Paul’s wimbledon gamble: burberry goes full couture for tennis star’s wedding
Tommy Paul is betting big on style – and it’s not just on the court. The tennis star is trading his whites for a bespoke navy double-breasted tuxedo for his upcoming wedding, a move signaling a serious commitment to a look that’s anything but ordinary.
A tailored triumph: burberry’s bespoke wedding collection
Just weeks before the big day, and sandwiched between Wimbledon training sessions, Paul revealed the details of his extravagant wedding attire to Vibe Living. He’s partnering with Burberry for a series of three distinct looks, a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing sartorial boundaries.
The collection begins with a single-breasted brown wool suit, designed to be worn during the rehearsal dinner, paired with wide-leg trousers. Next, a ceremony suit will take center stage, followed by a classic tuxedo featuring a distinctive shawl lapel for the reception. Burberry’s signature British tailoring is being blended with contemporary details, resulting in a collection that Paul himself calls ‘some of the best damn suits he’ll ever wear.’
Global fittings, personal touches
The operation is a logistical marvel. Burberry’s team has been crisscrossing the globe – from Los Angeles to Miami, New York to London – to ensure perfect fits for Paul, his mother, and his ten groomsmen. Even logistical challenges like accommodating Riley Opelka’s impressive seven-foot frame haven’t deterred them. And it’s not merely about tailoring; Burberry is incorporating subtle details – cufflinks and meticulously stitched linings – throughout the collection, ensuring each piece is a work of art.
From grand slams to gala nights
Paul himself admits he doesn’t routinely don formal wear. “I mean, in tennis, we sometimes have galas or events that we have to go to,” he explained. “We dress up a little bit, but this will be a whole different level.” The decision to embrace a double-breasted suit – a style he rarely wears – speaks volumes about the significance of this particular occasion.
Beyond the fabric: a personal reflection
The meticulous planning, however, isn’t solely about aesthetics. Paul reflected on the journey that brought him to this point, acknowledging the smaller moments – the early coaching, the unwavering support – that shaped his career. “It’s in these bigger moments that Paul reflects on the smaller ones, and everything else that gotten him to where he is today.”
Wedding priorities & tennis strategy
Early on, Paige, Paul’s fiancée, prioritized an oyster bar – a non-negotiable request. But beyond the lavish details, the couple has agreed on a black-tie dress code, envisioning a celebration filled with impeccably dressed guests. Interestingly, Paul confessed that proposing to Paige was a more nerve-wracking experience than facing a Grand Slam opponent. “I only get to do that once, you know? I can’t mess it up. I can mess up in a Grand Slam, and I’ll have another chance.”
Investing in the game
Paul’s earlier career benefited from financial backing from the USTA, alongside experienced coaching. However, he eventually realized the importance of taking ownership, investing in his own development. “I started going through the motions a little bit,” he admitted. “I think that once I started investing in my career and paying for my coaches, paying for my training, I didn’t want to waste a day.”
The ambitious athlete
He advises aspiring athletes to cultivate a game-day mentality: “When I’m down like that, I like to tell myself that I can beat anybody. I like to tell myself how good of a player I can be and how good of a player I am.” Focus, visualization, and quiet confidence are key – a strategy honed over years of competitive pressure.
A statement in style
Ultimately, Paul’s wedding look represents more than just a sartorial choice; it’s a celebration of personal growth, a testament to the power of partnership, and a bold declaration of style. It’s a gamble, perhaps, but one that’s likely to pay off handsomely – and look damn good while doing it.