You’d think fashion statements would be the last thing to be concerned about as the sporting world gears up for the 2024 Olympics. You’d be wrong. Over the last few months, the USA’s track and field community has been clamoring about its displeasure with the national athletes’ Nike uniform in Paris. And now, as the wrestling delegation reveals its new fit for the grand showdown, things might get even more contested.

Athletes and national celebrities from all walks of life have slammed the Nike jerseys for their ignorance of the stars’ needs. While the debate hasn’t died down entirely, other pressing matters like qualifying for the Olympics and gauging the USA’s hopes at the Games have become more pertinent. But it’s not all under the bridge just yet, from the looks of it.

Wrestling gear for the Paris Olympics comes to light

The official account of USA Wrestling took to X and Instagram earlier today to unveil the jersey design the men and women will be wearing at the French capital as they hope to maintain the USA’s dominance in the sport at the Olympic Games. “Our Olympic Team singlets for Paris revealed today,” reads the post’s caption as the accompanying image shows a blue uniform for the men and a red one for the women of Team USA’s wrestling contingent. 

Naturally, the wrestling jerseys look like something fans from the country resonate better with than what the sporting apparel Behemoth had to offer to the track stars of the country. The track uniform has attracted significant flak from the fans, who have even accused them of being “sexist“. However, with the wrestling kit, things seem to be evoking a different kind of response.

With the new fit coming to the fore, fans now breathe a sigh of relief believing that the USA will remain as distinguishable as ever even when they share the stage with stars from all four corners of the globe.

The fans share their approval

Considering how fans feel let down by Nike with the apparel giant failing to meet expectations with the track and field jersey, many seem to think the wrestling uniform could salvage the situation. So much so, that some have taken the opportunity to advocate for these jerseys to be used by more athletes for the Paris Games. “Can the track athletes wear these instead?” enquired Miranda on Instagram.

Both the uniforms seem to be inspired by the national flag of the United States, unlike Nike’s track and field design, which is more directed by the brand’s own visions. Referring to that, Leah commented, “We got good colors.”

“boutique,” commented another fan in the comment section of the Instagram post, possibly claiming that the uniforms look so unique they might be off the shelves of some posh clothing brand.

Evelyn thinks the uniforms will look even better if they’re complimented by a shoe to go with. With many fans being a connoisseur and admirers of the official jerseys from international tournaments, she thinks if a shoe design is also unveiled, many wrestling loyalists of the country would want to own a few pairs. “Any wrestling shoes coming out for the olymics?” enquired her comment.

Gunner thinks the jerseys will only be noteworthy if the athletes who wear them can prove to be as memorable in Paris. Referring to how the USA wrestling dominated the 1996 Olympics with a total of 8 medals, the fan commented, “Need to replicate the 96 team“.

What did you think of the new wrestling jerseys? How do you think Kyle Dake and Helen Maroulis & Co. will fare in Paris with these fan-approved uniforms? Tell us more in the comments!