Announced earlier this week, World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has signed a clothing deal with Japanese retailer UNIQLO. Djokovic was in the early stages of a 10-year contract with Sergio Tecchini, but after that relationship soured UNIQLO, which also sponsors Kei Nishikori, stepped in making the Serb their global brand ambassador for the next five years.

“I am honored, and also very excited, to have been appointed as the UNIQLO global brand ambassador,” Djokovic said. “UNIQLO is a cool brand with strong roots in Japan, a country whose culture and way of life I respect. I have a personal philosophy which I call ‘Be Unique,’ and this is based on my strong passion, drive and eagerness to keep improving myself. I am passionate about being the best possible tennis player, as well as the best possible person, and I have a continuous desire to help people, especially children, who have been less fortunate than I.”

As part of the launch, UNIQLO will sale a custom UT (UNIQLO T-Shirt) in select stores with proceeds donated to the Novak Djokovic Foundation to support children’s programs. UNIQLO has over 1,100 stores worldwide.

Tadashi Yanai, Chairman, President & CEO of leading global Japanese retailer Fast Retailing, commented on yesterday’s announcement saying, “We are extremely pleased to have Novak Djokovic become UNIQLO’s global brand ambassador. We will use the most innovative fabrics and technologies to develop match wear that can contribute to the performance of a globally recognized and respected sports person like Novak. At the same time, UNIQLO will incorporate latest fabrics and technologies to co-develop with him the ultimate functional apparel that can be worn, and enjoyed, by people all over the world.”

Filed under: 2012 Season
Tags: Novak Djokovic, UNIQLO