Who Is René Lacoste? Age, Biography and Wiki
René Lacoste, born on July 2, 1904, in Paris, France, is celebrated as one of the preeminent tennis players of his time, achieving fame in the 1920s. The Frenchman is known not only for his athletic prowess but also for pioneering the modern sportswear revolution with his brand, Lacoste. He helped shape the game with his innovative style and competitiveness, earning the nickname "The Crocodile"—a moniker that remains synonymous with his legacy. René Lacoste passed away in 1996, but his influence in both sports and fashion continues to resonate today.
Occupation | Fashion Designers |
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Date of Birth | July 2, 1904 |
Age | 92 Years |
Birth Place | Paris, France |
Horoscope | Cancer |
Country | France |
Date of death | 12 October, 1996 |
Died Place | Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France |
Popularity
René Lacoste's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
René Lacoste stood at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and maintained an athletic build that weighed around 170 lbs (77 kg) during his prime. While specific measurements such as chest or waist size were not routinely recorded during his era, his stature played a significant role in his agility on the court.
In 1933, Lacoste founded La Société Chemise Lacoste with André Gillier. The company produced the tennis shirt, also known as a "polo shirt," which Lacoste often wore when he was playing; this had a crocodile (often thought to be an alligator) embroidered on the chest. In 1963, Lacoste's son Bernard took over the management of the company.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As for his romantic life, René Lacoste was married to Simone Thion de la Chaume in 1931, and the couple had two children together. They remained partners until Lacoste's passing in 1996. While details about his personal relationships outside of his marriage are scarce, Lacoste’s commitment to his family was evident throughout his life.
Lacoste started playing tennis at age 15 when he accompanied his father on a trip to England. His first participation in a Grand Slam tournament was the 1922 Wimbledon Championships in which he lost in the first round to Pat O'Hara Wood.
The following year, 1923, he reached the fourth round at Wimbledon to be narrowly defeated by Cecil Campbell, and he competed for the first time in the U.S. Championships.
Net Worth and Salary
At the peak of his career and continuing into his later years, René Lacoste's net worth was substantial, largely thanks to his successful brand. As of 2025, his estate is estimated to be worth over $500 million, resulting primarily from the enduring popularity of the Lacoste brand, which revolutionized polo shirts and sportswear. This iconic label continues to generate significant annual revenue, further solidifying Lacoste's financial legacy.
Career, Business and Investments
Lacoste’s career began on the tennis courts, where he won seven Grand Slam singles titles and contributed to the establishment of tennis as a prominent sport. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to create the Lacoste brand in 1933, introducing the first-ever polo shirt made from breathable cotton knit, a novel concept at the time. The brand quickly gained traction and is now one of the leading names in sports fashion. Beyond clothing, Lacoste was involved in various business ventures, including endorsements and partnerships that expanded his brand globally.
Social Network
Though René Lacoste lived before the advent of social media, his legacy continues to be celebrated online. The official Lacoste social media pages on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pay tribute to his contributions in fashion and sports. Furthermore, fan pages and forums often discuss his innovative playstyle and achievements, keeping his spirit alive in the digital space.
Education
While specific details about Lacoste's early education are limited, he attended the Lycée Louis-le-Grand, a prestigious school in Paris. His academic pursuits were complemented by his sporting endeavors, as he honed his skills in tennis from a young age. This dedication to both education and athletics undoubtedly laid the foundation for his illustrious career.