a game plan going in but the more we can just have a conversation, the better it is.

AM: What are you looking forward to this year in terms of Tennis Channel Live at the US Open as well as the action on the court?

PA: I always try to find the non-sports elements to the storylines that unfold at these tournaments. There are so many life lessons from all these great players and matches, and there are things that happen at the US Open and other events or even in other sports that you can apply to all aspects of people’s lives. I’m looking forward to unearthing those during the US Open.

IG @prakashamritraj

@tennischannel

We enjoyed chatting with Prakash to get his insights about what is taking place this time of year and we're sure that he will share a lot of great memories that take place during this Grand Slam.

In the tennis world there are a number of personalities that we enjoy seeing and one that is also our favorite are tennis personalities that we see as the tour rolls on. We all enjoy seeing Frances Tiafoe and can't wait to see him during the US Open. Typically, when he is on the court, his girlfriend Ayan Broomfield, who is also a tennis player is also nearby serving looks, being parts of campaigns and this year, she was rocking the Citi Taste of Tennis blue carpet interviewing athletes about the US Open. As we have been fans of hers for years, we wanted to take a moment to find out how she stays on this schedule, maintaining her beauty routines, and why she loves this time of year as well!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We have enjoyed following you on IG and enjoy seeing your style, campaigns, and when you’re traveling with Frances Tiafoe as well! As we’re all here for Citi Taste of Tennis, we’d love to chat with you!

AYAN BROOMFIELD: Yeah of course!

AM: What do you love about this time of year?

AB: Oh my gosh, I was just telling my friend that this time of year it’s like our Met Gala! We get to come here and do the events, I get to watch Frances and I get to be around tennis at one of the best tournaments of the year and then we have NYFW! So, it’s just a month straight of tennis and fashion and those are 2 of my favorite things!

AM: Love that!

You’re style is always so on point and your skin is also flawless.

AB: I try my best!

AM: You are everywhere! What are your travel go-to’s that you love having with you since you are always on the go?

AB: Right? No, I mean, when I first started traveling a lot, I realized that every country has different products and you want to make sure especially as an African American woman that you have things that work for you and you don’t want to rely on any type of store in a different country. So when I leave, I make sure that I have my specific skincare routine, that I have my specific haircare routine, and to make sure that I have all of my trinkets, extensions and whatever I need to make sure I have what I need as I am gone for months at a time. I just want to make sure that I have everything that I need and of course clothes. I pack a lot!

AM: Of course you do!

For self-care, what do you do with that? If you’re just looking at your IG we see you all over the world and of course all of that travel seems so luxurious and exotic; however, we know that just navigating that can be a lot.

AB: The traveling is a lot! It becomes a little bit stressful when you don’t have a routine so I want to make sure that anytime I get into a new country, I am always working out, I am always walking and running, and eating as best as I can! It keeps you healthy and it keeps your mental sane. That’s just kind of where I like to be!

IG @ayan.broomfield

PHOTOS COURTESY | PG 165 - 169, 176 + 177 Citi Taste of Tennis/Getty Images | PG 170 - 175 Paul Farkas

Read the AUG ISSUE #104 of Athleisure Mag and see CITI TASTE OF TENNIS 2024 in mag.

CITI TASTE OF TENNIS

As we navigate the summer, there are a number of events that are always on our mind! With the US Open around the corner, Citi Taste of Tennis kicks off a series of events as well as the Grand Slam that gets everyone excited! At Citi Taste of Tennis, you're able to enjoy some of the best chefs and restaurants as well as seeing your favorite tennis players who will be playing at the US Open as well as veterans together! We've enjoyed attending over the years and look forward to attending on Aug 22nd at Gotham Hall with this year's host, Prakash Amritraj. We wanted to know more about this event as well as others that are part of Taste of Tennis. We sat down with AYS Sports Marketing CEO, Penney Lerner to get all the details.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Before we delve into this year's Citi Taste of Tennis, I wanted to know more about AYS Sports Marketing and who this producer is?

PENNY LERNER: Citi Taste of Tennis was created by AYS Sports Marketing, a woman-owned experiential marketing agency started in 1996 by mother and daughter duo, Judi and Penny Lerner.

AM: When did Taste of Tennis launch and why was this created?

PL: The principals at AYS worked with various tennis tournaments for many years and, in doing so, developed close relationships with tennis players, agents, and other industry insiders. With their fingers on pulse on the state of professional tennis, they identified an exciting and untapped opportunity. While tennis featured top-notch tournaments and A-list players, there were no high profile “off the court” events that were prominent in so many other sports. To fill this void, AYS created the Taste of Tennis in 1999.

In 2000, AYS hosted the first Taste of Tennis event in NYC headlined by Andre Agassi and celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. The event combined food prepared by top chefs, celebrity appearances, entertainment and an Oscar's style red carpet. The event was instantly a hit among players, fans, sponsors and the media. Since then, the Taste has become a who’s who of tennis stars, culinary personalities and celebrities. Past attendees include Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Rafael Nadal, Coco Gauff, Mike Tyson, Eva Longoria, Marcus Samuelsson, Lana Del Rey, Naomi Osaka, Andy Roddick, John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Olivia Culpo, Maria Sharapova, John McEnroe, Nick Kyrgios, Al Roker, Tamron Hall, Billie Jean King, Morimoto, Monica Seles, and many others

AM: We have attended Citi Taste of Tennis for a few years and have enjoyed them each time. In addition to NY, you have a Taste of Tennis London, Indian Wells, Washington D.C., and Miami. What do you look for when it comes to deciding on bringing a Taste of Tennis to a city as we assume that it involves doing it in tandem with a tennis match?

PL: Citi Taste of Tennis has occurred in many different cities over the past 10 years, from Melbourne to London to New York City to Toronto. We are always evaluating cities that have unique culinary offerings, have the potential for new digital content and most importantly, have tennis happening nearby!

AM: In terms of the upcoming Citi Taste of Tennis what does the calendar look like in terms of planning? Can you tell us what you are focused on when you're a year out, 6 months, 3 months, and a month away?

PL: Citi Taste of Tennis is a brand. We focus on it for 12 months of the year and are constantly evaluating new markets, rising chefs and culinary trends, up and coming tennis players, unique venues, inspiring digital content, social media, sponsorships and more. It’s a big undertaking, and we have a great team and after 24 years, hundreds of hours of digital content and 75+ events, we have a solid understanding of what the brand requires.

AM: This year, you are returning to Gotham Hall. Each year, these events blend players, fans, and cuisine. Can you tell us what we should expect this year?

PL: Guests will enjoy cuisine prepared by 20 leading chefs including Mischa Tsumura (No. 5 Best Restaurant in the World – Maido) and Antonio Bachour (World’s Best Pastry chef 2018, 2022). They will also be treated to special appearances by a number of top tennis stars including 8-Time Grand Slam Champion Andre Agassi, Qinwen Zheng (World #7) and Alexander Zverev (World #4). There will also be great food and fun promotions provided by our sponsors including Segafredo Zanetti Coffee, Scenic Cruises, Boar’s Head, Barbados Tourism Board, Liquid Death and Savas Health.

AM: Is there anything new being added to this year's event?

PL: We are producing a live cooking competition between Chef Mischa and Chef Antonio with WTA player Qinwen Zheng and ATP player Zhizhen Zhang which Andre Agassi will judge!

AM: Outside of the events associated with tennis tournaments, what does Taste of Tennis do throughout the year?

PL: Taste of Tennis started out as a 3-hour culinary event and has evolved into one of the most popular brands in pro tennis. In addition to the 3 North American events, we currently produce, Taste of Tennis is also an Official Sponsor of the Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic at Hurlingham (UK). This year, we will also have a Taste of Tennis experience at the National Bank Open (Toronto). We have a full-time staff dedicated to managing all elements of the brand including sales, culinary, digital content, production, and public relations. Suffice to say it's a year-round program.

IG @tasteoftennis

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Taste of Tennis

Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see CITI TASTE OF TENNIS in mag.

PICKLEBALL POWER

We were invited to Life Time at PENN 1 for an exclusive event for their VIP Pickleball event that allows us to see the unveiling of their 7 courts at this location in Midtown, NYC! The event kicked off with a conversation with the company's founder, Bahram Akradi, Founder and CEO as well as tennis icon, Andre Agassi, with 60 ATP Tour Wins, 8 Grand Slam Titles (Singles – Australian Open 1995, 2000, 2001, 2003; French Open 1999; Wimbledon 1992; US Open 1994, 1999), and Team USA Tennis Olympic Gold Medalist for the Summer Games in 1996. This tennis champ has been passionate about pickleball and won $1M and the Pickleball Slam 1 2023 with his partner Andy Roddick against John McEnroe and Michael Chang. This year, he won the $1M purse and Pickleball Slam 2 with his wife, Steffi Graf as they beat John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova.

Andre was recently announced as inaugural chair of the Life Time Pickleball and Tennis Board with the goal of expanding access, enhancing programming and building community.

In addition to the Q+A we saw both men play exhibition tournaments with JOOLA Pros Anna Bright, Collin Johns, Ben Johns, and Tyson McGuffin.

LIFE TIME: Ladies and Gentleman welcome to our VIP Pickleball Event that is launching the 7 gorgeous new pickleball courts that we have here at Lifetime Pickleball in the heart of NYC! Today, we’re also partnering with JOOLA Pickleball as they recently launched their Generation 3 line of paddles with JOOLA Pros’ Anna Bright, Collin Johns, Ben Johns, and newcomer to JOOLA, Tyson McGuffin. All of them will be joining us in just a few moments.

Before that, I’d like to introduce 2 dynamic men! An ambassador in the world of health and fitness, along with being champions of the JOOLA and Life Time brands. One of these men is the Founder and CEO of Life Time, the other, career highlights include the winner of the first ever Pickle Slam partnering with Andy Roddick, side note is that he also won 8 Grand Slams and has an Olympic Gold medal! Let’s have a round of applause for Andre Agassi and Bahram Akradi.

So Andre, pickleball, what’s the first thing that you thought when you heard that word for the first time?

ANDRE AGASSI: I thought, why that name? Then I took 15mins to just sit with it and it took about a 20min learning curve and I fell in love with it.

LT: How about you Bahram, the first time that you heard of pickleball, what went through your mind?

BAHRAM AKRADI: At first I thought that it was just a sport for very, very, very, old people.

LT: So what is this sport, who are the people that play, and now we’re here in NYC specifically, talking about pickleball. So Bahram, when you first played, you said that we had to get more of this here at Life Time. And now, Life Time is the biggest provider of pickleball courts in the country. What was your vision for pickleball at first and has it come to fruition?

BA: Yes, so, I remember playing tennis in some of our other clubs and I saw these taped lines on the courts and I found it was because people were trying to play pickleball on them. Then people just started asking for us to have courts that were specific to this game. So I thought, well if I give them courts designed for pickleball, they will stop putting tape on my pickleball courts!

So we took one club and we took 1 tennis court and make it into 4 Pickleball courts and we did that to another tennis court. So then I thought that that would be the end of that! Then once I started playing it, I did it for 2 hours and I got hooked. I started with doubles, and then I began playing singles and that’s when I saw the opportunity for this sport! I saw how all kinds of people at all kinds of levels could play. We had the opportunity to have people come here with our large facilities, we have quickly grown to become the largest owner and operator of permanent pickleball courts, topping more than 680 permanent courts nationwide (including the most in New York City with nine), and serving as a host site for multiple MLP and PPA tournaments nationwide in addition to its own Pickleball Classic. So we wanted to take a run at it and I think that we have done that!

LT: To you Andre, what about your process of being a pickleball player as well as looking at your phenomenal tennis career?

AA: First of all, I just want to know with everyone that’s here, how many of you have played pickleball? Look at all these hands – why are you asking me this question haha?

For me, what I really appreciated so quickly about it separately from inside the lines is when you’re playing tennis, you have to spend a 1-2.5 years before the game opens up to you. It’s that feeling that you’re not so concerned with what you are doing with the ball – you’re thinking of what you are trying to accomplish. With pickle, you’re able to get out there and connect quickly and there is a low point of injury involved.

Then there is the dynamics of family as my extended family as well as my wife’s who are from Germany when they come, we can all play together and we’re all different levels. I would say that we would all be out there – aunts, uncles, cousins, etc and no one had their phones out for 2 hours. The phones are on the side.

For me, what the hell can I do at this age that I can actually get better at? I mean I have gotten better at so many things in my life already – except for pickleball and I am getting better! You know, I’m a tortured perfectionist and when I think about playing pickleball versus tennis, the thrill of having to unlearn some of the sensibilities that I had as a tennis player right? But I also had to maintain some skills right? I am able to put my mind to the task and I get the reward of seeing all of that come together and I can only see this sport continuing to grow as it has. I feel that if we have X amount of people playing right now, we’ll be able to 10X that in no time at all!

LT: Andre is long on pickleball, I love that!

Now, you had mentioned that you have been playing with your family – your wife – I mean she’s major! Do you prefer playing with her or against her?

AA: I mean, she has crossed some finish lines in her life!

LT: A lot of us have significant others, spouses, that we play with so it’s always interesting to know!

AA: I like playing on her side because we are connected and that’s how you start to really understand what your partner is like and what you can and can’t do and to start morphing into their game. It’s cool to be on the same side of the net and that way you won’t feel guilty body bagging her! I mean, she has a few shots that are unique and then there are other things that don’t translate so well. She wants to play everything pretty traditionally. She’s always expressed her energy and her blood pressure through physical output so she was like a racehorse on the tennis court, but for me, my energy was always shot making when I was on the tennis court. It was about taking the ball and doing something with it.

So some things translate a lot easier when playing pickleball, but it’s fun watching her get past that first part and then seeing her get into her stride in this game. She just started playing singles after starting with doubles and you know, there’s one thing I don’t know how this sport works with someone who struggles with their knees. So she’s being careful and she has a cyst in her knee so once that thing gets drained and her knee feels good, she wants to play singles.

LT: Andre, just so you know, that was also a singles challenge right there for Bahram to play Steffani in singles. Are your kids approaching you to play pickleball or are you approaching them?

AA: Well, my kids – my son is a senior at USC and our daughter, thank God still lives with us at home as education and school wasn’t her thing. She’s artistic and does her own thing, she’ll get out there and play. My son plays baseball so when he hits something, he’s not thinking about it staying within a certain perimeter.

LT: He likes to be out there with the foul balls!

Bahram, how did you and Andre meet and what makes you excited to bringing Andre on board as the Chair for Raquet and Paddle Sports here at Life Time?

BA: We started working together 15 years ago and we continued to grow as really close friends. I have all the love and admiration for his intelligence and athleticism. I have always loved Andre and I have always hoped that when the right time came, that we would be able to partner together and to do something good that would be for the greater good. Life Time is the largest provider of pickleball and we wanted to be able to continue to deliver and offer tennis and pickleball and there was no better person that I could imagine to be the chair of our tennis and pickleball board. With his vision, his insight and I called him and asked what he thought about this. When he told me about his vision and how it would utilize our platform, it was a no-brainer for me.

LT: Andre, we are approaching the 30th Anniversary of you winning your very first US Open. What kind of memories does that bring back for you?

AA: Well, I had hair.

LT: Where were we then? Was it touching your shirt?

AA: The hair was going past the shirt!

You know, it’s such a profound place in my professional journey as well as in my personal journey. You guys not only watched me grow up, you helped me grow up. You really did. I was 18 years old playing Jimmy Connors at night giving him the beating that he deserved! Someone yelled out, “Jimmy, he’s a bum, you’re a legend!” and I remember thinking that I got the legend part, but what? Then fast forward and I got into something that I had done my whole life in front of those people and then down the road after my journey, saying goodbye when I finally retired.

LT: Well I mean, we have an exhibition coming up shortly today!

AA: Yeah, I was told about that! I’m ready!

LT: On that note, let’s bring in our 4 JOOLA Pros, Anna Bright, Collin Johns, Ben Johns, and JOOLA newcomer, Tyson McGuffin! Come on down here! So we’re going to ask our pros a few questions right now so that we can get to know them a little better and then we will head down to the Life Time Pickleball courts as we have a a whole stadium court set up. I wonder if you thought about that this morning Andre?

AA: Ok, I’ m nervous enough!

LT: I mean, it’s almost like a US Open crowd!

So starting off with Anna since you have a microphone in your hand, what excites you the most about pickleball?

ANNA BRIGHT: I think you know, it’s so cool that everybody is here to experience the joy of pickleball and to see us and to watch it! What I love most is the growth of it and not knowing where the sport is going to take us! When I first started playing 2 and a half years ago, I never thought that I would be here in NYC to play a tournament here to meet people and to talk about this game! There’s on way to really know how this game will look in a year or 2 years especially since you have the Pro level and I feel like we’re always kind of being pulled around on a chain by the powers that be, but it’s crazy to see the growth of the amateur game and I hope that we will be back here next year and will need more seating! I’m kind of excited and I don’t even know for what specifically, but I can’t wait to see where it goes in the next few years.

LT: Bright future, Anna Bright! Hopefully we will need more seating and have more people in here next year.

Tyson, I’ve watched you drill on the courts and a 2 hour session turns into a 3 hour session and I think that your T-shirts were more wet than is humanly possible. What are you working on to improve your pickleball game? More specifically, to beat these 3 people around you actually and to beat up on Mr. Agassi today?

TYSON MCGUFFIN: Yeah I think that for me, I have lost some top matches this year. So I think that walking in and raising the level mentally and being a little tougher in those moments. I think that at the highest level, we are all really talented and it’s just about that when the going gets tough and your back is against the wall, you just have to mentally lock in and dial in. I want to say thank you New York and let’s go New York Knicks!

LT: Collin, you’re a professional pickleball player. There was a time when you were not a professional pickleball player.

What advice would you give to somebody that is trying to be a professional pickleball player or what's one thing that was really integral in your path as you went Pro?

COLLIN JOHNS: Um, being Ben’s brother probably is a good start. The tennis journey, I did that for many years and then coming over to pickleball, I think that that just let me witness that I was playing a different sport. There are certain things that are going to help you as background significantly, but there are other things that you have to learn how to change. If you look at the players that have had the most success, especially relatively rapidly – they are very open to learning the game and that was really good for me. It was certainly a credit to the guy on my left that helped me along the way. But, the event today and one I did yesterday, it’s just amazing to see where the sport has grown since I started playing. I’m very excited about being here today.

LT: Speaking of the guy to your left, Ben, you’re the middle of 7 children! What was it like growing up? Was it constant sports and competition of those 7 kids? Who was the most competitive?

BEN JOHNS: Yeah, I grew up as 1 of 7 kids, but also 1 of the 2 boys as we have 5 sisters so it was primarily just sports with this guy. Pickleball is the only thing that I ever won. So, I’m really just taking my sweet time with it! He is 6 years older and it was very competitive. So when you have someone that much older than you, you just get used to losing at everything! But it was a great upbringing and I wouldn’t do it over in any other way. I was very grateful and it all led me here!

IG @bahram.akradi

@lifetime.life

@agassi

@annabright.pb

@benjohns_pb

@collinjohns_pb

@tysonmcguffin

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Life Time

Read the MAY ISSUE #101 of Athleisure Mag and see PICKLEBALL POWER in mag.

AWARDS SEASON | 45TH SPORTS EMMY AWARDS NOMINATIONS

 Today, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced the 45th Annual Sports Emmy® Awards nominations as well as revealing the Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, sports broadcaster James Brown. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, May 21, at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall, Broadway at 60th Street, New York City. 

“This year’s sports broadcasting nominees produced thrilling and captivating television,” said Adam Sharp, President & CEO, NATAS. “We look forward to welcoming these exceptional professionals to the 45th Annual Sports Emmy Awards in May.”

“The Sports Emmy Awards are proud to recognize the outstanding work of this year’s nominees and to honor James Brown for his long and prolific career,” added Stephen Head, Head of Sports.

As we do throughout Awards Season, we share our predictions in bold, the ones we correctly identified as winners are in bold italics and winners that we didn’t predict are in italics. On the night of the event, we will share who we predicted correctly as well as those we didn’t that won.

OUTSTANDING LIVE SPECIAL

The Masters
        CBS

The 105th PGA Championship
        CBS

Super Bowl LVIII
        Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Francisco 49ers
        CBS

Super Bowl LVIII
        Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Francisco 49ers
        Nickelodeon
        [Nickelodeon Productions | CBS Sports | NFL Films]

The 119th World Series
        Texas Rangers vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
        FOX

OUTSTANDING LIVE SERIES

FOX CFB
        FOX | FS1

FOX NFL
        FOX

Monday Night Football
        ABC | ESPN

Monday Night Football with Peyton & Eli
        ESPN2
        [Omaha Productions]

Sunday Night Football
        NBC | Peacock

OUTSTANDING PLAYOFF COVERAGE

American League Championship Series
        Houston Astros vs. Texas Rangers
        FOX | FS1

College Football Playoff Semifinals
        Rose Bowl & Sugar Bowl
        ESPN

MLB Postseason on tbs
        tbs

NFL Championship
        Detroit Lions vs. San Francisco 49ers
        FOX

·NFL Playoffs on NBC
        NBC | Peacock

OUTSTANDING EDITED EVENT COVERAGE

All Access
        Davis vs. Garcia: Epilogue
        Showtime

·NFL Draft: The Pick Is In
        The Roku Channel
        [NFL Films | Skydance Sports]

NFL Game Day All Access
        Super Bowl LVIII
        YouTube
        [NFL Films]

Road To The Super Bowl
        CBS
        [NFL Films]

2023 Special Olympic World Games
        ABC

OUTSTANDING EDITED SPECIAL

Chasing Greatness: Coach K x LeBron
        TNT

Crown
        CBS Sports Network

E60
        The Crossover: 50 Years of Hip Hop and Sports
        ESPN
        [ESPN Films]

GR8TNESS
        ESPN

You Are Looking Live!
        CBS
        [NFL Films]

OUTSTANDING HOSTED EDITED SERIES

E60
        ESPN

Kickin’ It
        Paramount+ | Golazo Network

The Pivot Podcast
        YouTube

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel
        HBO | Max

The Shop UNINTERRUPTED
        YouTube
        [UNINTERRUPTED]

OUTSTANDING ESPORTS CHAMPIONSHIP COVERAGE

BLAST.tv Paris Major 2023
        BLAST.tv
        [BLAST]

2023 Call of Duty League Championship Weekend
        New York Subliners vs. Toronto Ultra
        Twitch | YouTube
        [Esports Engine | Activision Blizzard]

Intel Extreme Masters Cologne 2023 Grand Finals
        ENCE vs. G2
        Twitch | YouTube
        [ESL FACEIT Group]

League of Legends Worlds 2023 Final
        T1 vs. Weibo Gaming
        LoLEsports.com | Twitch | YouTube
        [Riot Games]

VALORANT Champions 2023 Grand Final
        Paper Rex vs. Evil Geniuses
        ValorantEsports.com | Twitch | YouTube
        [Riot Games]

OUTSTANDING SHORT DOCUMENTARY

Dreamcaster
        MSG Network | MSG+
        [456 Studios | Lord + Thomas | DaHouse Audio | Citizen Music | Vicaps | Helo]

Extraordinary Stories
        One-Armed Wonder: The Extraordinary Story of Jimmy Hasty
        UEFA.tv
        [Noah Media Group]

NFL 360
        Gone
        NFL Network

NFL Films Presents
        Lahainaluna High
        FS1
        [NFL Films]

SC Featured
        Nothing Else Matters
        ESPN+

OUTSTANDING LONG DOCUMENTARY

The Deepest Breath
        Netflix
        [A24 | Motive Films | Ventureland]

Full Circle
        Vimeo On Demand
        [Level 1 Productions]

Kelce
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios | Skydance | Vera Y Productions | 9.14 Pictures]

The Saint of Second Chances
        Netflix
        [Tremolo | Stampede Ventures]

Stand
        Showtime
        [SHOWTIME Sports Documentary Films | MSM]

OUTSTANDING DOCUMENTARY SERIES

Catching Lightning
        Showtime
        [Bat Bridge Entertainment]

Goliath
        Showtime
        [Village Roadshow Television | Religion of Sports]

Super League: The War for Football
        Apple TV+
        [Words + Pictures | All Rise Films]

Untold
        Netflix
        [Propagate | Stardust Frames | RAW | The Players’ Tribune]

OUTSTANDING DOCUMENTARY SERIES – SERIALIZED

Football Must Go On
        Paramount+

Formula 1: Drive to Survive
        Netflix
        [Box to Box Films]

Hard Knocks
        Training Camp With The New York Jets
        HBO | Max
        [NFL Films]

Monster Factory
        Apple TV+
        [Vox Media Studios | Public Record]

Quarterback
        Netflix
        [NFL Films | Omaha Productions | 2PM Productions]

OUTSTANDING STUDIO SHOW – WEEKLY

College GameDay
        ESPN

FOX CFB: Big Noon Kickoff
        FOX | FS1

FOX NFL Sunday
        FOX

Inside the NBA on TNT
        TNT

The NFL Today
        CBS

OUTSTANDING STUDIO SHOW – DAILY

MLB Tonight
        MLB Network

NBA Countdown
        ESPN | ESPN2

NFL Live
        ESPN | ESPN2

Pardon The Interruption
        ESPN
        [Rydholm Projects, Inc.]

SportsCenter
        ESPN

OUTSTANDING STUDIO SHOW – LIMITED RUN

College GameDay
        College Football Playoff
        ESPN

FOX MLB: The Postseason
        FOX | FS1

Inside the NBA Playoffs on TNT
        TNT

Postseason NFL Countdown
        ESPN

Road to the Final Four
        CBS | TNT

OUTSTANDING JOURNALISM

CNN FlashDocs
        Blindsided
        CNN

E60
        Peace of Mind: Psychedelics in Sports
        ESPN

E60
        The Perfect Machine
        ESPN

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel
        A Blind Eye: Switzerland and the Corruption of World Sport
        HBO | Max

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel
        Call of Duty: How War is Destroying Ukrainian Sport
        HBO | Max

OUTSTANDING SHORT FEATURE

College GameDay
        The Legacy of Tyler Trent
        ESPN

NFL 360
        The Chief Who Walked The Sea
        NFL Network

NFL 360
        Heroes
        NFL Network

NFL 360
        Miracle
        NFL Network

The NFL Today: Super Bowl LVIII
        Just Win Baby!
        CBS

Sunday Night Football
        Madden & Stingley
        NBC | Peacock

Thursday Night Football
        Marshawn Lynch ‘N Yo City: Intercourse, PA (Yes, this is a real place)
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

OUTSTANDING LONG FEATURE

Outside The Lines
        Jordan McNair: The Freedom Within
        ESPN

Playing Fields
        Ornella: Knocking Down Social Prejudices Pursuing Her Olympic Dream
        Olympic Channel

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel
        No Surrender: One Man’s Battle with ALS
        HBO | Max

SportsCenter
        SC Featured: Dear Mrs. Reid
        ESPN

SportsCenter
        SC Featured: Running for Martin
        ESPN

Unredeemable
        Golf Channel

OUTSTANDING OPEN/TEASE

The 149th Kentucky Derby
        Timeless
        NBC | Peacock

Monday Night Football
        In the Air Tonight
        ESPN | ABC

NHL Winter Classic on TNT
        If This Wall Could Talk
        TNT

Sunday Night Football
        Heidi
        NBC | Peacock

Super Bowl LVIII
        My Way
        CBS

OUTSTANDING INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE

College Football Playoff MegaCast
        Rose Bowl Game
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ESPN Deportes | ESPNU | ESPNews | SEC Network | ESPN App | ABC | LHN

Fan Controlled Racing Watch Party
        Twitch | Kick
        [Fan Controlled Sports & Entertainment]

The Magic and Mastery of US Open Champion – Carlos Alcaraz
        ESPN.com

NCAA March Madness Live
        March Madness Live

Thursday Night Football
        Black Friday Football Studio
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

Thursday Night Football
        Event Coverage Optionality/Customization
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

OUTSTANDING DIGITAL INNOVATION

Big City Greens Classic
        Fully Animated Live Sporting Event With Integrated Real-Time Animated Talent
        ESPN+ | Disney Channel | Disney XD | Disney+
        [Beyond Sports | Silver Spoon Animation | Disney Television Animation]

Dreamcaster
        MSG Network | MSG+
        [Weber Shandwick | Helo]

MLB Next
        AR App
        MLB

Red Bull Erzbergrodeo
        Cross-Platform Storytelling with Broadcast, Web Widgets and AR App.
        Red Bull TV
        [Red Bull Media House | ProteGear | TeraVolt | Girraphic]

Thursday Night Football
        Machine Learning on Prime Vision
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY/STUDIO HOST

Malika Andrews
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ABC | TNT

Kevin Burkhardt
        FOX | FS1

Rece Davis
        ESPN

Ernie Johnson
        TNT | tbs

Scott Van Pelt
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ABC

OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY/PLAY-BY-PLAY

Mike Breen
        ABC

Joe Buck
        ESPN | ABC

Ian Eagle
        CBS | TNT | tbs

Kevin Harlan
        tbs | CBS | TNT | truTV

Mike Tirico
        NBC | Peacock

OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY/STUDIO ANALYST

Charles Barkley
        TNT

Nate Burleson
        CBS

Ryan Clark
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ESPN+ | ABC

Kirk Herbstreit
        ESPN

Mina Kimes
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ABC

OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY/EVENT ANALYST

Troy Aikman
        ESPN | ABC

Cris Collinsworth
        NBC | Peacock

Greg Olsen
        FOX

Bill Raftery
        CBS | TNT

John Smoltz
        FOX | FS1

Tom Verducci
        FOX | FS1 | MLB Network

OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY/SIDELINE REPORTER

Erin Andrews
        FOX

Kaylee Hartung
        Prime Video | NBC | Peacock

Tom Rinaldi
        FOX | FS1

Holly Rowe
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ABC

Tracy Wolfson
        CBS | TNT

OUTSTANDING PERSONALITY/EMERGING ON-AIR

Mookie Betts
        Bleacher Report | tbs | FOX

Noah Eagle
        NBC | Peacock

Carli Lloyd
        FOX | FS1

Taylor Rooks
        TNT | NBA TV | Bleacher Report | Amazon

Jay Wright
        CBS | CBS Sports Network | TNT

OUTSTANDING TECHNICAL TEAM EVENT

The Masters
        CBS

NASCAR on NBC
        Chicago Street Race
        NBC

Super Bowl LVIII
        CBS

Thursday Night Football
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

2023 US Open
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ESPN+ | ABC

OUTSTANDING TECHNICAL TEAM STUDIO

FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023
        FOX | FS1

FOX NFL
        Stage A
        FOX

NFL Draft
        ESPN | ABC

The NFL Today
        Super Bowl LVIII
        CBS

Thursday Night Football
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

OUTSTANDING CAMERA WORK – SHORT FORM

The 155th Belmont Stakes
        31 Lengths: Secretariat
        FOX

NFL 360
        Heroes
        NFL Network

NFL Films Presents
        Optex Lens
        FS1
        [NFL Films]

The NFL Today: Super Bowl LVIII
        Just Win Baby!
        CBS

Super Bowl LVIII
        My Way
        CBS

OUTSTANDING CAMERA WORK – LONG FORM

E60
        Sacred Dog
        ESPN

Freeride Skiing
        Descendance
        YouTube
        [Legs of Steel]

Hard Knocks
        Training Camp With The New York Jets
        HBO | Max
        [NFL Films]

Unredeemable
        Golf Channel

Vamos Vegas
        YouTube

OUTSTANDING EDITING – SHORT FORM

The 149th Kentucky Derby
        Timeless
        NBC | Peacock

NFL 360
        The Chief Who Walked The Sea
        NFL Network

NFL 360
        Heroes
        NFL Network

NHL on TNT
        Show and Tell
        TNT

Super Bowl LVIII
        My Way
        CBS

OUTSTANDING EDITING – LONG FORM

Freeride Skiing
        Descendance
        YouTube
        [Legs of Steel]

Hard Knocks
        Training Camp With The New York Jets
        HBO | Max
        [NFL Films]

Kelce
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios | Skydance | Vera Y Productions | 9.14 Pictures]

Under Pressure: The U.S. Women’s World Cup Team
        Netflix
        [Words + Pictures | FIFA | Time Studios]

Unredeemable
        Golf Channel

THE DICK SCHAAP OUTSTANDING WRITING AWARD – SHORT FORM

FOX CFB: Big Noon Kickoff
        J.J. McCarthy “47”
        FOX

NFL 360
        The Chief Who Walked The Sea
        NFL Network

NFL 360
        Still Here
        NFL Network

The NFL Today
        Kyle Brandt Series
        CBS

Sunday Night Football
        NBC | Peacock

OUTSTANDING WRITING – LONG FORM

All Access
        Showtime

Chasing Gold
        Farebersviller
        NBC

E60
        The Crossover: 50 Years of Hip Hop and Sports
        ESPN
        [ESPN Films]

Hard Knocks
        Training Camp With The New York Jets
        HBO | Max
        [NFL Films]

The World According to Football
        Showtime
        [SHOWTIME Sports Documentary Films | Religion of Sports |
        Day Zero Productions | Mainstay Entertainment]

OUTSTANDING MUSIC DIRECTION

E60
        The Crossover: 50 Years of Hip Hop and Sports
        ESPN
        [ESPN Films]

E60
        Sacred Dog
        ESPN | ESPN+
        [Showtime Singers]

The Golden Boy
        HBO | Max
        [Unrealistic Ideas | ViaMar Productions]

NBA on TNT
        50 Years of Hip Hop
        TNT

Super Bowl LVIII
        My Way
        CBS

OUTSTANDING AUDIO/SOUND – LIVE EVENT

FOX MLB
        FOX | FS1

FOX NASCAR
        FOX | FS1

Little League World Series
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ABC

NASCAR on NBC
        NBC | USA

Sunday Night Baseball
        ESPN | ESPN2

Sunday Night Football
        NBC | Peacock

Super Bowl LVIII
        CBS

OUTSTANDING AUDIO/SOUND – POST-PRODUCED

Formula 1: Drive to Survive
        Netflix
        [Box to Box Films | Netflix]

FOX NASCAR: RACE HUB
        The Championship: Radioactive
        FS1
        [NASCAR Studios]

2023 IRONMAN World Championship
        Outside TV
        [The IRONMAN Group Productions]

McGregor Forever
        Netflix
        [Religion of Sports]

NFL 360
        Heroes
        NFL Network

Quarterback
        Netflix
        [NFL Films | Omaha Productions | 2PM Productions]

Vamos Vegas
        YouTube
        [TORQ]

OUTSTANDING GRAPHIC DESIGN – EVENT/SHOW

FOX NFL
        FOX

Monday Night Football
        ESPN | ESPN2 | ESPN+ | ABC
        [Elastic Creative]

NBA Finals
        ESPN | ABC
        [Two Fresh Creative | Panoply]

Super Bowl LVIII
        CBS

Toy Story Funday Football
        DISNEY+ | ESPN+
        [BIG Studios | Beyond Sports | Silver Spoon Animation | PIXAR]

OUTSTANDING GRAPHIC DESIGN – SPECIALTY

MLB Network Showcase
        This Is What I Live For
        MLB Network
        [Perception]

NFL 360
        The Chief Who Walked The Sea
        NFL Network

Super League: The War for Football
        Apple TV+
        [Words + Pictures | All Rise Films]

Thursday Night Football
        TNF Show Open / Black Friday Football: Robert Randolph
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

Toy Story Funday Football
        Duke Caboom Daredevil Spectacular
        DISNEY+ | ESPN+

OUTSTANDING STUDIO OR PRODUCTION DESIGN/ART DIRECTION

The 155th Belmont Stakes
        31 Lengths: Secretariat
        FOX

FOX NFL
        Stage A
        FOX

Super Bowl LVIII
        My Way
        CBS

Thursday Night Football
        Black Friday Football Tradition Tease; TNF Show
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios]

Toy Story Funday Football
        DISNEY+ | ESPN+
        [BIG Studios | Beyond Sports | Silver Spoon Animation | PIXAR]

THE GEORGE WENSEL TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The Masters
        TFC Compound Connect
        CBS

2023 MLB Home Run Derby
        StatCast Edition: Live Virtual 3D Event Coverage
        ESPN2

Monday Night Football with Peyton & Eli
        Peyton Manning’s AR Table
        ESPN2
        [Omaha Productions]

Thursday Night Football
        TNF Table Talk
        Prime Video
        [Amazon MGM Studios | Girraphic]

Toy Story Funday Football
        DragonFly Tech
        DISNEY+ | ESPN+
        [NFL | Next Gen Stats | Beyond Sports | Hawk-Eye]

OUTSTANDING PROMOTIONAL ANNOUNCEMENT

FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023
        USA vs The World
        FOX

The Golden Boy
        Who Am I?
        HBO | Max
        [Zealot UK]

2023 NBA Finals
        We Are All in the Finals
        NBA Social

Stanley Cup
        First Kiss
        NHL Network

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN
        Battle of the Baddest | Rumble
        ESPN | ESPN+
        [Park Pictures]

OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVICE CONTENT

FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023
        Common Goal
        FOX | FS1

Hometown Hopefuls
        NBC | NBCSports.com

NFL on CBS
        Football for Everyone
        CBS | CBS Sports Network

Notre Dame Football
        What Would You Fight For?
        NBC

Youth Flag Football
        Let’s Play
        NFL Network

OUTSTANDING STUDIO SHOW IN SPANISH

Ahora o Nunca
        ESPN Deportes

2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
        Telemundo

Fuera de Juego
        ESPN+

Futbol Central
        Verano de Campeones
        Univision | TUDN

Republica Deportiva
        Univision | TUDN

Sunday Night Football
        Telemundo

OUTSTANDING FEATURE STORY IN SPANISH

Balon de Oro de la Liga MX
        Tigres – Powerchair
        Univision | TUDN

E60
        Mayra
        ESPN | ESPN+

Mundo NFL Originals
        El Sueño de Cieneguitas
        Mundo NFL
        [Sway | Mundo NFL]

SportsCenter
        In Her Shoes: Wang Shuang
        ESPN Deportes

SportsCenter
        SC Reportajes: Do Bronx – Charles Oliveira
        ESPN Deportes

OUTSTANDING ON-AIR PERSONALITY IN SPANISH

Alejandro Berry
        Univision | TUDN

Andrés Cantor
        Telemundo

Carolina Guillén
        ESPN Deportes

Miguel Gurwitz
        Telemundo

Rebeca Landa
        ESPN Deportes

Valeria Marin
        Univision | TUDN

SERVING UP SELF-CARE | SLOANE STEPHENS

As we close out 2022, we're already thinking about what we're going to do in the New Year personally and professionally! In the midst of all this activity, we need to take time and to enjoy the moments along the way!

This month's cover is Grand Slam US Open 2017 Champion, Sloane Stephens. She has made impressive moments at the French Open, Australian Open, Wimbledon and a number of matches and won an ESPY for Top Female Tennis Player in 2018 and because of her philanthropic work with the Sloane Stephens Foundation, she was nominated and a finalist for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award in 2019.

We have had the pleasure to connect with her in previous issues, but this month, we're talking about her upcoming tennis season, self-care and what she does while traveling! She definitely knows a thing or two about juggling a busy schedule while also taking the necessary time that she needs.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We had the pleasure of interviewing a few years back and then right before the US Open, you took time out of your schedule to share your 63MIX ROUTIN3S with us about what you do Morning, Afternoon and Night. With the season starting Jan 1st, what are the weeks like for you between now and the start of the season whether it’s training, relaxing, enjoying the holiday season, etc?

SLOANE STEPHENS: I’ve had one of the best off-seasons I’ve ever had this year! I started out by freezing my eggs at Kindbody. I’ve wanted to freeze my eggs for a while and the timing was finally right to commit to the process. From there, we went to Iceland to celebrate Jozy’s birthday and spent a few days as a family at the Retreat Hotel at the Blue Lagoon getting spa treatments and soaking in the hot springs. Iceland is only a 5 hour nonstop flight from Boston, so it was an easy trip! The day after Thanksgiving, we left for Africa. We went on the most incredible safari in South Africa at Londolozi and saw a gorilla trek at Virunga National Park. This was my first trip to Africa and I cannot wait to go back. I’m now back in Boston doing a training block with my trainer before heading for a tennis training block in Cabo through Christmas. From Cabo, I’ll fly directly to Auckland, NZ to begin the season!

AM: What tournaments are you looking forward to this year?

SS: Red clay is my favorite surface, so I always look forward to the European clay court season in the spring, which culminates at Roland Garros. As an American, any time I can play on US soil is extra special, so I’m looking forward to playing at Indian Wells, Miami, the US Open, and a new tournament in Austin.

AM: What is your routine before and after your matches?

SS: Before I play, I usually eat some pasta and a piece of lean protein like a chicken breast or piece of fish. I typically go into the locker room and put my headphones in and spend some time thinking and mentally going over the match plan I outlined with my coach the night before. About 30 minutes before my match, I’ll break a light sweat on a stationary bike and go through some fitness drills to make sure I’m starting the match with quick feet and dynamic movement.

After the match, I’ll do a quick cool down and shower before handling any mandatory media commitments. Once I’m done with that, I’ll either get a massage on-site or go back to my hotel and get some treatment from my physio. Depending on the time of day, I’ll then head out to dinner and prepare for the next day.

AM: How important is recovery to you after working out or after a match? What are the kinds of things that you do after these activities?

SS: Recovery is a critical piece of both the fitness and recovery process. Cooling down and taking the time to stretch and flush out muscles is really important for recovery and preparing for the next day and next match.

AM: Many of our readers are balancing hectic schedules – you got married at the top of the year to Jozy Altidore, an international soccer star – how do you make sure you give time to yourself, being with your husband and family?

SS: I make a lot of effort to have a very structured schedule and communicate my boundaries and commitments to my team. When it’s family time, it is family time and the phone is away. When it’s time to train, I’m training. When it’s time to work on my Foundation or on my outside businesses and investments, I’m fully there. I’ve also learned the things that bring me the most joy and fulfillment and prioritize those activities. When I’m home and able to spend time with my family, I take advantage of every single second of that time we’re together.

AM: In your sport, you spend a lot of time traveling 40+ weeks of the year! You kick off the season in Australia with the Australian Open. Also via your IG feed, you travel for fun – you’re South African trip looks amazing! How do you make your spaces feel like home when you’re traveling?

SS: I try to keep some consistent products and activities in my routine so that I can rely on those consistencies no matter where I am. A super easy way to do this is with bringing a candle from home - I find that having the same scent is really grounding and helps me feel in control of my environment.

AM: When it comes to choosing what hotel you like to stay at and to help our readers that may be planning their next trip, what are the things that you look for?

SS: For most tournaments, there is an official tournament hotel, so I just stay wherever I need to. In some cases, like in Paris and New York where there are endless options, we get to pick our own hotels. I love to stay at The Langham in New York and Hotel Vernet in Paris. I love when a hotel has a good breakfast, it’s just one less decision to make in the day. I also love great showers and friendly concierges.

AM: In terms of your suitcase, what are some of the important things that are must for you to pack so that you have your necessities as well as options for the unexpected?

SS: The most important thing in my suitcase is my passport. If I have my passport, I can pretty much figure everything else out as I go! Of course, I also need my tennis racquets to do my job! I travel with a lot of skin care products because I love the sense of calm and order that a consistent routine brings.

AM: What are some of your travel hacks that have proven to work for you that we should know?

SS: I cannot overstate the importance of hydrating during travel. The entire travel experience is really drying - the plane air is dry, hotels can be dry, the change in climates can be tough - it’s a lot. Hydrating inside and out helps your body adjust to new situations and new timezones and it is so simple to do. I think a lot of people are hit with a double-whammy when it comes to dehydration because they’re drinking a lot of caffeine to try and stay awake during travel or they might be having some alcoholic beverages while they’re away, and both of those things are also really dehydrating on the body, so it’s all the more important to hydrate.

AM: Do you have anything that you do before, during or after hopping on a flight whether it’s a beauty process, self-care, etc?

SS: I’ve started wearing WHOOP’s new Blue Light Glasses to avoid disrupting my circadian rhythms with too much screen time - it makes a huge difference when I’m trying to sleep the next night. I also try to get up and walk around on the plane to keep the blood flowing and prevent blood clots or feeling super stiff when I land.

AM: When you arrive in your designated city, whether it’s for work or fun, what are the things that you look for in terms of restaurants, activities and shopping that you want to explore?

SS: When I was first starting out on tour, I rarely ventured out. I stuck close to the hotel and always went back to the same restaurants. There are already so many variables at play when traveling for work and needing to compete, so I never wanted to risk an upset stomach or having any sort of issues. Now that I’ve been traveling to the same cities for 15+ years, I have a great mix of my tried and true staple spots but have also really enjoyed researching and trying new spots. I think being locked down during Covid made me appreciate the incredible opportunity I have to travel the world and made me look forward to getting back out and exploring.

AM: Do you have separate beauty routines for daytime versus night time?

SS: Yes! I wake up and drink a huge glass of water. I brush my teeth and then wash my face with a gentle cleanser like the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex. I sleep with various moisturizing layers, so I don’t want to take that all off and dry myself out again. I usually head right to practice or training, so I put Neutrogena sunscreen on my face and sometimes I’ll use the Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti-Pollution Drops under my sunscreen. I sweat pretty much every day and am always wearing sunscreen, so I like to do a body scrub in the shower at night to scrub that all away and feel like I’m going to bed super clean. For the record, I love piping hot showers, the hottest the dial will turn - boil me!! After I get out of the shower, I layer on the moisturizers - I start with a lotion and then will layer a body oil on top if I’m feeling extra ashy in certain spots. I go through the same routine every day and it helps my body and mind recognize that it is time to start unwinding and preparing for bed. None of the products I use at night have any energizing scents like eucalyptus or lemon verbena - it’s all fragrance free. If I want a relaxing scent, I’ll turn on a diffuser or light a candle. I always travel with diffusers or candles.

AM: How important is mental health and self-care to your training and state of being whether you’re working in your sport or just being out and about?

SS: There is an undeniable link between mental health and physical well-being. Both parts have to be working in harmony. Tennis as a sport inherently requires a lot of mental energy - it’s just you out there and everyone is looking at you, so I find that taking care of my mental health is just as important as how I take care of my body. It is encouraging to see this sort of discourse make its way into more mainstream conversations and I hope that more people are encouraged to find the practices, tools, and therapies that help them.

AM: Why does the wellness space mean so much to you and what can you tell us about your new brand that you are launching next year as we know you may not be able to say too much!

SS: The wellness space is so important to me as both an athlete and as a woman. I've always loved to try new products and am constantly in pursuit of the best ways to take care of my skin and body. I will be venturing into the wellness space myself next year, so stay tuned!

AM: We know how important The Sloane Stephens Foundation is to you. Are there new projects or initiatives that you are focused on that you would like to share?

SS: Thank you for asking! The Sloane Stephens Foundation is actually celebrating our 10 year anniversary in March 2023 - I cannot believe it’s been 10 years! I wanted to use tennis as the vehicle to keep kids in school, keep them healthy, and keep them physically safe. Tennis has given me so much in my life but I know that it can feel very unapproachable, especially to people from under-resourced communities who might not be able to afford the equipment or coaching, or to underrepresented communities where they might not see a lot of players that look like them. I sought out to change that. We work with over 15,000 kids each year across the Compton Unified School District and provide tennis, academic, mental health, and financial literacy programs. One of the things I’m most proud of us that almost all of our coaches are actually graduates of our programs who have decided to come on as staff members while they pursue their college degrees. It’s very much a big family and it feels very sustainable to have programs designed and implemented by the community and for the community.

IG @sloanestephens

@sloanestephensfoundation

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | FRONT COVER + BACK COVER, PG 28 9DRIP Courtesy of Sloane Stephens | PG 16 - 19, 22 + PG 82 9PLAYLIST BNP Paribas Open | PG 21 John Cordes/Icon Sportswire | PG 25 Masha Maltsava | PG 26 Federico Pestellini/Panoramic/Icon Sportswire |

Read the DEC ISSUE #84 of Athleisure Mag and see SERVING UP SELF-CARE | Sloane Stephens in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG #80 | AUG ISSUE

In this month’s issue, our cover story is with World Cup Champion, Juventus F.C. and the France National Team Midfielder footballer, Paul Pogba. We caught up with him to talk about his passion for the game, his excitement to play for Juventus again, what it was like to win the World Cup with the French National team in 2018 and more. With STARZ’s POWER BOOK III: Raising Kanan Season 2 out now, we caught up with the show’s creator Sascha Penn and two of it’s stars Hailey Kilgore and Omar Dorsey to talk about what we can expect, what it’s like getting into that 90’s frame of mind and more. We also interview CFDA jewelry designer Sheryl Lowe of Sheryl Lowe Jewelry. We talk about how she went from a MUA in film/TV to creating this line, creating an additional line MR.LOWE. where her husband Rob Lowe and children have modeled for it and the importance of philanthropy within her collection. This Labor Day Weekend, Electric Zoo is back from Sept 2nd – 4th and we give you a heads up on what you can expect at this year’s festival on Randall’s Island here in NY. We also talk with Cheat Codes, a trio DJ/Producer trio who will also perform at this year’s event. We talk about them drawing 3 albums in under 2 years during the pandemic, how they create their music and their upcoming country project with Dolly Parton, Jimmie Allen and more. We also caught up with The Queen of Bounce, Big Freedia to talk about Bounce, No Kids Hungry and working with Beyonce.

This month’s 9PLAYLIST comes from EDM DJ/Producer Benny Benassi (cover of DEC ISSUE #60) and choreographer, dance fitness founder of the NW Method Nicole Winhoffer has one as well. Our 9DRIP comes from our STARZ’s POWER BOOK III: Raising Kanan’s, Omar Dorsey and the Queen of Bounce, Big Freedia. Our 63MIX ROUTIN3S comes from last month’s JUL ISSUE #79 cover and UFC World Champ and TUF Season 30 winner Julianna Peña. Our The 9LIST STORI3S comes from PGA golfer Justin Thomas and The 9LIST STORI3S comes from Leylah Fernandez, Felix Aliassime and Carlos Alcaraz who will be playing in this year’s US Open.

Our monthly feature, The Art of the Snack shares a stunning spot that’s known for their mussels in the Meat Packing District, Mollusca. This month’s Athleisure List comes from Bear Donut and RANG NYC. As always, we have our monthly roundups of some of our favorite finds.

Read the AUG ISSUE #80.

RALPH LAUREN UNVEILS US OPEN OUTFITS

Here in NY, the qualifying rounds for the US Open are currently underway! Starting Aug 29th - Sep 11th, the tennis tournament is bound to give us a number of major moments that we will be talking about! Ralph Lauren has been the official outfitter for this tournament since 2005. The Ralph Lauren U.S. Open Collection includes the ball crew and courtside official uniforms as well as a limited edition tennis-inspired collection. This campaign was shot at the USTA Billie King Jean National Tennis Center and featured 5 of the U.S. Open Ball Crew members as well as Ralph Lauren models.

As is the case when Ralph Lauren creates uniforms for a sporting event, you can also purchase these items as well to be part of the festivities while watching on-site, at home or when you’re out and about going about your day!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

IN THE AIR | BROOKLYN DECKER

As most of us are enjoying warmer weather, it means we have so many options that are opening up to us! We caught up with model and star, Brooklyn Decker who plays Mallory Hanson of Netflix's Grace and Frankie to find out how she got into the industry starting as a model and continuing on as an actor. We talk about upcoming projects that she's working on, how she enjoys time with her husband, former #1 world champion and US Open tennis great Andy Roddick, as well as her children and how she is joining ZYRTEC and their ReLEAF Project in partnership with the American Forests.

This tree-planting initiative helps foster a better, healthier planet for all. Together, ZYRTEC® and American Forests are helping advance tree equity in historically excluded communities, so more individuals can reap the health and environmental benefits that trees can provide.

ATHLEISURE MAG: You started in the industry as a model and we remember your cover in Sports Illustrated in 2010 and have been in a number of films and TV series, what drew you to modeling and eventually transitioning into acting?

BROOKLYN DECKER: Gosh, I got so lucky! For modeling, I was actually in the mall and someone came up to me. She was another model that I thought that I knew and she thought that she recognized me from modeling and we got to talking and she suggested that I should do it. It turns out, that because we ran track in high school, that’s why we looked familiar to each other. But that’s how I got into it because someone told me that I should explore it. As a kid growing up in Matthews, North Carolina, I didn’t think that that was an option or a career path that one could pursue. But for me, it felt like an incredible way for me to be able to travel! I had never been on a plane, I didn’t have a passport so it was a really great way for me to be able to see the world and also potentially as a way to pay for college which I ended up not even doing or going to. But that’s how it started!

Then when I was modeling, as much as I loved it, in that time it was different. You modeled, but your name wasn’t printed in magazines, you didn’t have a voice and all of my friends were in college and I was at home. I just really wanted to be able to talk! I started talking and working with an acting teacher just to have something to read and work on. At that time online courses were super super new and you had to be a full time student to do that so online education wasn’t an option for me at the time. I studied acting kind of as a way just to have something to read, to do and to say. Then, I got really lucky and got my first gig and then I did a bunch of other gigs and got another gig and was rejected from many others and it’s kind of been a pattern for the last 17 years now!

AM: We just finished watching the final episode of Grace and Frankie! I’m so bummed as we know that this is the final season and there won’t be any other episodes and we're hoping that you guys will do a movie where you’ll pop in every now and then. What made you want to be part of this show? It’s such an incredible cast and it covers so many relevant topics that are shared in it.

BD: I was in Haiti. My manager and their friends were on the board of a non-profit so we were there doing some work. I didn’t have any wi-fi access and my agent reached out to us and said there was this new show on Netflix that was casting and this was like early days of Netflix. They had House of Cards and Orange is the New Black. This would have been their first half hour comedy. And then he told me that it was starring Jane Fonda (Monster-in-Law, Lee Daniels’ The Butler, Book Club), Lily Tomlin (The West Wing, Desperate Housewives, Damages), Martin Sheen (The West Wing, The Departed, The Amazing Spider Man) and Sam Waterston (Law & Order, The Newsroom, The Dropout) and I said, I have to read for it!

Because there was no wi-fi, I couldn't read the script so I didn’t know what it was or what the part was. I just knew that they were in it, so it must be great. At the time, Netflix was really edgy and we were all so curious about what they were going to do next and what they would create next. So I had to read for it before I knew anything about the series. Once I left Haiti, I was on an airplane and I read the pilot and thought that it was hilarious. I just loved it. I loved the idea of this family comedy with a kind of heart and I hadn’t seen anything like that for a long time. It was a no brainer!

AM: We love it and now that the show has ended, what can we expect to see you in next or what are you tackling now at the moment?

BD: That’s a good question! During COVID, actually June Diane Raphael (Black Monday, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, Cheaper by the Dozen), who plays Brianna on Grace and Frankie she and I and another writer Asha Michelle Wilson (Scream Queens, Feud: Bette and Joan, American Horror Story), are writing something together. So we are currently pitching that. It’s a very dark comedy and it’s nothing like Grace and Frankie at all. But we are pitching that as we speak. It’s something that we’ve worked on for the almost a year and a half. You may never hear about it again because it may never sell or you might hear that it’s sold and turning into a show. We’ll see!

AM: That sounds exciting and you’re a busy mom with children and a husband. When you’re not on set, what’s a typical day like for you?

BD: Ooo my husband and I try to alternate travel. So if I’m not on set, that means I'm home and I’m taking my kids to school. I recently started really exercising again so I fit in some weight lifting which is my favorite thing to do workout-wise. I’ve invested in a lot of companies led by female founders and I have a few calls with founders every week that are sprinkled in regardless of filming so I will talk to a few founders about what is going on in their companies and how I can be helpful. Of course writing and I have to get outdoors at some point so there will be a neighborhood family walk or there is going to be an outdoor basketball game with the kids or a soccer game which my husband coaches my daughter’s team. So we’re always getting outdoors and a hearty glass of wine at the end of the night with a good show for whatever my husband and I are bingeing at the moment. That’s like my dream day whenever I’m not on set.

AM: Love that! You’ve been partnered with ZYRTEC for quite awhile and you’re helping them to get the word out on the importance of tree coverage and their partnership with American Forests, can you tell us more about that and then what the ReLEAF Project is?

BD: Yes so ZYRTEC partnered with the American Forests to create the ZYRTEC ReLEAF Project which is all about providing funds for research and planting trees in historically excluded communities. When you look at tree equity which is a term frankly that was new to me, I looked at it as environmental injustice, where because of discriminatory redlining, there are certain communities that don’t have access to parks; therefore, their air isn’t as clean. There are higher cases of asthma, heating and cooling is more challenging, erosion is a greater issue and a lot of that can be greatly helped simply with trees. What I love about ZYRTEC is I have been using it for years and my doctor has recommended it when I started getting allergies as an adult and my kids use it as well. So we love it as a family, but also it's nice to be able to partner with a company and they have a real mission and a give-back component. What I love about Zyrtec is that they’re saying that they are trying to give people relief so that they can enjoy the outdoors and that also includes giving communities relief so that they can enjoy the benefits of trees and nature. So, they are really committed to it and they have already started planting trees where they have targeted 3 cities around the country and they’re going to continue to do that for the rest of the year.

AM: That’s a pretty big project and we didn’t realize the association between certain communities not having trees and what that means for them as well as the air that they’re breathing. That’s really exciting that they would do that initiative.

BD: I agree. Again, it was a term that I knew as environmental injustice and that it meant that there wasn’t a financial investment in parks, green areas and community gardens and all of that directly affects the health of its citizens. So it’s nice to see companies taking that seriously and making that their mission and responsibility.

IG @brooklyndecker

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 120 - 125 Netflix/Grace & Frankie | PG 126 Zyrtec |

Read the MAY ISSUE #77 of Athleisure Mag and see IN THE AIR | Brooklyn Decker in mag.

FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME WITH SOFIA KENIN

The summer has a number of events that are on our calendar whether we're there in person or watching it on TV. The US Open happens to be one of those events that we enjoy here in NY as well as attending events around it from the Taste of Tennis and a series of media events - it's always an exciting time to see the best in the sport.

We're excited for this month's cover, Sofia Kenin who has 5 WTA Singles Titles, 2 WTA Doubles Titles, WTA 4th ranked as well as the Reigning WTA Player of the Year! With a Grand Slam under her belt as the 2020 Australian Open Champion and making the finals at the French Open last year, we are excited to see how she continues to rock it in the sport! We talk about how she got into the sport, preparing for tournaments and how she takes time to enjoy the journey when traveling around the world to play as well as taking it all in as a tourist.

ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you fall in love with tennis and at what point did you realize that you wanted to go pro?

SOFIA KENIN: I fell in love with tennis at a very young age. I started playing tennis at the age of 5 and I was watching all of these pros and I was really looking up to them. I was like, around 6 years old and that’s when my dad took me to the Miami Open and that was the video that was going all around you know, when Kim Clijsters took me all around the site and of course, I was really excited since I was such a young girl at the time to see the press conferences, to be walking around and looking at the stadium. That’s when I knew that I wanted to be a professional tennis player. I just had a big dream.

AM: What is it about the sport that draws you to it?

SK: Everything about tennis is such a great sport! It’s physical and it’s a great mental sport where you have to have toughness to play it. Of course, you get to travel around the world to see so many beautiful countries, you stay at the best hotels, the food of course, going out - of course when there wasn’t a bubble and you could explore the city. Of course, there are all the opportunities that come with it and the competition as well! You’re able to do sports interviews, you have a team around you for the matches and when you walk on the court, it’s up to you so that you can compete and leave it all out there.

AM: Our readers, and ourselves included, love watching tennis because it is fun to see our favorites traveling around the world. When it comes to training and prep, can you walk us through what a day or a week looks like in terms of practicing and working out due to an upcoming tournament?

SK: I typically practice tennis twice a day 1 and a half hour practice sessions and after that, of course lunch and recovery with some of my KT Tape. Then, I’m back with my trainer for another couple of hours and recovery is very important in my daily life. I have to maintain a good recovery so that I can do my best during the training week and upcoming tournaments.

AM: What are your go-to workouts that you do that optimize you in tennis?

SK: Sprints, drills, agility, core – a little bit of that. Of course, weights in the gym.

AM: In terms of the tennis season, when does it start and end for you?

SK: Well of course, everything has changed with the whole pandemic! Typically, the tournaments start in January in Australia which has big travel days and everything which is where I won Australia! Of course, there are all those tournaments after that and it finishes off in Asia in the fall. But the end of the season this year, will be in Indian Wells which I can’t complain because I love Indian Wells – but we usually finish our season in Asia.

AM: What is your off season like? What do you do during that time? Are you still training or do you take time for yourself to realign everything?

SK: Of course, there is a lot of training and that’s when you have to build up physically and mentally and you do have to find some downtime. It’s not all about tennis, you’re traveling on the weeks and you obviously want to have some downtime to just go hang out with my friends, some time with my family, to go to the beach, to do some shopping! I love being able to hang out in the sun and to have time in the water and to be able to work on my tan as I can’t really do that all year. So I have about a month or so to get that tan and I need to use that time.

AM: It’s always fun to see singles and doubles matches because it’s interesting to see how a player has these different dynamics when playing each one. When you’re playing, is there a different approach to when you’re playing a singles match versus doubles?

SK: Of course, singles you’re kind of on your own and the court is wide open as you need to be able to move around a lot. But doubles, you’re with your partner and it’s my friends and you’re having a good time, you don’t have to be as serious as you do for singles, but of course you still want to be able to do well. Doubles requires that you have to have a really good connection with your partner and really good hands at the net, because both players are tough and you know that they have really good hands at the net. They know how to do I-formation. You can tell the difference between a doubles player and those that just want to have fun and play which would be me. It’s fun playing doubles, I like it!

AM: It’s funny because when I worked at Lacoste HQ, our department would play tennis in the summers as a fun way to connect. I wasn’t concerned about the singles play, I was ok with that – I’m not a professional by any means, but the doubles! I always ways wondered how people were able to play this as I was always anxious about where I was standing and where my partner was, it was terrifying!

SK: It can be scary sometimes especially when the ball is coming to the net and then you’re like, “oh my God, am I going to get hit in the face?”

AM: Seriously!

SK: Right, nowadays, you hit the ball around as you’d rather hit it out, then hit your opponents.

AM: Over the past 18 months, we’ve interviewed a number of athletes and recording artists about how they were able to be creative or still active in their sport during the pandemic. We found that many of them had really creative ways that they were able to stay in shape. Did you have anything like that for last year that you had to navigate due to not being able to access certain courts or things like that?

SK: Of course! It was really difficult for everyone! We were traveling and had safe bubbles when we were participating in our tournaments as we could only go to the hotel and straight to the tournament site. Obviously, that was not the most fun thing, but ok – that’s what we had to do. It’s hard to be on the road for weeks and months at a time without being able to walk or to explore the beautiful city or Mother Nature.

Over time, I have learned that small things have been working for me. I started a new TV show that I enjoy watching and I had a few, but I started watching Keeping Up with the Kardashians or I would play some music on Spotify.

AM: Even with last year being such a tough year for so many of us in various ways, you were literally killing it! You won the Australian Open, you were a finalist at the French Open – what was it like to have that kind of achievement taking place?

SK: It was absolutely amazing and I could never describe those moments. It was the highlight of my career. It has been a dream of mine to win a Grand Slam and I was completely speechless when I won. A few tournaments that happened after that, I didn’t win, but I am only human and it happens to everyone. When you win a Grand Slam, it’s exciting and you feel a lot of pressure after that and the expectations of those from the outside and I was able to somehow find myself back and I was able to close off the year as a French Open finalist! It was nice and I was happy for the way that I was able to come back, play tennis and to be able to prove to myself that I won a Grand Slam and that it wasn’t by accident. Unfortunately, I wish that I had won the French Open, but I got to the finals and not too many people can say that. I just hope that I can continue and that I will have many more Grand Slams under my belt.

AM: For sure, I mean your stats and what you have accomplished is really phenomenal. Being ranked 4th in the WTA, being the top American in singles – that is such an amazing feat to have! What are your goals for the remainder of the season or what you’re looking forward to in terms of next year.

SK: Number 1 is to stay healthy. We always downplay it and we look at tennis, tennis, but health is #1 and you can’t buy it. With all of these tournaments being back-to-back, players can have injuries right now. It’s a great part of the season because we’re back in North America and playing in front of the US fans and I’m excited to be able to compete and to get back into my matches and hopefully continue to make more memories and getting more into the spotlight, I guess!

AM: With the remainder of the season, do you have a favorite upcoming tournament that is always your favorite to go into?

SK: I like all of them, but I’m obviously looking forward to the US Open. I love the fans, I love NYC and I love being there. I look I look forward to after the pandemic being able to enjoy seeing the city, being able to walk down 5th Ave and to see all of the people and the beautiful city.

AM: When you’re looking at your IG, of course we know you’re focused on your game, but it’s cool to see you enjoying being a tourist in the city that you’re competing in! What are your 3 favorite cities that you love to be in whether you’re shopping or eating?

SK: Thank you for saying that I’m a tourist, because I love being that and when you’re shopping, you can never go wrong in Paris, Rome or NY, it’s one of the most beautiful cities. You can do really great shopping there as they are my favorites and they have the best food!

AM: We love talking about a number of verticals from sports, travel etc. As the Style Director and fashion stylist, fashion and personal style are of interest to me as well as Athleisure Mag! I love the bold personal statements that you have made in your looks. How would you define your personal style?

SK: I think fashion is super fun and I enjoy it! I have always wanted to be a fashion designer, maybe not drawing as I don’t have the best hands for that, but being able to put pieces together as a fashion stylist. I’m easy going. I like nice dresses, I like casual wear and of course I’m not afraid to wear colors or designs. I wear a little bit of everything. Of course, I like to wear the nice top designers and I try to shop there nowadays – not trying to be spoiled or anything, but I do like keeping up with the fashion.

AM: We know you’re sponsored by FILA and in looking at your looks from last season, I love the Heritage Collection (Fall Heritage Dress) that you wore as well as Mad For Plaid (Print Racer Tank and Plaid Flared Skirt), what does it mean to have them as a sponsor and do you foresee designing a capsule collection with them?

SK: First of all, I really love the Heritage Collection as well! It’s such a great and prestigious brand and I really love that they have done such a great job in designing my clothes and we have such a great relationship. I’m really lucky to have them as my sponsors. They are super supportive of me and have always been there for me and have allowed me to be my authentic self. They also have great lifestyle clothes as well which I have obviously been asking for them to send me some outfits and shoes. It fits with my style and it’s great working with them. Once I start getting back and playing better, there is an option where maybe I can design something of my own! But right now, I enjoy what we’re doing now and maybe after my tennis career, down the road, I could be a fashion stylist or something of that nature as fashion can always come back!

AM: We talked a bit earlier about KT Tape. Why do you feel there was such a synergy between you and the brand and that it made sense for them to be a sponsor for you?

SK: It’s a great product for recovery and many people don’t realize how important recovery is. As a professional athlete, I believe that KT Tape as a brand and a company is one that fits authentically into my life. I love using products such as KT Tape Cold Massage Roller and the KT Recovery+ Pain Relief Gel Roll-On. I’m super proud to be part of that brand.

AM: Couldn’t agree more. We find when we’re at photoshoots, press junkets, media events, attending NY Fashion Week and music festivals, their KT Performance+ Blister Treatment Patch and BFF Blister Prevention Tape is something that the team enjoys using so we can continue to stay on our feet and do the job that we need to do!

You have such a passion for the sport, do you do anything to give of your time to assist the community or to work with kids that are drawn to tennis?

SK: I love being an inspiration to kids and the younger generation as I know that they look up to me. I participate in a number of activities in every tournament which I’m invited to. I love doing that. It’s a bit early in my career and a lot of players have their foundations and I help them in whatever way that I can.

AM: You’re currently the WTA Player of the Year. What do you want your legacy to be in this sport?

SK: Well I just want to keep playing and continue to enjoy myself. I want to win more Grand Slam titles. I’m 22 years old so I haven’t thought about my legacy, but I definitely want to be a role model to young girls that want to be a tennis player one day. I want them to remember my name and remember me as I have looked up to Serena Williams, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Anna Kournikova, Maria Sharapova – everyone that I have looked up to. They inspired me and I want to be someone like that for those coming up. I’d love to be an icon and maybe be the next Serena Williams, but maybe let me get a few more Grand Slams or be like the 3 GOATS Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic who have all won 20 Grand Slams which is pretty incredible! If it’s possible, I will take it!

AM: You're still in your season so when you’re not on the court, how do you take time for yourself?

SK: Of course shopping because I love it and I’m crazy about it! I love to have dinner with my friends and family, going to the beach or I can stay in bed all day and just watch Netflix and Hulu and just relax!

IG @Sofia.Kenin

PHOTOS COURTESY | Front Cover, PG 21 + 22 KT TAPE | PG 16 -18, 25 + Back Cover Sofia Kenin |

Read the JUL ISSUE #67 of Athleisure Mag and see For the Love of the Game with Sofia Kenin in mag.

THE JEWEL OF THE COURT WITH DANIELLE COLLINS

This month, our eyes turn to the US Open which takes place here in NYC. A number of tennis greats will battle with the best in their sport to walk away victorious. In addition, there are a number of fun activities around this time of year to hang out with your favorite player, to take in the game and more. Right before the Taste of Tennis, a culinary event that celebrates the US Open along with a number of athletes within the game and outside of it, we had the chance to chat with Danielle Collins who is known for her phenomenal playing as well as making jewelry for the court. We talk with her about the game, her passion for it and being a jewelry designer.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about what made you fall in love with tennis and drew you to the sport?

DANIELLE COLLINS: My draw to the sport goes back to my grade school days. Back then, every Monday to kick off the week we had Show and Tell. There was a boy at school who would bring in these shiny trophies he'd won over the weekends to show our class. I remember seeing the trophies and asking my Dad how I could win trophies like that, and he told me if I worked really hard I could win some trophies, too. I guess you can say that I've always had the competitive spirit from an early age, and loved the way tennis makes you problem solve on your own.

AM: What was the moment when you realized that you wanted to go pro?

DC: I knew I wanted to go pro when I was seven years old watching the Grand Slams on television with my parents. I didn't really know how to put my game all together as a junior, and didn't have the opportunity to turn pro right out of finishing high school. College helped me grow so much personally and as an athlete. Winning two national championships at UVA gave me confidence to know I could also have success at the professional level.

AM: How was playing in the quarterfinals in doubles at Wimbeldon?

DC: I absolutely loved competing with Bethanie. She was so much fun to share the court with and her energy is contagious! Getting to the quarterfinals was really huge for me personally, as I had never made quarterfinals in a Doubles Slam before.

AM: How has the current season been since the US Open is around the corner?

DC: The current season has been great. I am continuing to make progress within my game, and gaining the experiencing I need. Sometimes I don't get the results I want, but right now I am more focused on trying to continue to develop my game, and on the daily process to get myself to the next level.

AM: What is an average day like when you are in training for your next match?

DC: Training days are always different unless we are in pre-season. When I'm on the road, there are many variables during tournaments. We make time for strength and conditioning workouts everyday, put the hours in on court, and work with my sports psychologist/ performance coach. We also spend a lot of time focusing on recovery and making sure my body is getting what it needs to relax.

AM: What is the tennis season like?

DC: The tennis season is very long, but perfect for me since I love competition and traveling.

AM: We love accessories, what drew you to jewelry and how did this interest become another passion?

DC: What I love most about jewelry is the story each piece can share, and how sentimental jewelry is for people. For me, every piece of jewelry I own has some type of unique story behind why I designed it or what drew me into buying it. Designing jewelry allows me to use my creativity and imagination, in a way that is much different from tennis. I've always been passionate about fashion and art, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to partner with Ritani to showcase my other passion in life.

AM: We know you have partnerships/sponsorships with New Balance and Head Racquets. When did you start working with them and what do you do with each of these relationships?

DC: Head and New Balance have been incredible for me and my career. I have been working with Head for about two years now and New Balance for a little over a year. There is no better feeling when you have two highly respected companies like these two, giving so much care and support to my career. The teams that New Balance and Head, work so diligently behind the scenes to make sure that we have the best equipment. Head has been so great in helping me accommodate to any specific needs that I have had with making sure my racquet is just the way I want and need it to feel. What both of them do is really special, and I am so grateful to have them a part of my career. They mean the world to me!

AM: Tell us about the Danielle Collins Jewelry line and of course about your diamond tennis bracelets?

DC: Launching at Wimbledon was so incredibly special to me. Wimbledon is the holy grail of our sport, and the rich tennis tradition is something that cannot be compared anywhere else in the world. When we launched, I was happy to carry on the tradition of elegance that the tennis bracelet represents. So many of the fans and jewelry lovers remember back in the 70s when Chris Evert was sporting her diamond tennis bracelet on court. I loved bringing back that vintage aesthetic, and was proud of the exquisiteness that Ritani engrained into each of the small details and sparkly diamonds.

AM: What is the full offering of pieces available at Danielle Collins Jewelry line?

DC: The full offering available is Necklaces, Bracelets, and Earrings. We offer some finer pieces and some more fun whimsical ones as well.

AM: What pieces from yourdo you wear during your matches?

DC: The jewelry that I wear during my match are a diamond tennis bracelet and double pendant diamond necklace.

AM: When creating your line, what inspires your pieces from legendary tennis players to various aesthetics?

DC: When designing, I enjoy creating a variety of different pieces. All of my pieces have one thing in common -- they are timeless, and will not go out of style. While some pieces are more whimsical and playful, and others follow a more classic design, at the core, it’s about the meaning behind them.

AM: When you are creating your pieces as you intend to have them worn during playing, what are you looking to include and to avoid?

DC: When I am creating my pieces and intend to have them worn I like wearing pieces that are edgy and sophisticated. I try to make sure each piece is lightweight enough to wear so that I am 100% comfortable moving around on court. The material that I like to include the most is diamonds. They are one of the world’s toughest materials, and at the same time, they shine and are sophisticated. I try to be one of the toughest players on tour, and at the same time I try to be fashionable! The art of jewelry and wearing these pieces allows me to showcase my creative sense of style, and reminds me to be tough on court.

AM: As a professional player and entrepreneur, what lessons did you learn that inform how you go about your endeavours?

DC: Being both a professional tennis player and entrepreneur has taught me a lot of lessons along the way. Both have taught me how to network, organize, and manage my career and jewelry line. But the most important thing both have taught me is knowing how to take appropriate risks.

AM: In St. Pete, Florida, where can we find you grabbing a meal/cocktail, working out and going shopping?

DC: On the weekends, you can find me at Bern's Steakhouse in Tampa, grabbing my favorite meal. I enjoy going to hot yoga on the weekends, and shopping at Restoration Hardware to draw inspiration for my home.

AM: What are 3 items that you tend to carry in your carry on when you’re traveling?

DC: Three items I carry in my bag when traveling: sunscreen, hair brush, and mascara.

IG @DanimalCollins

Read the Aug Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Jewel of the Court with Danielle Collins in mag.

20TH ANNUAL CITI TASTE OF TENNIS NYC 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY | Paul Farkas

Although we’re in the midst of NYFW and fresh off of releasing Athleisure Mag’s Aug Issue which has our Electric Zoo cover, SayMyName (the Godfather of Hard Trap as well as additional EDM DJ/Producers) - we’re doing a bit of backtracking as we made our way to the 20th Annual Citi Taste of Tennis NYC 2019 which took place during the US Open and was held at Cipriani 42nd St. This event celebrates tennis greats that included John Isner, Venus Williams, Serena Williams, Coco Gauff, Andy Roddick, Milan Tyson, Gaël Monfils, Daniil Medvedev, Felix Auger Aliassime, Belinda Bencic, Abi Spears, Vania King, Jamie Loeb, Monica Puig, Donna Vekic, Bethanie Mattek Sands, Kristi Ahn, Danielle Collins and more.

In addition, there were noted chefs that included Richard Blais (Juniper and Ivy), Masaharu Morimoto (Morimoto), Sujan Sarkar (Baar Baar), Edward Lee (Milkwood), Chef Bao Bao (Baoburg), Lamar Moore (The Swill Inn), Rory MacDonald (Chanson Patisserie), Kerry Heffernan (Grand Banks), Michael Han (Ortzi), Julian Medina (Toloache), Mina Newman (Sen Sakana), Cedric Tovar (Lotte NY Palace), John Stage (Dinosaur BBQ), Neil Cline (British Virgin Islands), Sani Hebaj (Dabble @ The Conrad), Mike Viola (Boars Head), Anastacia Song (American Cut). In addition, other notable athletes such as Mike Tyson were also there as well.

One of the highlights of the night included a sibling rivalry of the Williams Sisters and Chef Richard Blais as they competed onstage during this cooking competition and interestingly enough, they tied for their best dish.

In between enjoying signature dishes along with Diplomatico Rum and Zonin Prosecco, guests enjoyed dancing to DJ Mad Linx, The Rakiem Walker Band and reggae artist, Naomi Cowen.

You can see more from the event via @AthleisureMag’s Instagram account.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Paul Farkas

PHOTOGRAPHY | Paul Farkas

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

THE GOAL WITH SLOANE STEPHENS

We had the pleasure of talking with professional tennis player Sloane Stephens, who is ranked in the top 10 by the Women's Tennis Association. Her accolades include winning the US Open in 2017, as well as 6 WTA singles titles as well as representing Team USA in Tennis at the Olympic Games in Rio 2016! We took a moment to chat with Sloane about her early days of tennis, going pro, her goals for this year as she prepares for an array of matches, the importance of staying healthy, as well as information on the Sloane Stephens Foundation.

ATHLEISURE MAG: At what point did you realize that you were going to be a tennis player and at what point did you realize that you were going to go pro?

SLOANE STEPHENS: Well I started playing tennis early because I played across the street at the club and my mom always wanted me to be a tennis player and I don’t know why. I just started playing and it was just for fun. I started in summer camps and just across the street at the club and that’s just how I started. And then obviously, when I turned Pro, you have to decide whether you’re going to go to college or if you’re going to turn Pro. I got to that little middle ground and I was like, “ok I’m just going to try it and see what happens” and it worked out. Obviously when you’re starting out it’s tough because at the beginning you’re making the transition into Pros and it’s a different ballgame. That’s how I decided, it wasn’t anything that was profound, I just wanted to try it to see and hoped that it would work out – so I just went for it.

AM: You won the US Open in 2017, what are your goals to reclaim that title this year?

SS: Well obviously, every tournament that you go into each year, the draws are always different in terms of who you will be playing with, so there is a whole different scenario. I think that for me, the important part is staying healthy. That’s been a big part for me, as obviously I got injured and missed a lot of months, and that is when I had my career kind of reset and it wasn’t fun and it is always something that I keep in the back of mind as I don’t want to do that again. Just being able to reset and stay healthy. Since I have been back, I haven’t had that many injuries just little nagging, that stuff that everyone normally gets which has been great. But most importantly, it’s about staying healthy.

AM: We know that you have been a partner with Built with Chocolate Milk since 2017. What about this partnership has been synergistic with your brand and why are you such a big fan of chocolate milk in general?

SS: Well before I even signed with them, I have been a fan of chocolate milk and have always enjoyed drinking it. I remember being at the Olympic Committee like 7 or 8 years ago and they were like, “yeah chocolate milk is a great recovery tool that you can enjoy drinking. I was like, “yeah perfect” – they didn’t need to convince me to drink it ha! I can just drink it all the time. When I signed with them. I knew it was perfect because I drink it all of the time and it is in my routine and it actually helps me. It’s very natural and super easy. It’s good for me, it helps me recover and I can stay fit with it. It just went into the general – this is good for you, it’s what you need and it has been a great partnership for me thus far.

AM: What are your goals for 2019 that you are looking forward to during the season?

SS: Just a lot of travel and there is a lot of during the year, especially prior to the Olympics. So it’s about staying healthy throughout the season and obviously just trying to maintain throughout the year. We all try to do that in terms of staying healthy and with nutrition which is important in terms of recovery. With all the traveling on the road 30 weeks a year, which is absurd haha, you need to maintain and stay healthy for that recovery. It all plays such an important role in maintenance which is such an important thing.

AM: We know that you were in Rio for the Olympics in 2016, how did that feel to represent the US at the Olympic Games and are you planning to go to Tokyo in 2020.

SS: Yeah obviously Rio was my first Olympic Games and I was super pumped about that. Obviously, it was in incredible experience just in general, and I do want to play the next Olympics as that would be really great for me. But obviously it’s a lot of hard work. I just finished playing Fed Cup and you have to qualify for the Olympics, be eligible, there is a lot that goes into it, but obviously playing for your country and the Olympics is the greatest honor that you can have to represent your country.

The Opening Ceremonies were amazing and I would love to play in this next one as the one after that, I would probably be too old so this would be my last go at it, but I am excited for it. I think it will be great!

AM: Our readers of Athleisure Mag and our listeners of our podcast network, Athleisure Studio know that one of our podcasts, The Road to Tokyo 2020 is dedicated to Olympic athletes and we’re always amazed at the time and dedication needed in order to participate! So we will keep our eyes out to see you on your journey there.

SS: Oh yeah it’s amazing, but all of the qualifications that are leading up to the Olympics. Like everyone just sees what happens when you’re at the Olympics competing, but before that, it's like a year and a half of pre-qualifications and tournaments. It’s a lot of stuff and to get there, obviously it means that you’re amazing and that you took all of those steps to get there which is really cool.

AM: Can you tell us more about the Sloane Stephens Foundation?

SS: Sure, the Sloane Stephens Foundation is based in Compton, California and it’s in the school district. We have 23 schools that participate in the after school credit program and then we have a Saturday program as well. A lot of schools are taking out recess and I think that recess is really important. Being able to bring tennis to the community of Compton is really important and to show them what it’s about, how it’s fun and what the tools of tennis provides you and how you can use it as a vehicle to get you where you need to be whether it’s a high school team, a college team, a community college – whatever it might be. Maybe you want to get a job in tennis to work at a Tennis Journal or for Tennis Magazine, there is a lot of different things that you can do to work in tennis and so many different ways that you can branch out and I think that giving those kids the opportunity to seek more in life whether it be a job or a team – it’s given me a lot in life and I have used it as a means as a vehicle to get me to a lot of places in life and different things that I would have wanted to do. Without tennis, I would not have been able to do those things and I think that giving this opportunity back feels so good as it’s not just for me, it’s for the community.

AM: We’re all about the importance of tribes and those that have influenced us whether personally or professionally as #TRIBEGOALS are essential.

SS: Obviously my mom has been very supportive of me and my career My brothers have also been supportive and have cheered me on and encouraged me to do whatever it is that I have wanted to do. My grandparents are very supportive. Everything I have wanted to do, they have encouraged me to try it out, have fun and if it doesn’t work out, I can always come home. To have that attitude in my life that I can go out and try things and if it works out great, if not, I can figure it out and do it again or go in another direction – it’s a great way for me to live my life and has been so cool.

IG @SloaneStephens

PHOTOS COURTESY | PG 74 Scott Draper | PG 77 Brecht Van’t Hof | PG 82 Zhukovsky |

You can hear Sloane Stephens' interview in May on our show, #TRIBEGOALS which is a part of Athleisure Studio, our multi-media podcast network! Make sure to subscribe to find out when the episode drops. You can hear it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and wherever you enjoy listening to your favorite podcast

Read Athleisure Mag’s April Issue and see The Goal with Sloane Stephens in mag.

S1. E9. | #TRIBEGOALS WITH WTA SLOANE STEPHENS

On today’s #TRIBEGOALS we’re chatting with WTA and US Open 2017 winner, Sloane Stephens. We find out how she came to tennis as well as her decision to go pro, her focus this season as she takes on an array of matches, the importance of staying healthy as well as what it was like to represent Team USA in 2016 for the Olympic Games at Rio.

BAPE X WILSON CAMO EDITION COLLECTION

We attended the launch of the BAPE X Wilson Camo Edition Collection launch at the BAPE store right before the US Open. We took some time to talk to Kristina Peterson-Lohman of Wilson to find out how this collaboration came about.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Can you tell us about the relationships between the heritage of Wilson as a brand and it's relationship to tennis.

KRISTINA PETERSON-LOHMAN: Wilson was founded in 1914 and one of the very first sports it made gear for was tennis. We've been at the heart of the sport since that time.

AM: How did the partnership with BAPE come about and why is this a collaboration that Wilson would want to do?

KPL: We know that people who love tennis are looking for ways to stand out on court - even challenge the status quo of what traditional tennis gear looks like. A few weeks ago, we introduced our new camouflage "CAMO" Edition collection of performance tennis gear. The inspiration for this collection was New York - a youthful, vibrant, bustling city - and home to the only grand slam in Amerca.

The BAPE Wilson collaboration is a next step in our mission to change the game, give our players more vibrant and contemporary choices, and better connect to the lives of our players... both on and off the court. It's a unique partnership between the leader in performance tennis and the leader in premium street-style apparel, shoes and accessories. And in our eyes, there is no other apparel brand that is more synonymous with camouflage, urban, edgy street-style, and premium high end clothing than BAPE.

AM: What items are within this collaboration?

KPL: The BAPE Wilson camo racket will be available a bit later this year in BAPE stores around the world. And we look forward to sharing additional BAPE Wilson products with everyone in the next few months.

AM: In addition to purchasing at the BAPE store, is this racket available at Wilson's pop up store at the US Open?

KPL: The Wilson CAMO Edition collection is available at our retail store on the US Open grounds. The BAPE Wilson racket will be available a bit later this year in BAPE stores in the US and in Japan.

Check out the August Issue of Athleisure Mag

EVENT | THE BROOFIELD PLACE TENNIS OPEN WITH PRINCE + PRINCE PLAYERS

Prince, an American born leading global racquet sports brand, will be taking New York City in the coming weeks with Team Prince players, John Isner, top 11 ATP player, and Lucas Pouille, top 20 ATP player. Both players will take on the US Open next week using their Prince racquets.

To kick everything off, tomorrow, Sat 25th, both players will hit the courts at the Brookfield Place Tennis Open sponsored by Prince. The players will enjoy a fun public match to kick off the event with a series of contests which include a serve return and a tie break contest. Demonstrations, games and prizes will be made to the public. In addition, throughout the championship, fans should keep an eye out for Prince Ambassadors distributing free gear throughout the city.

John Isner is introducing the Beast Pro 100 LB. This version of the Beast 100 is 27.5" in length and is built to his specs which makes it heavier and longer than the standard Beast 100. It features the second generation of Textreme, a uniquely flexible material that has been updated with Twaron for more dampened feel at impact. Consumers will be allowed to purchase a version of the Beast 100 Pro in the same spec as this Prince athlete.

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BROOKFIELD PLACE TENNIS OPEN 08.25.18 1pm - 6pm

Brookfield Place New York

Waterfront Plaza

230 Vesey Street

NY, NY 10281

NAILING IT WITH AGNIESZKA RADWANSKA

The month of Aug and Sep are not just about summer frolicking - but the US Open comes to NYC with a number of events on and off the court to connect with your favorite tennis players who will be performing at Arthur Ashe Stadium as well as iconic greats who are still associated with the sport.

We took some time to catch up with Agnieszka "Aga" Radwańska, who is ranked #11 to find out how she got into the sport, how she trains throughout the year, her personal style and of course, her partnership with Inglot Cosmetics which has an array of nail polishes that are a great way to showcase your style.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us your journey on what it took to become a tennis player.

AGA RADWANSKA: I started very young with my father in Krakow, Poland. My sister and I started hitting balloons with mini rackets. Once I realized I could be a good player, we started traveling in Europe and playing junior tournaments. When I won junior Wimbledon, I realized
that I could make a good career in tennis.

AM: What is it like to train for each match and what workouts do you do?

AR: The tennis season is very long (11 months), so my main training block is usually in December. The focus can vary from strength, conditioning, aerobic and speed training. There can be a lot of interval training, weights and long runs. I prefer being on court than in the gym
so we try to tie in a lot of the routines with some tennis drills. All my training is monitored with a heart monitor to measure performance and improvement.

AM: What does the US Open mean to you and how have you been preparing for it?

AR: New York is one of the best cities in the world so the atmosphere is always electric. There is such a buzz. I have been preparing by playing warm-up events in Toronto, Cincinnati and New Haven.

AM: What is your tennis style versus what you wear when you're going out with friends?

AR: Lotto normally produces cool dresses for me to play tennis and I have some input in the design. When I go out with friends I like to mix things up, though typically a casual look - jeans, sneakers and a sweater or tee shirt. Polish winters can be pretty harsh so I like to layer.

AM: Tell us about your partnership with Inglot and more about the line.

AR: Our collaboration is a perfect fit as we both share the same values and outlook. We both share a heritage in Poland, but here we are together in Times Square, NYC; looking to conquer the world. I have been a fan and consumer of their products for a long time so the collaboration is truly a great honor. I hope that the looks we have produced have a broad appeal and can be mixed with many outfits.

AM: Why did you want to have a nail line and what can we expect in future collaborations with this brand in nails as a category or even other products that they offer?

AR: Simply, I love nails. Anyone that knows me will tell you that I spend more time on my nails than anyone else I know. I even like to paint my nails before matches and tournaments – they are a part of my life on and off .court. Stay tuned for more great color and looks

Read more from the Sep Issue and see Nailing it with Agnieszka Radwanska in mag.

TAKE A MOMENT

We're in the midst of coming off of NYFW as we head into the rest of Fashion Month, we've launched our clothing line within our 2nd Annual Athleisure House NYFW event, US Open and so much more. We don't get a lot of down time but when we do - we like to seriously relax and take some time to just do absolutely nothing - while looking cute doing it. 

With little time on our hands, we tend to go to a number of stores looking for specific items so that we can go onto our next destination; however, prior to NYFW we hung out with our friend's at Marshalls to check out their new location at Tribeca and challenged ourselves to pull together items within a theme for around $100. In full disclosure, entering a store without having a clear list of items you need and exact products/brands that you will get seemed a bit foreign. But at this location, we entered seeing a seatingarea where you could charge your devices and just take a breather pre/post shopping, then you descend into this location which has two large floors and you start to think about all the possibilities and you feel like you're going on a scavenger hunt with no list in mind. Somehow, upon entering this shop, we started to realize that the notion of browsing and allowing things to catch your interest was definitely a great idea. Even doing a few laps around the store to discover more items became a fun experience. 

As we went from rack to rack, we found a number of brands (some that we were so shocked were there and an even better shock knowing how much this would actually cost if you purchased it elsewhere) that were of interest to us that would be perfect for a weekend in whether you're on a college campus, having time with your girlfriends or prepping for a Bingely session with your favorite streaming platform. We left with one of our favorite tees from James Perse (we live in these tees and getting them at such an amazing price made us make a mental note to try to find other colors each week as there is always new inventory hitting the floors), Tommy Hilfiger joggers (travel essential), Steve Madden Girl quilted duffle (which is not too big so you can take it to the gym but also use it for errands), eye mask (not included in this picture), a package of ABS Style socks (when you're always at the gym you like to be well stocked), and BC facial wipes.

We even had a few dollars left over to come back on a future trip or to snag tasty treats that are near the cashier article. We'll definitely browse again as you never know what will literally fall into your cart whether you're buying for yourself OR for a friend's present, something for the home and beyond.