In the world of sports, fashion has always played a significant role. From David Beckham's iconic hairstyles to Allen Iverson’s tunnel outfits , athletes have been setting fashion trends for decades. However, in recent years, this intersection between sports and style has become increasingly prominent.
One recent example of this intersection is the viral sensation sparked by Rodrygo spotted in the sunny streets of Madrid wearing HFP’s Heart capsule collection head to toe. The image, which garnered a staggering 1.3 million likes, and the accompanying video, reposted by major media outlets such as 433.
Apart from Rodrygo, teammate Aurelien Tchouameni was spotted wearing the brand on multiple occasions. Courtside at the Los Angeles Crypto Arena with the HFP Club Calabasas Family & Friends tee shirt or “Shopping for Sneakers” with Kick Game in London, wearing the SSD Black Zip hoodie & sweatpants.
Much like the current La Liga players, HFP has also been spotted in Ligue 1, in Olympique Lyonnais' locker room, among the likes of Rayan Cherki, Sinaly Diomandé, or Saïd Benrahma. A parallel between two cities that reminds of 2022 Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema seen in our classic white tee.
Aurelien Tchouameni in our Homies From Paris SSD hoodie & sweatpants
The intersection between fashion and football is not a new concept, but the rise of social media has made it easier for players to showcase their style and become trendsetters in the fashion world. HFP is a brand that has been embraced by many footballers such as Atletico teammates Memphis Depay also wearing the Heart capsule hoodie & sweatpants in brown or Antoine Griezzmann alongside Koke at a Marlins game in Miami wearing the Skin & Soul tee shirt.
Upbringings and culture of the land tend to influence stylistic sensibilities, so it is not a far reach to assume that Brazil has played a part in Rodrygo's personal sense of style. Not just him, but also our creative team at HFP has been influenced by the south american country. The brand's upcoming 777 collection hints at a thematic inspiration that pays homage to the land of Brazil.
Antoine Griezzman in our Homies From Paris Skin & Soul tee shirt
Rodrygo’s journey from Santos to Spain mirrors that of another Brazilian sensation, Neymar. Both players made the leap from Brazilian football to the European stage at a young age.
Rodrygo's rapid progression saw him called up to the first team of Santos in March 2017, catching the eye of then-manager Dorival Júnior. He made his senior debut for Santos on November 4, 2017, in a Série A match against Atlético Mineiro, showcasing glimpses of his immense potential. Over the next couple of seasons, Rodrygo became a key figure for Santos, dazzling fans with his performances both domestically and in continental competitions like the Copa Libertadores.
In June 2018, Real Madrid secured the services of Rodrygo in a €45 million deal, with the Brazilian starlet officially joining the club in June 2019. His transition to European football was seamless, as he made an immediate impact, scoring on his La Liga debut against Osasuna within a minute of coming off the bench.
Karim Benzema in our Homies From Paris Classic White tee shirt
Rodrygo's breakthrough moment came in the 2019-2020 UEFA Champions League campaign when he netted a hat-trick against Galatasaray, becoming the first player born in the 21st century to achieve such a feat in the competition. He continued to impress, showcasing his versatility and maturity beyond his years. Since he arrived in La Liga, Rodrygo has been instrumental in the club's success, contributing crucial goals and assists in both domestic and European competitions.
One of his most memorable moments came in a Champions League semi-final clash against Manchester City, where he scored two late goals to turn the tables, earning praise from fans and pundits alike.
On the international stage, Rodrygo has represented Brazil at various youth levels before making his senior debut in 2019. Since then, he has become a regular fixture in the national team setup, showcasing his talent and contributing valuable goals for his country. With a bright future ahead of him, Rodrygo continues to go from strength to strength, epitomising the blend of skill, dedication, and flair that defines Brazilian football.
Sportspersons have always been seen as role models, and their influence extends beyond the pitch. They inspire young people to pursue their dreams and aim beyond the stars all the while encouraging them to embrace themselves and their personal style and using fashion as a way to put forth one's ideologies and showcase their personality.
The intersection between sports and fashion has become increasingly prominent in the world of football. Athletes like Rodrygo embody the next generation of footballing phenoms who are not only defined by their on-field exploits but also by their style off the pitch. As the worlds of sports and fashion continue to intertwine, expect the narratives of football's brightest stars to transcend the confines of the pitch, captivating audiences worldwide and redefining the notion of sporting icons.
