Roger Federer launched his Wimbledon title defense sporting a new look.
The top-seeded Swiss, who had worn Nike clothes and shoes throughout his pro career, walked on Centre Court wearing new white Uniqlo apparel and a matching headband along with his familiar Nike shoes.
Uniqlo announced it signed Federer as global ambassador as he walked on Centre Court. The Japanese brand will reportedly pay Federer $300 million, quadrupling Federer's annual apparel pact with Nike.
Federer was earning about $7.5 million annually with Nike.
Though his Nike deal ended in March, Federer wore the swoosh brand in tune-up tournaments in Stuttgart and Halle and was wearing the brand during his Wimbledon practice week.
Uniqlo is reportedly paying the 36-year-old Federer at least $28 million annually, with some reports stating the deal may be worth as much as $30 million a year.
UNIQLO is honoured to welcome Roger Federer as our new Global Brand Ambassador!
“Mr. Federer is one of the greatest champions in history; my respect for him goes beyond sport. Our partnership will be about innovation on and off court. We share a goal of making positive change in the world, and I hope together we can bring the highest quality of life to the greatest number of people.” — Tadashi Yanai, UNIQLO founder, chairman and CEO
"It's good you know my contract or you have no clue and you're just saying something," Federer told the media with a smile. "Yeah, I'm very happy on both ends, absolutely. I'm happy to be back at Wimbledon. I was really able to enjoy the match out there because I got off to a good start.
"When you get off to a good start in set one and two, you're able to just enjoy the moment more than when you're struggling early on, especially at the tournament like I explained yesterday. There is always pressure and nerves when you go into a first round. Also I was excited to wear Uniqlo today. I must tell you, it's been a long time coming. I felt very good out there. It's also crucial to play well, so it was helpful."
While he's wearing Uniqlo apparel, Federer is still sporting his customized size 12EEE Nike shoes complete with the RF logo on the back.
Federer appeared at his pre-tournament press conference wearing a suit instead of Nike, prompting speculation he would wear a different brand on court today.
Uniqlo also sponsors Kei Nishikori and previously clothed former world No. 1 Novak Djokovic.
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