From Kobe Bryant to Coco Gauff’s Stylish Debut: Athletes Who’ve Mastered the Oscars Red Carpet

When you think of the Oscars, names like Zendaya and Martin Scorsese immediately come to mind, right? But did you know that athletes have also been making waves at Hollywood's biggest night? Whether they're walking the red carpet, rocking daring looks, or even bagging a golden statue, athletes are no strangers to the glamour of the Oscars.

For some, it's about more than just the sport they dominate; it's about stepping into an entirely new arena. And no, we're not just talking about their athletic prowess. These legends know how to slay the red carpet, too.

Let's take a look back at some of the most unforgettable moments when athletes blended their on-field glory with off-field glam. From Kobe Bryant's history-making Oscar win to Coco Gauff's debut, this year's Oscars had even more athletes turning heads.

Kobe Bryant

In 2018, Kobe Bryant, a name synonymous with basketball greatness, made history. At the 90th Academy Awards, he walked away with an Oscar for Best Animated Short Film for Dear Basketball. It wasn't just a win for Bryant; it was a win for athletes everywhere. For this monumental night, Kobe opted for a sharp charcoal-gray tuxedo paired with a black bow tie.

Vanessa, his then-wife, wasn't to be outdone, looking stunning in a burgundy off-the-shoulder mermaid gown. Bryant's death on January 26, 2020, was a tragic moment that left the world in shock and disbelief.

Venus Williams

Venus Williams, who has won 49 WTA Tour-level singles titles, has always known how to make an entrance, both on and off the tennis court. In 2022, she upped her fashion game at the Oscars, dazzling in a low-cut white gown by Elie Saab, crafted with intricate silver detailing.

Williams worked with famed stylist Law Roach to elevate her Oscars look, and her ensemble was the talk of the night. As she shared with Vogue, "I'm usually stepping off a tennis court or in workout clothes when the cameras are on me, so it was fun to get dressed up and dive into the glitz and glam over these past few weeks."

Mirai Nagasu

At the 2018 Oscars, figure skater Mirai Nagasu-fresh off her Olympic success-made a striking appearance in a cornflower-blue embroidered gown by Tadashi Shoji. She paid homage to Lupita Nyong'o's iconic blue gown from the 2014 Oscars and added a special touch of her own: her bronze medal tucked neatly inside her clutch. Talk about a power move. Nagasu didn't just bring her fashion A-game but her Olympic spirit too.

Roger Federer

Roger Federer made his return to the Oscars in 2024, and as expected, he brought his style game to the forefront. Wearing a sleek Prada dinner jacket, he looked every bit the part of a Hollywood star.

After the event, Federer shared his excitement about the experience, particularly enjoying performances like Ryan Gosling's "I'm Just Ken" from Barbie and Cillian Murphy's Best Actor acceptance speech for Oppenheimer.

Shaun White

Shaun White, the Olympic gold medalist in snowboarding, and actress Nina Dobrev made a stunning pair at the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party. While Dobrev shone in silver, White opted for a cream tuxedo jacket that matched the elegance of his fiancé. Together, they showed us how a couple can steal the spotlight, not just for their accomplishments but also their undeniable sense of style.

Serena Williams

Serena Williams, a force on the tennis court, wasn't going to let any other celebrity outshine her at the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party. She turned heads in a dramatic long black gown by Off-White, paired with red and white detailing. Her coordinating gloves and Messika jewelry only added to her stunning look.

During the event, Williams admitted that the Oscars party is more nerve-wracking than playing on the court, but she embraced the fun atmosphere.

Coco Gauff

New to the Oscars scene, Coco Gauff made her debut at the 2025 ceremony, and she certainly didn't disappoint. Wearing a tennis-inspired yellow gown with a unique back drape design, Gauff looked every bit the part of a rising fashion icon. She wasn't alone-her mom, Candi, joined her on the red carpet, creating a sweet moment between mother and daughter.

After the ceremony, Gauff will head to Palm Springs for the Indian Wells tournament, where she'll face fierce competition. But whether on the court or on the red carpet, Coco's got a knack for making waves wherever she goes.