As Puma marks its 75th anniversary, some of the brand’s most famous athletes answer the question: What is your favorite memory of a pair of Puma shoes?
Usain Bolt, the sprinting legend from Jamaica who holds the world records in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 4 x 100 meters and is an eight-time Olympic Gold medalist
“I recall getting my first pair of Puma Roma trainers and feeling like I could run as fast in them as I would in spikes. The sleek look on my feet ensured I could wear them for any occasion. In that moment I knew I would have a long-lasting partnership with Puma.”
Breanna Stewart, a professional basketball player for the New York Liberty of the WNBA and two-time Olympic gold medalist
“My favorite memory of my first pair of Pumas was the moment I started designing the Stewie 1. It signified a new beginning, a canvas of boundless possibilities to empower and elevate women’s presence in our sport. Puma epitomizes the spirit of embracing challenges fearlessly, and that’s what I love. With each step, I know I’m not just wearing my signature shoes; I’m walking a path of inspiration and paving the way for others to follow their dreams.”
LaMelo Ball, who plays for the Charlotte Hornets of the NBA and was Rookie of the Year in 2021 and an NBA All-Star in 2022
“For me, it was about designing my first shoe with Puma. My Puma fam has really allowed me to be Melo. Wearing my MB.01 signature shoe for the first time is a moment I will never forget.”
Walt “Clyde” Frazier, the iconic player for the New York Knicks, a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and a color commentator for Knicks broadcasts on MSG Networks
“I was delighted, excited and obviously not aware of the historical ramifications being the first player to endorse a sneaker. Not only getting sneakers but getting paid to wear the shoe and helping design it was exhilarating.”
Neymar Jr., the famed soccer forward from Brazil who plays for Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal and the Brazil national team
“The first pair of Puma I wore on the pitch were the Kings. I grew up watching great football legends like Pelé, Maradona, Eusébio and Cruyff, and for me these are the ‘Kings’ of the game, the ‘Kings’ of football and they all wore the Puma King. It was such an honor for me to bring back the legacy that those athletes created on the pitch and try to inspire generations, as they inspired mine.”
Christian Pulisic, the professional soccer player from the U.S. who plays as a winger or attacking midfielder for Serie A club AC Milan and is the captain of the U.S. national team
“My first pair of Puma shoes were actually a pair of red and white soccer cleats I wore when I was around 8 years old. My dad was a massive Puma fan, so when he got me the cleats I remember that I was very excited and just loved those cleats. Now years later being able to help design my own soccer cleats with Puma has been a dream come true.”
Rickie Fowler, the professional golfer from the U.S. who plays on the PGA Tour and the No. 1-ranked amateur for 36 weeks in 2007 and 2008
“I remember when I was turning pro that Puma shoes were always comfortable and something that was easy to put right into play, and for me, that’s what I love about Puma — I could always pull a pair out of the box and they would be good to go.”
