Fans of Thanasi Kokkinakis would have noticed his uniform during the Adelaide International where he unfortunately had to withdraw from the quarter-final due to shoulder injury.
He is hoping to be fine for the Australian Open which kicks off this Sunday.
It is there that he also plans to wear said uniform.
His shorts are adorned with a Greek-inspired illustration of a spartan warrior.
Neos Kosmos was able to get some comments from Kokkinakis prior to the injury setback about the shorts he helped design with Cotton On and his hopes for the Australian Open and beyond.
When asked what inspired him to implement his Greek heritage on the shorts, he said it was pride and a way to give back to his Greek supporters.
“I’m very proud of my heritage and couldn’t be more grateful for the Greek community’s support,” he said.
“They’ve always supported me, and it feels like I’m doing something for them with these shorts.
“They (Greek fans) are amazing. They get behind me every match. It’s very special to have their support when I’m playing at home.”
Some could say the shorts are fitting for its wearer, as it translates into a warrior and a tournament on the big stage.
“Well, I do seem to love a 5-set match,” he said when asked if he sees himself as the warrior on the shorts.
“The design of my kit this year is very fitting for sure.
“It was cool to be involved in the design process with the Cotton On team and see this kit come to life.”
The shorts and their matching tees were developed in a palette that combines the signature colours of Australian tennis with the Greek flag – blue and white.
Kokkinakis said the reactions on social media has been “incredible” and that lots of fans have reached out saying how much they love the shorts and asking how they can get a pair.
The plan for the Australian Open is for Kokkinakis to reunite with his good mate Nick Kyrgios for doubles action.
Now with his injury, fans will have to wait and see on his status but he was optimistic.
“If it’s anything like 2022, get ready for some entertainment,” he said.
“It has been a great start to the year here in Adelaide, and I’m looking forward to getting to Melbourne and building for the year ahead.”
