Lea Pericoli, the Italian tennis star known for her iconic fashion sense on and off the court, has passed away at the age of 89. Pericoli, who reached the last 16 of the French Open twice and the Wimbledon championships three times, was not only a talented athlete but also a style icon.
Born in Milan on March 22, 1935, Pericoli later became a popular television presenter and journalist, but it was her unique and extravagant contest outfits that truly set her apart. From dresses adorned with feathers and fur to outfits designed by British sportswear designer Teddy Tinling, Pericoli’s fashion choices always made a statement.
“She was a bit like the mother to all of us,” said Angelo Binaghi, president of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, reflecting on Pericoli’s impact on the tennis world.
Throughout her career, Pericoli’s style continued to turn heads, whether she was posing in feathered outfits on the court or modeling new tennis wear collections. Her flair for fashion was evident in every aspect of her life, making her a true trailblazer in the world of sports and style.
As we remember the legacy of Lea Pericoli, we celebrate not only her achievements on the tennis court but also her fearless and innovative approach to fashion. She will forever be remembered as a true icon of the sport.
