I Just Found Out Why It’s Called A Tennis Bracelet, And It Is Peak Sports Drama

    Serving looks, literally.

    I always thought the term tennis bracelet was just one of those random names rich people came up with to make things sound fancy. But turns out, there's actual sports drama behind it and it involves a flying diamond, a paused Grand Slam match, and one very iconic wrist.

    Before it ever showed up courtside, this piece of jewellery was known as an eternity bracelet. Back in the 1920s, flapper dresses were everywhere, jazz was blasting through every speakeasy, and these loops of diamonds were all about symbolising never-ending love. Very Great Gatsby, very “pass the champagne”, basically made for cocktail parties, not match points.

    Then came the 1978 US Open. Chris Evert—actual tennis royalty—was mid-match when her diamond bracelet broke right off her wrist and flew onto the court. And get this: she straight-up asked the officials to pause the game so she could find it.

    Tennis player preparing to hit a backhand shot during a match

    Honestly? I would’ve done the exact same thing. If a whole line of diamonds slipped off my wrist in front of a stadium crowd, you'd best believe the match is stopping.

    The moment made headlines, and jewellers didn’t waste a second. With all eyes suddenly on that flying bracelet, they saw a golden (well, diamond) opportunity. They rebranded the eternity bracelet as the tennis bracelet, turning a mid-match mishap into a full-blown marketing moment.

    And the best part? This wasn’t even a one-off. Chris Evert had been wearing dainty bracelets on the court for a while, mixing sweatbands with sparkle like it was the most normal thing ever. I see you, girl.

    The ’70s and ’80s brought in a whole new vibe, one where casual met fancy. Think denim and diamonds. There was a growing want for a bracelet that was dainty but still made people turn and look at your wrist. And honestly, the tennis bracelet fit right in. Affluent women jumped on it because it wasn’t just pretty; it was a status symbol. Not everyone could afford one, and honestly, that was kind of the point. It became the it piece of jewellery of the decade.

    Person carrying a small, elegant clutch bag. They wear a casual outfit with a long, stylish coat, accessorized with a bracelet and ring

    If I’d been around back then, I’d probably be doing the same, standing in front of the mirror, tennis bracelet on my wrist, saying to myself, “No, I don’t play the sport… but I could if I wanted to. Hmm.”

    Fast forward to now, and the tennis bracelet is still having its moment. So much so, that During Zendaya's Challengers press tour, she wore one sleek tennis look after another, and let’s just say: the internet noticed. Searches for tennis bracelets spiked by 133%, all because she served (pun fully intended).

    Person on red carpet in a backless, halter-style dress and long braid, looking over shoulder. Crowd and event signs in background

    You’ve seen them everywhere: on red carpets, in movies, and casually glinting on Centre Court. The tennis bracelet has had its moment on Serena Williams’ wrist, on Leonardo DiCaprio’s on-screen wife in The Wolf of Wall Street, and yes, probably somewhere on your dream Pinterest board too. But who knew all that sparkle came with a backhand?

    Two women at an event; one raises her fist and smiles. They wear stylish outfits and sunglasses

    These days, the classic row of diamonds is still going strong, usually set in gold or platinum, and always with a clasp that won’t quit (thanks, Chris Evert). But now you’ll find them with colourful stones, funky shapes, and updated designs that feel less old-school luxury and more like… your vibe, just shinier.

    Person in stylish white dress and sunglasses applauding at an event; background shows casually dressed crowd

    And honestly? Every time I see one now, I can’t help but think of that match, those flying diamonds, and Chris Evert just casually changing jewellery history mid-point.

    I want one even more now.