Cover Tennis greats Roger Federer and Serena Williams claiming victory at the French Open (Photos, from left: Rolex; Getty Images / Dan Istitene)
Tennis greats Roger Federer and Serena Williams claiming victory at the French Open (Photos, from left: Rolex; Getty Images / Dan Istitene)
1 / 1
As the clay courts of Paris ignite with the fervour of the French Open 2025, we turn our gaze beyond the baseline to the exquisite timepieces that adorn the wrists of tennis greats
Tennis fans are currently tuned into the French Open, the spectacle of athleticism, grit and enduring elegance we also know as Roland-Garros. As the world’s top and rising players battle it out on the unforgiving clay courts, vying for one of the sport’s most coveted titles, there’s a subtle yet significant parallel playing out on their wrists.
For decades, luxury watch brands have recognised the powerful synergy between their pursuit of precision and the unwavering dedication of tennis champions. Endorsements and ambassadorships are a testament to shared values of excellence, performance and a timeless commitment to mastery.
While navigating the thrilling matches of Roland-Garros 2025, it’s the perfect time to appreciate the horological masterpieces that accompany these titans of the court, embodying the very spirit of their legendary careers.
See also: What celebrities wore at F1 Monaco Grand Prix 2025
Rafael Nadal and Richard Mille
The undisputed “King of Clay” with an astonishing record of French Open titles, Rafael Nadal’s choice of timepiece is as unconventional and high-performing as his game. Since 2010, Nadal has been famously associated with Richard Mille, a brand renowned for its avant-garde designs, extreme lightness and shock resistance—qualities essential for a watch worn during intense matches.
Richard Mille specifically engineered ultra-light tourbillon watches for Nadal to wear during play, a feat almost unheard of in luxury watchmaking. Models like the RM 27-03 Tourbillon Rafael Nadal showcase the brand’s commitment to pushing horological boundaries, featuring vibrant colours and materials designed to withstand the G-forces of a professional tennis swing.
Roger Federer and Rolex
Elegance, grace and unparalleled success define Roger Federer, and his long-standing partnership with Rolex is nothing short of iconic. Since 2001, Federer has been a global ambassador for the crown, a collaboration that perfectly mirrors their shared values. While Federer has retired from professional tennis, both his legacy and his association with Rolex continue to inspire.
Federer is often seen sporting classic yet robust pieces like the Rolex Datejust, Day-Date or the Oyster Perpetual. The understated sophistication and unwavering reliability of a Rolex resonate deeply with Federer’s composed demeanour and his consistent, record-breaking career. It’s a partnership built on mutual respect for heritage, mastery and a quiet confidence that transcends fleeting trends.
Read more: Get a peek into the life of Roger Federer in Assouline’s latest book
Serena Williams and Audemars Piguet
A force of nature on the court who has remained a global superstar, Serena Williams has reshaped the sport with her power, athleticism and unwavering determination. Her choice of watch brand, Audemars Piguet, aligns perfectly with her bold and distinctive style. Williams became an ambassador for the Swiss haute horology brand in 2014, often seen wearing their distinctive timepieces both on and off the court.
She frequently sports models from the iconic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore collections. These watches, known for their audacious octagonal bezels, integrated bracelets and robust construction, embody a blend of sporty functionality and high-end luxury. Williams famously wore a rose gold Royal Oak Offshore with a diamond bezel during her 2015 French Open victory.
Novak Djokovic and Hublot
Joining its family of ambassadors in 2021, Novak Djokovic has found his horological match in Hublot. His partnership with the Swiss watchmaker is a testament to their shared philosophy of pushing boundaries and achieving firsts, anchored on precision, power and tactical brilliance.
The Serbian has been seen wearing various Hublot timepieces, including models from the Big Bang collection. The brand even released a special Big Bang Unico Novak Djokovic edition, crafted with materials inspired by his racquets and polos, emphasising lightweight performance and robust engineering—simply fitting for the world’s most dominant male player today.
Jannik Sinner and Rolex
The dynamic Italian talent has rapidly ascended the ranks of men’s tennis with his powerful groundstrokes and calm poise. His partnership with Rolex, which began in 2020, solidifies his position as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
Sinner has been seen wearing various Rolex models, often opting for classic and robust pieces that reflect his focused and disciplined approach to tennis. His association with the brand underscores a shared pursuit of excellence and a quiet confidence that belies his age, making him a compelling figure both on and off the court.
Carlos Alcaraz and Rolex
The prodigious brilliance of Carlos Alcaraz has rapidly taken the tennis world by storm, and fittingly, he too has joined the esteemed ranks of Rolex Testimonees, becoming an ambassador in 2022. With a game characterised by explosive power, incredible athleticism and a mature strategic mind, the young phenom embodies the future of tennis, much like Rolex represents enduring quality and a forward-looking vision in watchmaking.
Read more: A closer look at Carlos Alcaraz’s sensational Rolex watches
Alcaraz has been spotted with various Rolex models, including the highly sought-after Rolex Daytona. His recent appearances, including at the premiere of his Netflix documentary, have showcased a rare Rolex Daytona 116576TBR in platinum with a diamond-set bezel and an ice-blue dial. This choice underscores his rapid ascent to the pinnacle of the sport and his alignment with a brand that signifies ultimate achievement and aspirational luxury.
Andy Murray and Rado
Sir Andy Murray served as ambassador for Rado. The Brit was particularly associated with the Rado HyperChrome chronograph, which is known for its lightweight, monobloc high-tech ceramic cases that offer exceptional comfort and scratch resistance.
Forged in 2012, the partnership highlights Rado’s pioneering spirit and its dedication to pushing material boundaries, much like Murray pushed himself to the limits throughout his illustrious career. It’s a fitting alliance between a brand that values innovation and a player who consistently defied expectations.
Iga Świątek and Rolex
Dominating the women’s game with her powerful forehand and relentless consistency, Iga Świątek has earned her moniker as the modern-day “Queen of Clay”, echoing Nadal’s dominance on the red dirt. Like Alcaraz, Sinner and Federer, the Polish player is a Rolex Testimonee, having joined the brand in 2021. Her partnership with Rolex speaks to her unwavering focus, precision and remarkable achievements at such a young age.
Świątek is often seen with a Rolex Datejust, including one with a distinctive purple dial and diamond Roman numerals. This choice reflects her elegant yet powerful game, as well as her consistent climb to the top of the world rankings.
Naomi Osaka and Tag Heuer
To reflect its dynamic spirit, Tag Heuer embraces athletes who push boundaries in every aspect of their lives. As a powerful and outspoken voice both on and off the court, it is no surprise that Naomi Osaka has forged a partnership with the watchmaker since January 2021.
This collaboration has notably brought about the Tag Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Naomi Osaka Limited Edition, a mean green timepiece that blends robust functionality with distinctive aesthetic touches, including a unique flower pattern. It highlights the brand’s dedication to high-performance chronographs and its appreciation for athletes who are not only champions but also cultural icons.
Don't miss: 15 documentaries about female athletes and women’s sports teams to watch now
Ash Barty and Rado
The beloved former world No. 1 has maintained a long-standing and authentic partnership with Rado since 2017, even after her retirement from professional tennis. Ashleigh Barty’s genuine, easygoing nature and exceptional talent deeply echo Rado’s brand philosophy, which emphasises reliability, accuracy and innovative design.
Barty has collaborated on several special editions, including the charming True Square x Ash Barty Limited Edition, crafted from light rose high-tech ceramic with subtle nods to her career, like the small tennis ball on the dial. This enduring partnership speaks to Rado’s appreciation for athletes who embody integrity and a timeless connection to the sport.
Andre Agassi and Longines
It may not be as widely publicised as some contemporary endorsements, but the iconic “Punisher” of the Nineties was notably an ambassador for Longines later in his career. Andre Agassi brought a rock-and-roll edge to tennis with his flamboyant style and aggressive baseline game; and it seems that the Swiss brand, with its rich heritage and elegant timepieces, found a compelling narrative in his journey from rebellious youth to respected elder statesman of the sport.
Agassi’s enduring appeal, much like the brand’s classic designs, continues to resonate with fans and collectors alike.
NOW READ
Rising tennis star Alex Eala takes us through her life, career and dreams
Discover the watches worn and loved by your favourite NBA stars
Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
