In Newark, Mike Vorkunov writes tennis player Novak Djokovic's "dominant season has earned him respect but not marketability." Djokovic's presence at the U.S. Open "has hardly matched his status within the sport." At the tournament, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal "have a Nike store solely devoted to sell T-shirts adorned with their personal logos, mottos and images," and there is a "Lacoste store with a banner photo of Andy Roddick above the doorway." Djokovic in '09 left adidas to sign a sponsorship deal with Italian clothing company Sergio Tacchini. Unlike Nike, "which has created separate clothing lines for Federer and Nadal, Djokovic's image has been more subdued" (Newark STAR-LEDGER, 9/8).
BALLPARK BREW: The Cubs are continuing their decades-long partnership with Old Style beer, which will return to Wrigley Field for the '12 and '13 seasons. The renewed agreement includes updated signage throughout the ballpark and more fan events and promotional opportunities next season. Old Style is hosting a Fan Appreciation Day at the Sept. 16 Astros-Cubs game at Wrigley Field. Pabst Brewing Co. Chair Dean Metropoulos, whose company makes Old Style, will throw out the first pitch, and 62 fans will be randomly selected to receive Cubs Cash and Old Style gifts (Pabst Brewing Co.).
ROUNDUP: M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment will handle PR for boxer Amir Khan. The sports agency will provide strategic media advice to the Khan's management team with a goal of developing his commercial potential. M&C Saatchi also represents Real Madrid F Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United F Wayne Rooney, and F1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Mark Webber (THE DAILY)....Respect Your Universe, Inc. announced the introduction of its new high-performance apparel line. The training and competition line was created to specifically enhance the athlete's overall performance (THE DAILY).
