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It seems like major sports fashion brand Puma is mapping a return to the top after launching its first global campaign for over a decade. The Puma brand has been respected and popular in professional sports throughout its history, but it’s fair to say it took a backward step in recent times. How did Puma go from being a major sports brand to disappearing from the focus and being passed by competitors, including Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and Castore? Was it intentional, or did someone from Puma drop the ball?
Whatever the reason for Puma’s dip in recent years, brands, like athletes, are measured by how they recover from adversaries. And Puma has come out swinging as they aim to entice back those once loyal to the name while introducing Puma to a new generation of sports players, clubs, and fans. It looks like they mean business too, launching its new line of high-performance sports clothing in Paris this week. The big names are already on board, with Puma signing a deal to become the official provider of several national sports teams, including Jamaica and Brazil.
Are you ready for a summer of sport that includes the UEFA European Championship in Germany and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris? Puma certainly is, and they’ll be working with some leading names. Check the top names quoted at Online Sports Betting, and you’ll see many athletes who are competing wearing Puma. Could their high-performance kit give them an edge? The leading gambling apps offer markets and odds on Paris 2024, from the 100m to the long jump and everything in between.
Crossing the divide
Watch this summer’s Olympic Games, and you’ll notice that the best athletes wear the biggest names in sports fashion. That’s to be expected, given the athlete’s popularity and success on the global stage. But many cross the divide, moving from sports stars wearing major brands to sports stars creating fashion brands. Who are the most famous athletes owning sports brands?
In this article, we highlight the biggest names in sports who used their fame, fortune, and experience to launch sports fashion brands. Some names were more famous than others, and some brands performed better than others. There have been a few former players who launched brands only to see them fall flat on the global stage. But we like to focus on the success stories. Athletes are a special breed who know what success feels like and refuse to fail, even in such a competitive environment like the fashion industry.
Keep reading as we reveal our list of the athletes who impressed us the most with their fashion brands. These brands are already successful and are available to buy online and on the high street today. Some are more successful than others, but we aimed for a good spread of athletes from various backgrounds.
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Serena Williams
Serena Williams, known for her dominance on the tennis court, has also made significant strides in the fashion industry. In 2018, she launched the Serena Williams Collection, a fashion line that celebrates inclusivity and empowerment.
Williams’ brand offers a range of clothing, from activewear to casual wear, designed to fit all body types and sizes. With a focus on diversity and body positivity, the Serena Williams Collection has garnered praise for its stylish designs and inclusive messaging. Williams’ entrepreneurial spirit and passion for fashion have propelled her brand to success, earning her recognition as a trailblazer in both sports and fashion.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most iconic soccer players of all time, has leveraged his global fame to establish the CR7 brand. Launched in 2014, CR7 offers a wide range of products, including clothing, footwear, underwear, fragrance, and accessories.
Ronaldo’s brand reflects his style, combining sophistication with modern flair. With an emphasis on quality and innovation, CR7 has become a prominent player in the fashion industry, appealing to fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. Ronaldo’s dedication to excellence, both on and off the field, has contributed to the success of his eponymous brand, solidifying his status as a fashion icon.
LeBron James
LeBron James, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, has collaborated with Nike to create the Nike LeBron Collection. Since signing with Nike as a teenager, James has released numerous signature shoes and apparel lines that reflect his on-court prowess and off-court style.
The Nike LeBron Collection features cutting-edge designs and innovative technologies, catering to athletes and sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. James’ influence extends beyond basketball, as he continues to inspire fashion trends and push the boundaries of athletic wear. With a focus on performance and style, the Nike LeBron Collection has become synonymous with excellence, mirroring James’ journey to greatness.
David Beckham
David Beckham, a former professional soccer player and fashion icon, has established himself as a leading figure in the fashion industry. In addition to his collaborations with brands like Adidas and H&M, Beckham co-owns the British heritage brand Kent & Curwen.
Known for its classic menswear and vintage-inspired designs, Kent & Curwen has experienced a resurgence under Beckham’s leadership, attracting a new generation of customers while honoring its rich history. Beckham has also launched DB Eyewear, a collection of sunglasses that combines timeless style with modern sophistication. With his impeccable taste and global appeal, Beckham continues to influence fashion trends and elevate the brands he represents.
Rihanna
OK, so not strictly an athlete, but Rihanna has changed the sports fashion market for the better. The multi-talented artist and entrepreneur has made a significant impact on the fashion industry with her brand, Fenty. Launched in 2019 in partnership with luxury conglomerate LVMH, Fenty offers a range of products, including clothing, footwear, accessories, and cosmetics.
Rihanna’s brand embraces diversity and inclusivity, celebrating beauty in all its forms. Fenty has garnered acclaim for its bold designs, innovative fabrics, and forward-thinking approach to fashion. Rihanna’s influence extends beyond the runway, as she uses her platform to challenge traditional beauty standards and champion underrepresented voices. With Fenty, Rihanna has redefined the boundaries of fashion and established herself as a visionary designer and businesswoman.
