Fred Perry
Fred Perry Serves Up New Davis Cup Partnership
Fred Perry becomes official apparel partner of the Davis Cup, dressing ball kids and officials from 2026 and reviving its tennis heritage on court.
Fred Perry Returns to the Davis Cup Stage
British fashion label Fred Perry has been announced as the global apparel partner of the Davis Cup by Generali, marking a significant return to the competition where its namesake once excelled. The multi-year agreement will see Fred Perry outfit ball kids and officials at the Davis Cup Final 8 from 2026, and at all qualifier ties from 2027. The deal was unveiled by World Tennis, the governing body formerly known as the ITF, and brings the brand’s iconic laurel wreath logo back to the professional tennis courts.
A Legacy Rooted in Tennis History
Fred Perry, the man, was a tennis legend. Between 1933 and 1936, he won four consecutive Davis Cup titles with Great Britain and still holds the British record for most wins in the competition, with 45 victories. His on-court success laid the foundation for the brand he founded in 1952, which has since become a symbol of British style and sporting heritage.
Ross Hutchins, chief executive officer of World Tennis, spoke of the opportunity to celebrate Perry’s legacy: “Fred Perry’s connection to the Davis Cup is part of tennis history, and we are delighted to welcome the brand back to the competition.” The partnership is not just about apparel; it is about honouring a shared history and inspiring future generations.
Shared Values of Tradition and Pride
Richard Gilmore, managing director of Fred Perry, highlighted the alignment between the brand and the competition: “The Davis Cup and Fred Perry share values of tradition, national pride and style. We are proud to be part of this iconic event.” These values resonate strongly with tennis fans around the world, who associate the Davis Cup with intense national pride and a rich heritage.
As the brand approaches its 75th anniversary in 2027, it will celebrate under the creative theme ‘Fred Perry Retold’. This milestone will likely feature events and collections that revisit the brand’s storied past while looking to the future. The Davis Cup partnership is a fitting part of that narrative, placing Fred Perry at the heart of a competition that embodies the spirit of tennis.
What This Means for the Davis Cup
The Davis Cup by Generali Final 8 in 2026 will take place from 24 to 29 November in Bologna, Italy. The host nation, Italy, will be aiming for a fourth consecutive title, having won the last three editions. They will face stiff competition from Czechia, Canada, the Republic of Korea, Great Britain, Germany, Austria and Spain. With Fred Perry providing apparel for officials and ball kids, the tournament will benefit from a touch of classic British style, further enhancing its prestige.
For tennis fans, seeing the laurel wreath on court will evoke memories of Fred Perry’s own triumphs. The brand’s return to the Davis Cup is a reminder of the deep connections between sport and fashion, and how a well-designed piece of clothing can become part of a sport’s identity.
A Partnership with Purpose
This collaboration is more than a sponsorship; it is a celebration of tennis heritage. By dressing the ball kids and officials, Fred Perry will be visible at every match, from qualifiers to the final. The multi-year agreement ensures that the brand’s presence will be felt for seasons to come, reinforcing its commitment to the sport that made its founder a household name.
In a world where sports sponsorship often focuses on the biggest stars, this partnership shines a light on the unsung heroes of the court: the ball kids who chase every shot and the officials who ensure fair play. Fred Perry’s involvement adds a layer of class and tradition to their roles, making them part of the legacy.
As the tennis world looks ahead to 2026 and 2027, the return of Fred Perry to the Davis Cup is a story of heritage, style and national pride. It is a partnership that honours the past while serving the future, much like the brand itself.