Tennis Socials brings style, sport, and community together in Manila
By John Legaspi
For years, Lacoste has been closely associated with the sport of tennis, thanks to René Lacoste, one of the brand’s co-founders. Its iconic polo with the signature crocodile embroidery—an homage to René’s sporting persona—first made its debut on the court as a replacement for traditional tennis attire. Since then, the polo shirt has become a closet essential for athletes mastering the game and for everyday fashion savants looking for timeless, dependable clothing.
With the launch of Tennis Socials in Manila, the brand returns to its roots by putting the spotlight back on the sport. On Nov. 28, 2025, at the Kerry Sports Tennis Court in Shangri-La The Fort, BGC, it marked a new chapter in its community initiative with the first-ever Lacoste Tennis Clinic. The program is designed to elevate the sport locally and reconnect Filipinos with the French lifestyle label’s tennis heritage, while also introducing Le Club Lacoste, a loyalty program that offers members exclusive advantages—from early previews and special gifts to limited-edition products, customization services, and event access.
The launch gathered well-loved personalities and sports enthusiasts, including Catriona Gray, Kylie Verzosa, Khalil Ramos, Patrick Sugui, Patricia Henson, Daniel Peters, Ben Wintle, and Sidney Yap, for a friendly yet spirited tennis match. Guests were guided by professional tennis coaches from Kerry Sports, ensuring an engaging and dynamic experience for both beginners and seasoned players.
Following the tennis clinic, guests were invited to the hotel’s upper deck for an intimate afternoon cocktail session. The initiative drew inspiration from René’s love of bringing people together, merging the sport with a refined social experience.