The surprising reason we call it a ‘tennis bracelet’ (and it’s not what you think)

The tennis bracelet earned its name during the 1987 US Open, when Chris Evert paused mid-match after her diamond bracelet’s clasp gave way and it slipped off her wrist. Jewellers adopted the nickname, and the once-formal eternity bracelet took on a fresher, sportier edge.

Credit: Frances Mocnik

Zoe Olivia “Classic Cubic Zirconia Tennis Bracelet” set in polished, gold-tone stainless steel, $79.

Thomas Sabo “Tennis Bracelet” with round-cut black zirconia stones, crafted in blackened 925 silver, $189.

Fred “FORCE 10” bracelet with 65 brilliant-cut diamonds, paired with an 18-carat white-gold and diamond buckle, $31,570.

TMC Fine Jewellers “The Signature Tennis Bracelet” in a choice of precious metals with lab-grown diamonds. Made to order, from $2400.

Tiffany Victoria “Tennis Bracelet” with round, brilliant-cut diamonds set in platinum, finished with a clasp of marquise diamonds, $41,000.

Chris Evert on court.Credit: Getty

Pandora “Sparkling Pink Tennis Bracelet” with man-made crystals in sterling silver, $169.

Made to order 18-carat diamond tennis bracelet ($27,380) and 18-carat diamond tennis necklace ($29,800), by Jan Logan, crafted in 18-carat white-gold palladium with premium-cut natural diamonds.

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