"I loved what Serena Williams, Sharapova & Ivanovic wore" - Destanee Aiava calls today's tennis fashion 'ugly' after going viral at Australian Open

Destanee Aiava didn’t hold back her thoughts on tennis fashion, boldly labeling today’s trends as "ugly." She referenced style icons like Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Ana Ivanovic to support her claim, praising their fashion sense.

Aiava has created quite a stir at the 2025 Australian Open, capturing attention like no other player so far. For the first time in her career, she has advanced to the second round of a Grand Slam.

In an interview with the BBC ahead of the Melbourne Major, the Aussie shared her admiration for these iconic tennis legends. She spoke about her desire to stand out with her attire, saying she avoids wearing what everyone else does.

"I just loved what they wore,” the 24-year-old said.

"I think some of the stuff that is being designed is quite ugly. I just like to wear what I think looks good. I don't like wearing the same thing as everyone else,” she added.

The Aussie has been turning heads with her bold and stylish fashion choices. From qualifying for the main draw of the year’s first Major, she sported Sharapova’s iconic 2012 US Open dress, Ivanovic’s 2010 outfit, and Wozniacki’s 2013 attire. She bought all these replicas from eBay, Facebook, and Depop.

“I didn’t really think it would make any impact at all, me wearing the dresses. But I’m glad I did,” Aiava continued. “It’s been fun bringing them back. I think even if you lose, it’s still kind of a fashion runway when you're on the court.”

Destanee Aiava wants to pursue a degree in fashion

Destanee Aiava pictured at the 2025 Australian Open | Image Source: Getty

Destanee Aiava’s love for tennis extends to fashion, as she revealed her aspiration to pursue a degree in the field during her BBC interview.

For now, though, her immediate goal is to secure a sponsorship deal with a sportswear brand. However, she admitted her concern about potentially having to wear the same outfits as others if that happens.

"I am hoping to get a sponsor. I'll probably have to put up with wearing the same thing as other people. But, for now, I'm loving picking whatever I want to wear and buying whatever I want," she said.

Aiava faces a major challenge at the Australian Open as she takes on former finalist Danielle Collins in the second round on Thursday, January 16. The Aussie earned her spot with a hard-fought 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(5) win over Greet Minnen.