Andy Roddick thinks his personality and strong runs at the US Open and Wimbledon definitely played a big part in helping him secure sponsorship and endorsement deals. In an interview with Boardroom, Roddick was asked to explain what helped him create a marketable image.
Roddick admitted that it probably wasn’t his game since he was “pretty average” compared to a player like Roger Federer, who “makes the game look easy.” “I could serve really well, but beyond that I was pretty average,” Roddick told the Boardroom.
“Roger [Federer] makes the game look easy. I think people can relate to Rafa [Nadal] because it looks like there’s more effort put in. I think mixing in with the New York crowd, I don’t think people ever had to guess what my effort level was gonna be.
There was a chance I would break something. I was pretty flawed. Also, I think I was pretty honest. I think that maybe resonated pretty well. I wasn’t scared to say something or make something known if I had an opinion. Having my best results at Wimbledon and the US Open, which are probably the tournaments that corporations look at the most, was beneficial.”
Roddick wore Lacoste, sponsored the American Express
In early 2005, Roddick split with Reebok and was in danger of competing at the tournaments without a clothing deal. At the time, Roddick was a Grand Slam champion and the second-ranked player in the world.
After failing to reach an agreement on a new deal with Reebok, Roddick was left without a clothing deal. Luckily, his and Lacoste representatives were able to quickly strike a deal and Roddick spent the rest of his career wearing Lacoste on court.
Now, the United States have several talented players like Sebastian Korda, Frances Tiafoe and Jenson Brooksby. With sponsorship and endorsement deals likely coming their way, Roddick shared one advice. I think the power of no is underrated.
I kind of cringe sometimes when someone has success and then, you know, there’s eight new deals the next week. I think being thoughtful, not being in a rush, kinda letting the game come to you. You’re allowed to ask questions too , as 50% of the relationship,” Roddick said.