Lea Pericoli era una campionessa di tennis negli anni 40. Pericoli vince 27 campionati italiani tra singolo e doppio.  Aveva un atletismo e una grazia unici in questi tempi per una donna in uno sport dominato dagli uomini. La cosa però che più affascinava entrambi delle vittorie era il suo stile. Pericoli era not per i suoi abiti di alta moda. Aveva uno stile unico ed è diventata un'icona della moda. Era un’ispirazione per le atlete di tennis di oggi, ad esempio Serena Williams e Maria Sharapova, conosciute non solo per il tennis ma anche come fashioniste. Ancora oggi, Pericoli lascia il segno nello sport e per essere una donna elegante.

Lea Pericoli is more than just a name in tennis; she’s an icon who redefined how sports and fashion intersect. Known as the "Divina" (the Divine), Pericoli broke ground in the 1950s and 60s, not only with her talent on the court but also with her sense of style, turning tennis matches into fashion runways. Her career, personality, and contribution to the world of tennis and Italian culture have left an enduring legacy that transcends the sport.

Born on March 22, 1935, in Milan, Italy, Lea Pericoli began playing tennis as a young girl and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. By the 1950s, she had emerged as one of Italy’s most promising players, and she went on to represent her country at the highest levels. Pericoli played in all four Grand Slam tournaments during her career, including multiple appearances at Wimbledon and the French Open.

While she may not have won a Grand Slam title, Pericoli’s achievements on the court were impressive. She captured an astounding 27 national Italian championships, including both singles and doubles titles. She was also a key figure in Italy’s Fed Cup team, contributing to the rise of Italian women’s tennis on the international stage. Her highest career ranking was within the top 10, a significant achievement for the era, and she remains one of Italy’s most celebrated female athletes.

Lea Pericoli’s tennis talent was undeniable, but what truly set her apart was her glamorous sense of fashion, which made her a global star beyond the confines of the sport. In an era when female tennis players wore simple, conservative outfits, Pericoli turned heads with her bold and innovative style choices, which earned her the nickname "the most elegant woman in tennis."

Her collaboration with renowned Italian fashion designer Ted Tinling was pivotal. Tinling, who designed for many female tennis players, crafted stunning, custom-made tennis dresses for Pericoli that brought haute couture to the court. These outfits were daring for their time – lace, fur, and vibrant colors were a far cry from the standard white dresses of the sport. Most famously, Pericoli wore a lace dress at Wimbledon in 1964, which caused a sensation and firmly cemented her status as a style icon.

Pericoli’s fashion statements at major tournaments helped change the way the world viewed tennis. She brought glamour and attention to the women’s game, which was still fighting for visibility in the male-dominated sports landscape. Her impact on fashion extended beyond the court; she became a cultural icon, influencing how women athletes were perceived and celebrated for both their abilities and their individuality.

Lea Pericoli’s legacy is also significant for what she represented to Italian women during a time when female athletes faced considerable challenges. In the conservative social climate of mid-20th century Italy, women were expected to conform to traditional roles, but Pericoli broke those norms. As a successful, independent woman excelling in an international sport, she became a role model for a generation of young Italian women.

Her elegance, confidence, and intelligence – she was fluent in several languages – were admired both on and off the court. Pericoli also pursued a career in sports journalism after her playing days ended, further showing her versatility and commitment to Italian sports. She became a beloved television personality, covering major tennis events and offering expert commentary. Her knowledge and passion for the game made her a respected voice in Italian media, ensuring her influence on the sport continued for years.

Lea Pericoli’s contributions to tennis and her unique blend of athleticism and style have left an indelible mark on the sport. Her influence is still seen today in the fashion-forward approaches of modern tennis stars like Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova, who continue to push the boundaries of how athletes present themselves. Pericoli paved the way for female athletes to embrace both their sport and their personal expression, proving that elegance and competition can coexist.

Her legacy goes beyond tennis. In Italy, she remains an iconic figure, a symbol of class, tenacity, and innovation. Pericoli’s life and career have been celebrated in various ways, including exhibitions and tributes that honor her dual contributions to sport and fashion. She was inducted into the Italian Tennis Hall of Fame and continues to inspire new generations of tennis players and fashion enthusiasts.

Lea Pericoli is much more than a tennis player; she is a pioneer who elevated the sport through her talent and style. Her blend of athleticism, grace, and fashion-forward thinking forever changed the way the world views tennis and its athletes. Whether remembered for her daring lace dress at Wimbledon or her 27 Italian championships, Pericoli’s legacy endures as an embodiment of Italian elegance, strength, and the timeless connection between fashion and sport. 

Lea Pericoli died on October 4, 2024, at age 89.