In a memorable edition of the French Open, tennis star Camila Giorgi found herself at the center of a wardrobe controversy that nearly overshadowed her performance on the court. Known for pushing the boundaries with her fashion choices, Giorgi faced a significant challenge during her third-round match against Aryna Sabalenka in 2022.
As Giorgi, 32, stepped onto the court at Roland Garros, she was immediately pulled aside by the umpire. The issue? A logo sponsorship for kitchenware manufacturer DeLonghi emblazoned on her dress. This seemingly minor detail clashed with the tournament’s stringent dress code guidelines. “I don’t have any change, this is my only dress. I played with it before,” Giorgi was heard telling the official. Despite her protests, the officials were unyielding.
In an unexpected turn of events, Giorgi was allowed to proceed with the match, which turned out to be one of the most significant victories of her career. Despite the initial distraction, she made a stunning comeback to defeat Sabalenka 4-6, 6-1, 6-0. This match, however, was not without its drama, as the controversial DeLonghi logo remained a point of contention.
Giorgi’s triumph was short-lived, as she was eliminated in the next round by Daria Kasatkina in straight sets. Notably, the DeLonghi logo was absent during this match, perhaps marking the end of her brief flirtation with controversy. Nonetheless, her performance against Sabalenka stood out as a highlight of her career at Roland Garros.
In May 2023, Giorgi announced her retirement from tennis, choosing to pursue a career in modeling and fashion. She has since garnered attention with her bold and provocative photoshoots, maintaining her presence in the public eye. At Wimbledon 2023, she once again turned heads with an unconventional outfit featuring white lace sleeves, showcasing her flair for fashion within the confines of the dress code.
Giorgi’s run to the fourth round in Paris marked a career-best performance at the French Open, with her 2018 Wimbledon quarter-finals appearance being her only superior finish at a Grand Slam. Her victory over Sabalenka, achieved amid unexpected controversy, remains a testament to her resilience and skill on the court.
Camila Giorgi’s legacy in tennis is now intertwined with her unique sense of style and the controversies it sparked. As she transitions to a new chapter in her life, her impact on the sport and the fashion world continues to captivate fans and followers alike. The story of her 2022 French Open journey remains a compelling narrative of determination, controversy, and triumph.