Frances Tiafoe made a statement at the 2024 Mubadala Citi DC Open. His yellow and red Lululemon outfit honored the Washington Commanders and grabbed attention on and off the court.
While fans loved the tribute, his friend Taylor Townsend couldn’t resist a joke. “She was clowning my outfit, calling me Ronald McDonald earlier today,” Tiafoe said after defeating 2024 finalist Flavio Cobolli in straight sets. “I wasn’t messing with that at all.”
Townsend, world No. 2 in doubles, is also having a great week in singles. She beat 2020 Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin to reach the quarterfinals. Tiafoe praised her performance but admitted the roast stuck with him. “I didn’t think that was funny earlier. I’m going to have to knock her,” he said with a smile. “It be your own people, man. That’s the thing. It be your own people!”
A DMV Star Repping His Roots
Tiafoe, born and raised in Maryland, has always drawn support at the DC Open. Last year, he reached the tournament’s semifinals. His Commanders-themed outfit reflects his growing bond with Lululemon.
“I’m pretty involved,” Tiafoe said about his courtwear choices. “I’m wearing a great brand. Their blue sky is anything I want to do… They knew what does it mean to be here in D.C. and how much I’m here enjoying it. I love Lululemon. It’s a great brand. I’m happy with the partnership. Can’t wait to see what we do down the line.”
The brand also works with WTA star Leylah Fernandez, but Tiafoe is clearly using the platform to express hometown pride.
On the Commanders and Their Future
The Commanders face pressure to change their name as they pursue a new stadium. Tiafoe stayed neutral on the topic but voiced hope for the city’s future.
“I think it would be great for the city,” Tiafoe said. “And I’m from Maryland. But the stadium is old, man. We need new life, and I think Jayden [Daniels] did an incredible job of giving them new life. I think the city, it being in D.C., would help the city a ton.”
All-American Clash With Shelton Ahead
Tiafoe now faces No. 4 seed and doubles partner Ben Shelton in the quarterfinals. Despite the American match-up, Tiafoe expects to have the crowd’s full support. “I mean, they’ll be cheering for him, but let’s pump the brakes. I think a lot of the crowd will still be for me. Obviously, he will get a lot of support, no question, but the crowd will definitely be going my way. I’m not too worried about that.”
As for Shelton’s opinion on Tiafoe’s bold look? That remains to be seen.
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