In 1923, René Lacoste made a bet with a big shot who promised him a crocodile-skin suitcase if he won an important match. The event attracted the attention of the media and René was nicknamed "The Crocodile" by the reporters. The American public retained this nickname and René had his friend embroider crocodiles on his polo shirts. Today, Lacoste is not only a brand for tennis and golf courts but a well established street wear brand.