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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Lifestyle
Sabrina Carder

The meaning behind Serena Williams' Swarovski Swoosh brooch at Wimbledon

Wimbledon 2019 is off to a strong start for Serena Williams, who not only defeated Giulia Gatto-Monticone in straight sets during the women's singles first round on Centre Court, but did it whilst wearing a one-of-a-kind outfit by Nike.

The tennis pro has a long-running relationship with Nike as well as Off-White designer Virgil Abloh, who frequently collaborates with the athleisure brand. Serena has worn designs by Nike x Off-White at recent competitions, including this year's French Open where Williams wore a black and white caped look with the words 'Mother, Champion, Queen, Goddess' written in French.

Even with Wimbledon's strict all-white dress code, the 37-year-old managed to find a way to jazz up her custom cut-out white Nike dress with a dazzling crystal brooch in the shape of the brand's recognisable Swoosh logo.

The accessory, fittingly nicknamed "the Broosh", was the first of its kind, made out of exactly 34 Swarovski crystals to represent the age Serena was when she won her most recent London Slam at Wimbledon in 2016. Taking the athlete's Grand Slam total up to 23.

Serena Williams wore Nike for the women's singles first round at Wimbledon 2019 (AFP/Getty Images)

The symbolic brooch was inspired by vintage decorative jewellery. Global Design Director for NikeCourt, Abby Swancutt, explained: "I also wanted her to feel like it was something her grandmother could have worn, but of course give it a modern spin and make it just right for Serena".

The custom made

With Serena now through to the second round we're sure there will be plenty more eye-catching ensembles still to come.

For the best of Serena Williams on-court fashion, check out this gallery.

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