TOMMY HILFIGER launches Rafael Nadal as Global Brand Ambassadorship

WHAT: Tommy Hilfiger, which is owned by PVH Corp. [NYSE: PVH], launched its global brand ambassadorship with iconic tennis star Rafael Nadal for Tommy Hilfiger underwear, tailored and fragrance with a pop-up tennis event in Bryant Park. The 14-time Grand Slam winner challenged some of New York¹s best-dressed opponents in a one-of-a-kind, rapid-fire tennis competition, with a fun, sexy twist. The event celebrated the debut of the new Tommy Hilfiger underwear collection and unveiling of the dedicated advertising campaign featuring the tennis icon.

Nadal faced off in several rounds of tennis with top models including Chanel Iman, Constance Jablonski, Hannah Davis, Noah Mills, Arthur Kulkov and Akin Akman, all dressed in custom Tommy Hilfiger looks. Each time a team scored a point their opponents removed a piece of clothing, eventually unveiling the new Tommy Hilfigermen’s and women’s underwear designs. Actresses Jane Lynch and Lake Bell hosted the event from the umpire’s seat as Nadal took victory in three consecutive games.

“We’ve revamped our men’s underwear collection with a look that’s modern, athletic and bold, and Nadal is the ultimate global brand ambassador for this new direction,” said designer Tommy Hilfiger. “Since I first established my brand 30 years ago, we’ve always brought a unique twist to our designs andour advertising. Today’s event continues our tradition of bold, surprising campaigns and iconic ambassadors that celebrate our brand spirit and resonate with our consumers globally.”

“I love how this event brings together fashion and sport with Tommy’s signature twist – it was the perfect way to kick-off my partnership with Tommy Hilfiger,” said Rafael Nadal. “I’m proud to be launching the new campaign in the middle of New York City with such an exciting event.”

The advertising campaign was revealed just after midnight on August 25 through the brand’s social media channels, and will run globally in top print publications, television, online and out-of-home placements, including billboards in key cities worldwide. The striking campaign imagery and revealing video was shot in Nadal’s hometown in Mallorca, Spain.

To complement the event and partnership the brand launched a series of digital initiatives, including a live Periscope feed from the event hosted by American fashion blogger SazanBarzani. In an exclusive collaboration with Funny or Die, comedian Nate Dern brought a new perspective to the traditional red-carpet Q&A in a series of videos that will be revealed on social media over the following days.

The Fall 2015 Tommy Hilfiger underwear collection refreshes classic styles with updated fits, revamped fabrics and elevated details. Design innovations, including a special four-way flex stretch technology, combine with premium fabrics for a result that’s sophisticated, durable and essential for every day comfort. The Fall 2015 Tommy Hilfiger Tailored collection features sharp silhouettes, modern tailoring and rich textures.

The Bold fragrance celebrates the spirit of determination and has been created for the modern man who lives bold, with a competitive nature and effortless self-confidence.

WHO: Tommy Hilfiger and Rafael Nadal were joined by fashion icons, sports stars, models, and VIPs, including:

Glee star and Hollywood Game Night host Jane Lynch; No Escape and Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp star Lake Bell; Paper Towns star Nat Wolff;home and design icon Martha Stewart;supermodels Chanel Iman and Constance Jablonski; 2015 Sports IllustratedSwimsuit Issue cover model Hannah Davis; actor and model Noah Mills; Hilfiger models Arthur Kulkov and Akin Akman; and fashion bloggersBryanboy, Danielle Bernsteinand SazanBarzani, all dressed in Tommy Hilfiger.

WHEN: Tuesday, August 25

WHERE: Bryant Park
New York, NY

SOCIAL: Friends of the brand joined the conversation on social media using the hashtag#TOMMYXNADAL and the Twitter/Instagram handles @TommyHilfiger and @RafaelNadal.