BLAKE AND KIM AT THE FILA’S LAUNCH OF THOMAS REYNOLDS COLLECTION, NEW YORK
By MTF Contributor Nistha Tripathi
With US Open imminent, New York is the place to be in. Gushing with star studded parties, who’s who in tennis fraternity and fashionable vistas, the magnificent skyline of Manhattan is starrier than ever. After Nike’s launch on Wednesday, Fila captured the Big Apple with launch of Thomas Reynolds collection. If ‘Thomas Reynolds, who?’ is your reaction, let me help you. While Roger Federer likes to have his initials earmarking every piece of his attire, Fila’s collection is deriving its name from not the player himself but his father – James Blake’s father. That’s the way Blake would like to pay tribute to his father who succumbed to cancer in 2004.
Blake's Thomas Reynolds Collection - FILA
In traditional white, shades of blue, pinstripes, reversible collar and classic polo design, the line is in contrast to the catchier colors used by Nike for Federer, Rafa and Serena. The collection is going on a limited release at this time with full launch planned through Summer 2010. Blake in collaboration with Fila, Lord and Taylor, and Tennis magazine launched the collection in midtown on 27th Aug. After the casual autograph signing session, the private party hit the 11th floor terrace of Lord and Taylor’s with DJ Sky Nellor rocking the night. The guests were in for a surprise as another Fila star Kim Clijsters joined for a cameo.
Blake and Kim - FILA
As my curiosity got the better of me, I had to ask James how much had he contributed to the design per se. “Oh I was completely involved”, James replied, “From the colors to the logo and design [I was there]“. No surprises there as the shades of blue are in accordance with Blake’s love of North Carolina collegiate basketball team. Having defeated Federer in Olympics last year, featured 22nd on New York Times bestseller for his comeback book, and appeared in People Magazine’s Sexiest Men Alive issue, Blake has witnessed popularity and love of tennis fans world wide from very close. As he enters into the US Open with not a very successful season record, we wish James the best for everything!
James Blake talking about TR collection
MyTennisFashion also got to have an exclusive word with former World No. 1 and US Open champion Kim Clijsters. On the issue of WTA having consistent inconsistencies in ranking and floundering of all major women players, Kim shrugged off the issue. “I think the girls are playing great. There are different winners because everyone is able to challenge more. The way Venus Williams and Serena Williams aren’t able to keep it consistent either, they crash out in round 1 and 2 at times. That just shows there is more depth in WTA now. I think it’s just more competition, everyone is hitting the ball pretty hard.”, she opined. As I asked her views on future of Belgian tennis, she said, “You know there’s Wickmayer, ranked in 50s and Kirsten in near 100s who has been troubled with right arm injury. So, there is talent but I’ve not followed it lately since I am focusing more on my game right now”. I am sure the fans are longing for someone in WTA who is trying to focus on the game too.
Kim Clijsters at TR launch event
Tags: Fila, James Blake, Kim Clijisters, Nistha Tripathi, Thomas Reynolds, U.S Open 2009
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