Official Wimbledon smartphone partner, OPPO, held its ‘Courting the Colour’ media event and exhibition, which brought new meaning to historic moments in tennis using the advantages of one billion colours.
Using impeccable craftsmanship and advanced technology, OPPO, in partnership with Getty Images, reawakened the colour of old iconic photographs to retell the stories behind each, bringing the most beautiful and poignant moments to life in a way never seen before. Inspired by the belief that compassionate technology can help inspire vivid emotions, the collection highlights powerful tennis stories that still reverberate in our times today.
Unveiled at an intimate workshop in London, Kevin Cho, Managing Director of OPPO UK, together with a special guest from The All England Lawn Tennis Club, Mick Desmond, AELTC Commercial and Media Director, and other distinguished panellists including tennis legend Greg Rusedski; the voice of tennis, Andrew Cotter; and magazine publisher and fashion consultant, Caroline Issa, shared excitement for the return of the tournament. The panel unpacked themes within the collection, covering profound and pivotal moments in tennis history regarding race, gender and fashion. The workshop also exhibited the emotive collection and a hands-on experience with OPPO’s flagship product of the year – Find X3 Pro.
Acknowledging the most iconic historic moments in tennis
Combined with OPPO’s imaging advantages, each image underwent a tireless process of restoration by experts at Getty Images. The Courting the Colour collection of seven images features the first African American athletes to win Wimbledon, Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe, bringing new life to their relentless resilience in the face of the societal injustices of their time. Images of Suzanne Lenglen, Helen Jacobs and Fred Perry, famed for gracing the court in style, showcase the cultural icons and how they fought for their identity and beliefs. From changing fashion both on and off court, to shifting stereotypical depictions of female athletes, this trio blazed a trail well before their time.
Rusedski said, ‘The return of tennis is to be celebrated, and what better way than to explore the iconic moments that have made the sport what it is today. The craftsmanship of the Courting the Colour collection made the images – some 80+ years’ old – seem like they were taken just yesterday, portraying them through an unseen lens and reigniting important conversations.’
Gregor Almassy, Overseas CMO for OPPO commented, ‘As a partner of Wimbledon for the last three years, OPPO has long been moved by the spirit of the sport and recognise that the tournaments, players and fans have been hit hard by the pandemic. By refocusing on the essence of tennis we hope to give fans a deeper connection to the sport, and in doing so, encourage fans around the world to play with heart. Where better to do so than the foundational pillar to the sport, Wimbledon.’
Desmond added, ‘As a sport, tennis has long been at the forefront of technology, using cutting edge advances to facilitate important conversations and improve the game, which is why Wimbledon is incredibly proud to partner with leading innovator OPPO on the Courting the Colour campaign.’
The colourful pieces of art complement the recently launched Find X3 Pro. Courting the Colour is part of a series of activations under OPPO’s Play with Heart campaign, created to help bring fans closer to the sport – and, just as the photographs demonstrate – show that by playing with heart we can overcome difficult times and advocate diversity.
