Jordan Thompson, the Australian tennis star currently ranked World No. 27, embodies a unique blend of athleticism, style, and loyalty, deeply rooted in his affinity for running and his enduring partnership with New Balance. His journey with the brand, spanning over a decade, makes him the longest-tenured tennis athlete on their roster, a testament to a mutually beneficial relationship built on shared values and a genuine connection.
Thompson’s stylistic preferences, both on and off the court, are heavily influenced by his background in cross-country running. He favors the streamlined aesthetic of running attire, often sporting ankle socks, lightly laced running shoes, and shorter shorts. This preference extends to his signature backward-worn hat, a look he finds both comfortable and representative of his running persona. He embodies a relaxed and approachable image, often seen traversing the Australian Open grounds in his New Balance gear, looking more like a runner than a tennis player, highlighting his genuine connection to the sport and the brand.
His on-court apparel choices prioritize function and comfort. While not particular about color schemes, he prefers tight-fitting tops to minimize sweat accumulation and weight, and short shorts for freedom of movement. He recalls some of his favorite kits over the years, including a colorful ensemble from the 2017 U.S. Open and a particularly memorable shirt from the 2018 Roland Garros, a photo of which adorns his wall at home. His collaboration with New Balance extends beyond mere endorsements; he provides valuable feedback on their products, particularly the Fresh Foam CT Rally tennis shoe, contributing to its ongoing development and improvement, a clear indication of the brand’s commitment to its athletes.
Thompson’s long-standing relationship with New Balance is grounded in his initial attraction to the brand’s reputation in the running world. In 2014, he became one of the first tennis players to join their roster, drawn by their expertise in running shoes and his hope that they would translate that expertise to the tennis court. He believes they have not only met but exceeded his expectations, consistently improving their tennis apparel and footwear over the years. He proudly proclaims them “the best,” noting the significant advancements made since their partnership began. This sentiment speaks volumes about the brand’s dedication to innovation and its responsiveness to athlete feedback.
The tight-knit nature of the New Balance tennis roster fosters a sense of camaraderie among its athletes. Thompson recalls anecdotes about fellow New Balance athlete Tommy Paul, highlighting their mutual support and shared experiences. He describes a time when Paul generously offered him access to his locker after Thompson forgot his clothes for a photo shoot, exemplifying the strong bonds within the small but closely connected group. This sense of community underscores the brand’s focus on fostering genuine relationships and a supportive environment for its athletes.
New Balance acknowledges the significance of their long-term partnership with Thompson, viewing it as a cornerstone of their tennis marketing strategy. Evan Zeder, the brand’s director of global sports marketing for tennis, emphasizes Thompson’s easy-going nature, his connection with Australian fans, and his recent career high ranking as key factors in their decision to renew his contract. He points to the authenticity of the relationship as a source of excitement and a testament to the enduring value of long-term partnerships. This renewed commitment underscores the brand’s belief in Thompson’s potential and its dedication to supporting his continued growth within the sport.
Beyond his performance on the court, Thompson’s personal style reflects his enduring love for New Balance. He is an avid collector of their lifestyle sneakers, particularly the 550 and the 480 models. He appreciates the versatility of the plain white 480s, their ability to complement any outfit, especially his signature backward-worn yellow hat. His growing collection of 550s, inspired by a recent T-shirt purchase featuring the shoe’s diverse colorways, further demonstrates his genuine appreciation for the brand’s offerings, extending beyond his professional relationship and into his personal life. This genuine affection for the brand reinforces the authenticity of his partnership and his role as a true ambassador for New Balance.
