Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – On the courts of the Copa Cap Cana tournament, Italian tennis player Mattia Bellucci isn’t just competing for a title; he’s making a statement. The 24-year-old’s on-court style is a deliberate throwback to the 1990s, drawing direct inspiration from the iconic glance of Andre Agassi. Bellucci’s distinctive fashion choices are turning heads and sparking conversations within the sport, blending performance with a nostalgic aesthetic.
Bellucci, currently ranked world number 94, has quickly become known for his retro-inspired outfits, including a recent white and yellow collared shirt reminiscent of 90s designs. He pairs this with a bandana – a rare sight in modern tennis – and ties back his long hair with an elastic. This commitment to a vintage aesthetic isn’t accidental; it’s a conscious choice rooted in admiration for a bygone era of tennis fashion. His breakout performance came at the 2025 ATP 500 in Rotterdam, where he reached the semi-finals, and his look has remained a signature since.
“The inspiration comes from vintage tennis. I really like how Andre Agassi dressed. He is my biggest influence,” Bellucci explained, highlighting Agassi’s impact on his personal style. He also cites Pete Sampras and Jim Courier as influences, appreciating the overall aesthetic of that generation of players. “Also some outfits by Roger Federer are memorable. I remember the all-black outfit at the US Open. It was one of my favorites,” he added.
A Style Rooted in Childhood Memories
The bandana, in particular, holds a special significance for Bellucci. “I remember when I was a kid I used to wear a bandana, so it comes from my childhood,” he shared. While he previously sported sunglasses on the court, he’s since opted to leave those behind. This personal connection to his style choices underscores the authenticity of his retro look.
Beyond his aesthetic, Bellucci is also making waves with his performance. At the Copa Cap Cana tournament, he has demonstrated “the best of his aggressive tennis,” according to reports, defeating Francesco Maestrelli, Hubert Hurkacz, and Raphael Collignon to reach the semifinals of the tournament’s second edition. This success on the court complements his distinctive style, solidifying his presence as a rising star in the tennis world.
Partnership with CP Company
Bellucci’s commitment to style hasn’t gone unnoticed by the fashion world. He recently signed with Italian luxury sportswear brand CP Company, founded in 1971 by designer Massimo Osti. “I think it’s very stylish. I like dressing like that on the court. I perceive stronger, more confident,” Bellucci said of the partnership. He emphasized that performance remains his priority, but that CP Company provides quality clothing that enhances his confidence. “CP Company helps me with quality clothing; we are trying to believe in each other, and I help them by telling them what I like to wear on the court.”
A Growing Canvas: Bellucci’s Tattoo Journey
Away from the court, Bellucci is also expressing himself through another art form: tattooing. He is currently undergoing a lengthy process to cover his arms and part of his chest with a large, traditional Japanese-style tattoo. “It’s a single Japanese-style tattoo. It’s in progress, I have to finish it,” he revealed, showcasing the design during his time in the Dominican Republic.
Mattia Bellucci’s unique blend of retro style, strong performance, and artistic expression is quickly establishing him as a compelling figure in professional tennis. As he continues to compete and refine his game, his influence on and off the court is likely to grow. Fans will be watching to see how his distinctive style evolves and what further successes he achieves in the coming seasons.
What do you think of Bellucci’s throwback style? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
