# Why did Maria Sharapova wear a thong during her tennis matches?

Paige Thornton · August 4, 2026

> Maria Sharapova, a professional tennis player, often opted for specific athletic wear to ensure comfort and performance on the court. Thongs have been...

Maria Sharapova, a professional tennis player, often opted for specific athletic wear to ensure comfort and performance on the court.

Thongs have been mentioned in discussions about athletes' attire, as they can minimize visible panty lines under sleek sports shorts.

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Athletes sometimes choose thong styles because they provide a greater range of movement and reduced fabric bunching, which can be crucial during high-intensity matches.

The materials used in sportswear, like those Sharapova favored, often include moisture-wicking fabrics that help to keep sweat away from the skin, enhancing comfort while maintaining performance levels.

The psychological aspect of clothing choice is also significant; wearing specific items, like a favorite thong, can make athletes feel more empowered and confident, potentially improving their focus and performance.

The concept of "athleisure" promotes the idea of fashionable athletic wear that can be worn both on and off the court.

This trend has led to athletic clothing being designed with aesthetics in mind, influencing athletes like Sharapova.

Sharapova's career has spanned over a decade, and her fitness routine likely influenced her clothing choices.

The right fit helps in maintaining performance, as comfort allows for a focus on technique rather than distractions from inappropriate gear.

The design of sports underwear, especially for women, often takes into account the dynamics of movement.

This includes flexibility, breathability, and support, which can lead to selections like thongs designed specifically for athletic use.

Unlike traditional underwear, thongs can reduce friction between the body and athletic wear.

This is particularly useful in sports where movement can be extensive, such as tennis.

The biomechanical demands of tennis, which involve rapid lateral movements and quick direction changes, require garments that do not shift or move unexpectedly, aligning with the reasons some athletes choose minimalistic designs.

The popularity of thongs in sportswear correlates with increased female participation in athletic fields.

As women become more visible in sports, the discussion around athletic attire has shifted toward personal expression and comfort.

Psychological studies indicate that the type of clothing an athlete wears can impact their mindset and approach to competition, with some suggesting that specific garments can create a "performance mindset" that enhances athletic output.

Female athletes have reported that wearing specific styles of underwear, including thongs, can help them feel less constricted and more at ease during matches, allowing them to concentrate solely on their performance.

The evolution of sportswear technology has also contributed to the acceptance and popularity of thongs in athletic environments.

Innovations in fabric and design prioritize both function and form, accommodating varied body types.

Sharapova's endorsement of specific brands has also contributed to the dialogue around athletic attire, reflecting broader trends in sports marketing that advocate for versatility and personal comfort in sportswear.

The decision for athletes to wear thong-style underwear may reflect broader cultural acceptance of diverse fashion choices in professional settings, including sports, where appearance and performance often overlap.

Recent studies in kinesiology suggest that clothing fit can affect athletic efficiency, with tighter fits potentially providing better proprioceptive feedback during physical activity.

There's a growing emphasis on the role of self-expression in athletic clothing choices.

For athletes like Sharapova, fashion signifies individuality while competing at peak performance.

The integration of fashion into athletics has prompted discussions on gender norms in sports, as female athletes like Sharapova challenge expectations through their attire both on and off the court.

The contrasting styles of male and female tennis attire highlight societal perceptions of professionalism in sports, with women's choices often subjected to more scrutiny.

Investigations into fashion psychology reveal that when athletes feel good in their clothing, it can enhance their overall self-efficacy, leading to improved competitive outcomes and satisfaction in their sport.

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