Hot Off The Challengers Hype, Tenniscore Hair Is Having A Moment

By Charlie Colville

2 months ago

Game, set, match


The winning serve of the summer? Tenniscore, of course. Sporting season if finally upon us, and tennis is the one to watch on the court, on the runway and in the salon. We ask the hair professionals how to tap into tenniscore with flair.

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What Is Tenniscore Hair?

‘Tenniscore hair complements the tennis-inspired fashion trend,’ explains Jason Crozier, Art Director at Neville Hair & Beauty. ‘Tenniscore itself is a fashion and lifestyle trend inspired by classic tennis attire. It includes elements like preppy aesthetics, blending functionality with style for a clean, athletic look. When it comes to hair, styles are sporty, polished and practical, aligning with the clean, fresh look of tennis culture. Think sleek ponytails, headbands and braids.’

@kristinarodulfo Tenniscore is taking over beauty and I’m HERE FOR IT! 🎾 Bows, braids, and more trends I think we’ll see more of as the sport gains more popularity than ever (thanks in no small part to the tennis-centered @Challengers Movie starring #Zendaya and all the looks she’s been *serving*). I especially loved the white bow + braided ponytail #UrsulaStephen did at the London premiere 💯!! Tenniscore beauty at its finest 😍 . . #tennis #tenniscore #challengers #challengersmovie #tennistok #zendayaedit #zendayastyle #tennisoutfits #tennisfashion #tennisgirl ♬ original sound – Kristina Rodulfo

The trend has exploded this season, largely thanks to Zendaya’s recent sports drama Challengers – and the plethora of high-glam, tennis-inspired red carpet looks. And, with summer and Wimbledon just around the corner, it shows no signs of slowing down. ‘Tenniscore is an extension of the athleisure trend seen on the spring/summer catwalks,’ adds Jason. ‘It’s popular because it merges high fashion with athletic wear, offering a chic and practical look. Celebrities like Zendaya embracing this style have amplified its appeal, making it a must-try trend.’

Can Tenniscore Work For All Hair Textures?

Since tenniscore sits in the broad ‘aesthetic’ camp, rather than the singular ‘hairstyle’ category, it means that the look is incredibly adaptable for all hair types. ‘Tenniscore hair is versatile and can be adapted to all hair textures, from straight to curly and everything in between,’ confirms Jason. ‘It’s all about finding the right style that suits your hair type.’

How To Style Tenniscore Hair

1. Sleek High Ponytail

 

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This take on the tenniscore hair trend makes flyaways a thing of the past, since hair stays cleanly slicked down. When it comes to recreating the look, Jason recommends you, ‘use a strong-hold gel to smooth back your hair into a high ponytail, then secure with an elastic and finish with hairspray for a polished look.’ See more slick back ponytail hairstyle ideas here.

2. Braided Headband

 

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This sports luxe hairstyle looks a lot more intricate than it actually is. ‘A braided headband keeps hair off your face while still looking chic,’ says Jason. ‘Start by creating a French braid on one side of your head, then wrap it around like a headband.’ You can also repeat the same technique on the other side to create a doubled up effect.

​3. ​Low Bun With Headband

 

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This sporty bun brings in an apt accessory: the tennis headband. Jason explains how you can recreate the look: ‘This style is both functional and stylish, perfect for a clean look,’ he says. ‘Simply pull your hair into a low bun and secure it with a headband.’

​4. ​Side Braid

 

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Another tenniscore hair look featuring braids, this one can be worn half up, half down or in a full braid. ‘This style works well with wavy or curly hair and adds a playful touch,’ says Jason. ‘Start braiding from one side and secure with a hair tie.’

​5. ​Half-Up, Half-Down With Ribbon

Perhaps one for the spectators rather than the tennis players, this is more of a casual tenniscore hairstyle. To get the look, Jason advises you, ‘tie the top half of your hair into a ponytail and finish with a ribbon for a feminine, sporty look.’

6. Sleek Braids

 

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You’ll often catch tennis stars on the court with their hair tied up in a braid. We love the look of a multi-layered braid tied up in a high pony – and, if you want a more personalised look, you can incorporate hair accessories like clips and bows to finish it all off.

What Next?

It’s hot right now, but how will tenniscore fare in the future? ‘Tenniscore hair will likely continue to evolve with more creative styles and accessories,’ predicts Jason. ‘We might see more stylish clips, sweatbands, and innovative braid styles. As celebrities like Zendaya continue to embrace and influence this trend, it will keep evolving, blending classic elements with modern twists for versatile, dynamic looks.’

Featured image: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for Warner Bros