Lorenzo Musetti states that looking good truly enhances your performance.

Lorenzo Musetti states that looking good truly enhances your performance.

      In today's world, sports extend beyond the actions that take place on the court, field, or track. A significant amount of excitement surrounding athletes occurs prior to their events—specifically, when they arrive at their venues and display their latest fashion statements. In basketball, this is known as a tunnel 'fit; in Formula One, it's a paddock 'fit; and so on. What athletes choose to wear off the field is important, particularly for fans who may never have the chance to interact with their idols. Clothing serves as an effective means of communication—a glimpse into the personality and values of your favorite athlete. This is the essence of Go Sports. Yes, we focus on statistics, the results of Free Practice 1 (even if it’s at 3 a.m.), and intense rivalries like those seen in RHOSLC, but today, we also recognize the significance of sports fashion. We are proud to admit it.

      The US Open has officially kicked off, bringing with it a mix of excitement, chaos, and style to the tennis scene (and to New York City). We were fortunate enough to grab five minutes with Italian star Lorenzo Musetti right before the tournament truly began. As an ambassador for both ASICS and Bottega Veneta, Musetti is quickly winning over fans, and despite a challenging season filled with injuries that sidelined him from two major grand slams in 2026, his recent performance in Cincinnati has improved his prospects. Additionally, after reaching the quarterfinals at last year’s US Open, it's clear that he thrives on the hard courts at Arthur Ashe, which seem to respond in kind to him.

      Before his first-round match against Arthur Fery on September 1, Musetti shared his thoughts on the unique energy he experiences when he steps onto the New York court—especially during evening matches. He also discussed the positive influence of feeling good in what you wear on his performance and mentioned the tennis legend he's always admired, both for his skills on the court and style off it.

      (Images: Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

      Could you share what the US Open means to you? Why is it such a special tournament? This year is particularly significant for me since I missed two Grand Slams, making this my last chance to excel in a Grand Slam. New York has always been good to me. Even during tough times, the city's energy has always lifted me up. I'm really excited to be back here and to start playing.

      As a spectator, there's nothing quite like watching a night match at the US Open. From a player's perspective, how does a night match differ from daytime matches? The intensity definitely escalates during a night match, especially at [Arthur] Ashe in front of a crowd of over 20,000. I had the opportunity to play a match like that last year, and it was incredibly emotional for me. It was one of the most beautiful settings I've had the chance to play in. Plus, the conditions change from day to night; at night, it can be more humid, making the balls feel a bit tougher and slower. It’s a distinct experience.

      (Images: Getty Images)

      How does wearing the ASICS Night Energy collection enhance that experience? I feel that when you are comfortable in your outfit, you carry yourself with more confidence on the court. That’s just my personal feeling. Last year, wearing the black outfit during a night session was fantastic. I'm hoping to have the chance to play at night again this year. The outfit looks great, and you can draw energy from it.

      Moving on to the concept of looking good, feeling good, and playing good that many athletes either wholeheartedly agree with or completely dismiss. What’s your take on this, and how do you believe an outfit influences your performance? I absolutely agree. When you feel happy in your clothing and comfortable in your skin, you're more likely to feel confident during your game. It provides an advantage. Conversely, if you're uncomfortable with what you're wearing or physically uneasy, it decreases your chances of winning the match.

      (Images: Darren Carroll/USTA via Getty Images)

      Are there any tennis players whose playing styles you've admired throughout your career for their off-court fashion as well? [Roger] Federer has always been my idol, not only because of his elegance but also because he plays a one-handed backhand, just like I do. I've always tried to emulate him a bit. Of course, I’m not nearly as skilled as he is, but I recently had the chance to hit with him, which was an incredible experience for me—a moment with my childhood hero.

Lorenzo Musetti states that looking good truly enhances your performance. Lorenzo Musetti states that looking good truly enhances your performance. Lorenzo Musetti states that looking good truly enhances your performance.

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Lorenzo Musetti states that looking good truly enhances your performance.

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