BBC presenter Clare Balding briefly lost her composure during live coverage of Wimbledon after Novak Djokovic emerged for his opening match wearing a pristine, commemorative blazer. The seven-time Wimbledon champion, competing in his 21st campaign at the All England Club, sported a crisp white blazer with a sharp black trim around the lapel, a style inspired by Roger Federer.
Balding's Reaction to Djokovic's Outfit
As Djokovic and his opponent, Chinese star Wu Yubing, waited to be called onto Centre Court, Balding noticed the outfit and immediately expressed her admiration. She said: “Oooh, look at that! Look at the blazer. That’s new for this year. Very smart. But you can see how much already Djokovic is enjoying this. And he still, maybe it’s the blazer and the schoolboy look, but he still looks very youthful doesn’t he?”
Djokovic's Custom Lacoste Blazer
Djokovic's blazer is understood to be a custom fit made by his long-term sponsor Lacoste, with whom he has been a global brand ambassador since May 2017. The Serbian star appeared to relish his outfit as he prepared to begin his campaign for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
Historic Context and Grand Slam Record Chase
In her introduction, Balding highlighted the significance of the moment: “It is 21 years since Novak Djokovic made his debut here at Wimbledon and yet, here he is, and he’s one of the main contenders to win the title. He is about to start his campaign in that beautiful blazer which clearly has been specially designed for this year. Bear in mind the history that he is aiming for, trying to become the first person, male or female, to win 25 Grand Slam titles. He already has 24, he’s level with Margaret Court. Could he also win an eighth singles title here at Wimbledon.”
Djokovic is one of the main favourites to lift the title at Wimbledon, especially with Carlos Alcaraz absent. A victory at SW19 would also make him the joint most successful player in Grand Slam history alongside Roger Federer, who won eight titles in 12 appearances at the championship.
