Roger Federer shows off NEW UNIQLO gear as Wimbledon star confirms Nike snub
ROGER FEDERER confirmed his split from Nike by sporting a UNIQLO outfit at Wimbledon today - although he seems to have retained his footwear deal.
Wimbledon: Federer wears Uniqlo as he returns to centre court
Federer's contract with Nike expired in March and there was intense speculation that he would not renew his sponsorship deal with the sportswear giant.
And it had remained unclear what brand the 36-year-old would be wearing at Wimbledon this year, until he made his first appearance of the tournament on Monday.
The outfit, which fits with Wimbledon's strict clothing policy that stipulates all-white clothing and minimal branding, was designed by UNIQLO artistic director Christophe Lemaire.
“I am deeply committed to tennis and to winning championships,” Federer said in a statement released seconds after he walked on court for his first-round clash with Dusan Lajovic.
“But like UNIQLO, I also have a great love for life, culture and humanity.
“We share a strong passion to have a positive impact on the world around us and looking forward to combining our creative endeavours."
Tadashi Yanai, UNIQLO founder and chairman, said: "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.
“UNIQLO will help Mr Federer continue taking tennis to new places, while exploring innovations in a number of areas including technology and design with him."
But when quizzed at the Halle Open last month, the Swiss refused to answer questions on the subject.
“Naturally there are a lot of talks going on and there is nothing really I have to add to it,” Federer said.
“And when the time is right and there is something to say I will.
“But until then I won’t really enjoy talking this conversation to be honest.
“Not that there is a problem but it is just one of these situations you wished it was resolved already a long time ago.”
Roger Federer - what did star say after Wimbledon win?
Federer on his UNIQLO deal...
Federer on playing in front of his children...
"The RF logo is with Nike at the moment, but it will come to me at some point. I hope rather sooner than later, that Nike can be nice and helpful in the process to bring it over to me. It's also something that was very important for me, for the fans really.