Published 18:45 IST, July 26th 2024
Wimbledon Championship Towels Have An India Connect? Find Out
The 2024 Wimbledon saw Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz clinch his second consecutive title by defeating Novak Djokovic. The Championship towels were made-in-India.
- Lifestyle
- 2 min read
The recent Wimbledon finale saw Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz clinch his second consecutive title by defeating Novak Djokovic. Alongside the memorable match, the iconic green and purple Wimbledon Championship towels once again took centre stage. Remarkably, these towels, a staple for tennis players during every match, have been made in India’s Vapi, Gujarat, for the past 15 years.
From Vapi to London: Journey of Wimbledon's championship towel
"Our long-standing partnership with Wimbledon highlights India’s exceptional production quality on a global stage," said Vanshika Goenka, CEO of Christy UK, a subsidiary of Welspun Living Limited, the official towel manufacturers for the championship, citing The Indian Express report. "These towels are not just functional; they are coveted collector’s items for tennis enthusiasts. It’s a point of pride that these products are ethically and ecologically produced in India."
The factory in Vapi specializes in creating yarn-dyed jacquard towels, where two different coloured yarns are woven together to form the fabric. This technique results in towels that are vibrant on both sides, showcasing India’s advanced textile craftsmanship.
India’s growing influence in the global textile industry has garnered significant attention, bolstered by the government’s support and initiatives. The production of these towels at such a prestigious event underscores India’s rising prominence in this sector
Ideation of this collectors' item
Lucy Ackroyd, Head of Design at Christy UK, shared insights into the meticulous design process for these towels. "We start planning 18 months before the tournament, taking into account the latest design and colour trends for the season," Ackroyd explained, citing The Indian Express report. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the towels remain stylish and relevant year after year.
The collaboration between Wimbledon and India’s textile industry reflects a blend of tradition and innovation. It celebrates the craftsmanship and dedication of Indian manufacturers, bringing a touch of Indian excellence to the world’s most prestigious tennis tournament. As these towels continue to be an integral part of Wimbledon, they symbolize not only the sport’s heritage but also India’s significant contribution to it.
Updated 18:45 IST, July 26th 2024