For the past five decades, I have refrained from donning traditional tennis attire. However, in a surprising turn of events, I have found myself captivated by the current tennis fashion movement, commonly known as tenniscore. Despite tennis being my sole sport, I have never possessed the standard white ensemble until a splendid white (or ecru, to be precise) tennis ‘skort’ landed on my doorstep. I nearly added a V-neck white sweater with navy trim to my purchase, but managed to exert some self-control. Now, I simply need to make my way to the court for the first time this year and resist the temptation to partake in additional shopping sprees.
Admittedly, I do not quite embody the elegance of Zendaya, the female protagonist of Luca Guadagnino’s latest film “Challengers,” in her gorgeous tennis dresses. However, the male leads, Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist, exude a whole new level of allure, with a distinct air of masculine sensuality. Guadagnino’s artistic direction has undeniably elevated the game in terms of male racquet candy. Who would have thought that oversized tennis kit bags could be carried with such effortless swagger? And that a gradual build-up to a serve could exude such appeal?
Beyond the stylish wardrobe, “Challengers” also features a remarkable electronic music soundtrack that perfectly aligns with my latest fixation: the new Pet Shop Boys album “Nonetheless.” This concise ten-song gem stands resolute on its own, as evidenced by Neil Tennant’s recent remarks on Taylor Swift’s chart-topping singles. While I wasn’t particularly fond of the Pet Shop Boys during their 1980s peak, their deep dive into nostalgia with lyrics referencing KGB boys, Roxy and Bowie, and the intriguing Les Petites Bon-Bons, has now become oddly comforting.
As a newly appointed trustee of the Wallace Collection, I always take the opportunity to extol the virtues of this exceptional London treasure trove adorned with exquisite works of art. Recently, I recommended the current Wallace exhibition on Ranjit Singh, the Sikh warrior king, to an acquaintance curating an exhibition of Indian art from the Kew archives. The Wallace Collection never ceases to impress with its formidable jewelled daggers and exquisite Indian miniatures.
On the topic of London, I recently observed a plethora of Minis on the city’s roads, which came as quite a surprise considering I opted for a sleek black Mini Cooper under the assumption that it would be a distinctive choice amidst a sea of Priuses, VW Golfs, and Subaru SUVs. It turns out, Minis are now as common as bindweed, as I realized when I spent several minutes attempting to unlock a black Mini, only to discover it was one of three identical ones parked in a row.
Shifting the focus, the London mayoral election has sparked debates on road usage, a subject that appears lacking in compelling candidates. Even Sadiq Khan, once a personal favourite of mine, is facing scrutiny over the alterations to London’s roadways. While I initially admired his ideas and humility, recent actions such as the Low Traffic Neighbourhood signage have caused a change of heart.
Overall, the convergence of sports, fashion, art, and politics in London continues to provide unexpected twists and turns, promising a vibrant and eventful season ahead.