George Gervin, a former professional basketball player, is competing against Ralph Lauren.
According to Sports Business Journal, Gervin has filed a lawsuit against the fashion brand because a sneaker dubbed the “Gervin Mid” was sold without his permission.
The shoe was released in 2022 and is comparable to one worn by Gervin in the 1970s. Furthermore, the firm allegedly neglected to compensate Gervin and continued to sell multiple versions of the sneaker despite Gervin’s attorney’s request for a cease and desist.
“I have worked hard throughout my career to build my name and reputation, and I will not allow any company to exploit it without my permission,” Gervin said in a statement, according to the Sports Business Journal. “I am taking legal action to protect my rights and ensure that consumers are not misled.”
According to the lawsuit, when Ralph Lauren was alerted, they reacted by saying that the retro-style shoe was “coincidentally” named Gervin by a French designer because it “sounded good.” The product has since been relaunched as the “Ralph Lauren Mid.” Nonetheless, it is claimed that Gervin’s likeness is already bonded to the shoe.
“We must protect those whose privacy and identity rights become exploited in today’s increasingly data, digital, online, and technology-driven world,” Michael Clohisy, attorney for Gervin said, according to the Sports Business Journal. “George Gervin is suing Ralph Lauren to regain and control the commercial use of his name and likeness, as well as protect the next generation of athletes.”