BREAKING: Bernard Arnault’s $5M Offer to Emma Raducanu Shakes US Open 2025!

In a dazzling moment that has electrified the tennis and fashion worlds, Bernard Arnault, the billionaire CEO of LVMH and visionary behind Louis Vuitton, stunned fans by offering British tennis sensation Emma Raducanu a staggering $5 million to promote a new line of custom-designed outfits and a monogrammed racket for the remainder of the US Open 2025. The announcement, made on August 26, 2025, came hours after Raducanu’s commanding 6-3, 6-4 first-round victory at Flushing Meadows. Raducanu’s five-word response thrilled Arnault, but her bold follow-up request left the global audience in awe, cementing her as a force both on and off the court.

A Monumental Offer Post-Victory

Fresh off her first-round win over Sofia Kenin, Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, showcased her resurgence at age 22, dominating with precise groundstrokes and newfound confidence. Arnault, whose $200 billion empire has redefined luxury, seized the moment to announce the deal during a press event at Louis Vuitton’s New York flagship store. The sponsorship includes bespoke on-court apparel—sleek dresses and visors adorned with Louis Vuitton’s iconic monogram—and a custom-designed racket featuring the brand’s Damier pattern. “Emma is a young talent who deserves to shine,” Arnault said. “Her grace and grit embody Louis Vuitton’s spirit.”

The $5 million offer, one of the most lucrative in tennis history, builds on Raducanu’s rising star power in 2025, marked by semifinal runs at Wimbledon and Indian Wells. Timed with her strong US Open start, the deal positions her as a global ambassador for Louis Vuitton, following in the footsteps of stars like Jannik Sinner, who signed a similar deal days earlier.

Raducanu’s Electrifying Response

Raducanu, known for her poise under pressure, responded to Arnault’s offer with five words that sent the billionaire into a frenzy of excitement: “Let’s redefine elegance together, Bernard.” The confident, charismatic reply, delivered via a video call from Flushing Meadows, sparked cheers from the assembled media. “Emma’s words capture her vision and fire,” Arnault told WWD. “She’s a once-in-a-generation talent.”

But Raducanu’s next move was the real shocker. In a display of heart and conviction, she requested that Louis Vuitton donate $500,000 of the sponsorship funds to the UK’s National Tennis Centre to fund scholarships for disadvantaged young players. “I want kids like me, from diverse backgrounds, to have a shot at their dreams,” Raducanu said. “This isn’t just about me—it’s about the future.” Arnault, visibly moved, agreed instantly and pledged an additional $500,000 from LVMH, bringing the total donation to $1 million. “Emma’s request shows her soul,” Arnault said. “This partnership is about impact.”

Social Media Frenzy

The announcement set X ablaze, with fans lauding Raducanu’s victory and her selfless demand. “Emma’s serving looks AND heart? Unstoppable,” tweeted @TennisStarUK. Others hailed the Louis Vuitton collaboration, with @FashionServe posting, “Raducanu’s racket in LV monogram? Iconic!” British fans rallied behind her, with #EmmaInLV trending alongside viral mock-ups of her custom gear. Serena Williams, a Louis Vuitton ambassador, tweeted, “Emma’s changing the game. Proud moment.”

Some fans drew parallels to Sinner’s recent Louis Vuitton deal, with @TennisVibesX joking, “LV’s collecting tennis champs like Pokémon cards!” Others referenced Raducanu’s 2021 US Open fairytale, with @RallyPoint99 writing, “From wildcard to LV queen—Emma’s back!”

A Star’s Resurgence

Raducanu’s request aligns with her off-court efforts, including 2024 visits to UK community tennis programs. Her 2025 season, bolstered by a career-high No. 12 ranking, reflects her recovery from injury-plagued years post-2021. “Emma’s playing with freedom again,” said coach Nick Cavaday. “This deal is a testament to her hard work.” Her US Open performance, coupled with the Louis Vuitton partnership, has reignited hopes of a second Grand Slam title.

What’s Next?

As Raducanu advances in the US Open, all eyes will be on her Louis Vuitton-designed outfits and racket, set to debut in her second-round match on August 28, 2025. The partnership amplifies her quest for another Flushing Meadows crown, with analysts predicting a surge in her global fanbase. “Emma’s blending sport and style like no one else,” said Vogue’s Edward Enninful. “This is a defining moment.”

The deal has sparked debate about Raducanu’s growing influence, with comparisons to Naomi Osaka’s fashion endorsements. As #EmmaInLV trends worldwide, fans are eager to see if her new look will propel her deep into the tournament. Will the pressure of this high-profile partnership elevate her game, or will it intensify the spotlight?

Tune into ESPN or Tennis TV for US Open coverage, and join the conversation on X using #EmmaInLV. Raducanu’s five words and bold request have set the stage for a historic run.