Sitting down with Stan Smith, it’s immediately apparent that his impact goes far beyond the tennis court. Known primarily as a two-time major champion and once the number one ranked player in the world, Smith’s athletic achievements are undeniably impressive. Yet, for many, his legacy isn’t just his sporting success—it’s the iconic sneakers that bear his name and image, transcending sports to become a cultural phenomenon.

The Adidas Stan Smith shoe, first introduced in the early 1970s, has evolved from a niche athletic sneaker into a global symbol of style and self-expression. Characterized by its minimalist white leather design, green heel tab, and Smith’s portrait stamped on the tongue, the shoe’s clean aesthetic made it versatile beyond tennis courts. It found its way into fashion circles, music scenes, and street culture, embraced by disparate groups from hip-hop artists to fashion designers. Celebrities such as David Bowie, Pharrell Williams, and even public figures like Barack Obama have worn Stan Smiths, showcasing the shoe’s broad appeal.

Yet, few outside of tennis aficionados know much about the man behind the sneaker. Stan Smith’s story is rich and layered—one of determination, integrity, and quiet influence during turbulent times. The documentary “Who is Stan Smith?”, produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter’s Uninterrupted media company, explores these dimensions, shedding light on his life beyond tennis.

Notably, Smith was a close friend and contemporary of Arthur Ashe, another American tennis great whose sportsmanship and activism left a lasting impact. Their relationship went beyond rivalry—it was a mutual respect fostered during an era when both broke barriers in their sport. Smith also used his influence to challenge injustice; for instance, he supported author Mark Mathabane, whose writings exposed the harsh realities of apartheid in South Africa, assisting efforts to help Mathabane escape that oppressive regime.

One of Stan Smith’s defining moments on court was his decision to boycott Wimbledon in 1973 alongside several top players. The protest was against the suspension of Yugoslav player Nikola Pilić, a stand Crawford took to advocate for players’ rights and fairness in the sport. This episode reveals a man willing to sacrifice personal glory for principles, further deepening his legacy.

When Adidas first released the Stan Smith tennis shoe in 1971—originally named after the French player Robert Haillet—the design was refined and eventually rebranded with Smith’s name in 1972. Initial reactions were lukewarm, with some doubting the shoe’s commercial potential. That perspective changed dramatically following Smith’s 1972 Wimbledon victory, which positioned both the player and the shoe in the global spotlight. Production numbers skyrocketed, and the Stan Smith sneaker became one of the best-selling tennis shoes of all time.

What makes the Stan Smith sneaker unique is not just its design but its timelessness. “It’s effortless, timeless,” Smith reflects. The shoe has gone through fashion cycles without losing its relevance—a rare feat in the fickle world of style. From punk rockers to preppy students, the shoe’s adaptability has made it an icon of individualism and rebellion alike.

Despite his immense fame through this shoe, Smith remains characteristically humble. “I was just a guy who played tennis,” he says, downplaying celebrity status. Yet, he shoulders the pride of knowing his name and image have connected diverse people worldwide, knitting together communities who might be separated by age, culture, and interests.

When asked about advice for young tennis players, Smith offers a refreshingly grounded perspective: “Just go out and play your best game every day. And don’t get too hung up on winning or losing—it’s all about the journey.” This philosophy transcends sports, speaking to anyone striving for excellence in any domain.

Smith’s journey is a reminder that sometimes, legacy is built quietly. While many know the shoe, few understand the man’s nuanced story: an athlete who was a principled activist, a supportive friend, and an unexpectedly enduring cultural figure.

As I leave, I glance down at my own feet, laced in Stan Smiths. It’s more than a fashion statement—it’s a tribute to a man whose influence stretches beyond scoreboard victories to resonate across generations. After all, in tennis, as in life, “the serve is everything”—and Smith’s serve was one that propelled him toward lasting greatness, both on and off the court.