Andre Agassi’s Iconic Nike Air Tech Challenge 2 “Hot Lava” sneakers set for fall 2024 return

Andre Agassi's iconic Air Tech Challenge II in the "Hot Lava" colorway is once again set to blaze a trail in the sneaker world. The shoes, which were first worn by Agassi in 1990, are set to make a comeback in the fall of 2024 as part of Nike Sportswear’s collection.

The collaboration between Nike and Agassi birthed the Air Tech Challenge II, a line that has remained relevant for more than three decades. Originally introduced in 1990, the "Hot Lava" colorway, with its fiery hues and distinctive design, quickly became a symbol of Agassi’s bold style both on and off the court.

Over the years, the “Hot Lava” Air Tech Challenge II has seen multiple revivals. In 2008, fans witnessed its first comeback, followed by another in 2014, and then two more in quick succession in 2016 and 2019. The American was first seen wearing the sneakers during the 1990 Roland Garros finals match against Andres Gomez.

Moreover, the "Hot Lava" theme's popularity extends beyond Agassi’s signature line. It has inspired other major releases, such as the LeBron 16 in 2019. This year’s edition promises a vintage touch, reminiscent of the 2016 version, combining colors like Phantom, Hot Lava, Black, Silver, and Pale Ivory to create that classic yet refreshing look.

The sneakers will be a Quickstrike release, which means they will only be available at a select number of retailers along with official Nike.com.

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Andre Agassi and wife Steffi Graf to face off against John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova in Pickleball Slam 2

Steffi Graf (L) and Andre Agassi (R)

Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf are gearing up to play together in the upcoming season of the Pickleball Slam, taking on the duo of John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova.

Agassi, with a legacy of eight Grand Slam victories and an Olympic gold, marked his entrance into the world of pickleball in April 2023, pairing up with Andy Roddick to secure a win in the maiden Pickleball Slam.

In that initial Slam, McEnroe bested Agassi with scores of 15-13 and 16-14, while Roddick overcame Michael Chang 15-10 in both sets. The doubles match served as the decider, where Agassi and Roddick narrowly defeated McEnroe and Chang with a scoreline of 21-15, 21-23, and 12-10.

Since that event, the American has been dedicatedly honing his pickleball prowess. He's been training alongside his wife, Graf, often hailed as one of tennis' best female players.

Steffi Graf will be partnering with Andre Agassi for the forthcoming Pickleball Slam on February 4, 2024, which will take place at Florida's Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino. This edition will maintain the original format, hosting four ex-tennis player teams, all competing for the grand prize of $1 million.