In 1945, Lian Pontes de Carvalho founded the game of frescobol on the shores of Rio de Janeiro - an inclusive game that could be played in the spirit of competition or meditation. It was all up to the players.

Pontes was an entrepreneur and artisan specialising in the art of woodwork, handcrafting unique objects that he sold on the corner of Rua Duvivier - a stone’s throw from Copacabana Beach. Crafting his original frescobol bat from foraged wood, and playing with a stripped back tennis ball, Pontes’ game brought a distinct - now iconic - sound to Copacabana beach: a rhythmic ‘knock-knock’ that FRESCOBOL CARIOCA has since transported to coastal destinations worldwide.

Often deemed as tennis for the beach, frescobol has quickly become a symbol of Rio de Janeiro's infectious Carioca lifestyle. In honour of Pontes’ game and Carioca lifestyle, FRESCOBOL CARIOCA was founded in 2013. Frescobol bats continued to be handcrafted in Brazil by skilled marceneiros from wood offcuts, sustainably salvaged from the Brazilian furniture industry – each a unique work of art.

As the sport’s global footprint grew, FRESCOBOL CARIOCA expanded collections with a continued focus on quality craftsmanship. Today, the brand offers a range of ready-to-wear, swimwear, footwear and accessories, always channelling a mood reflective of Rio’s transitional city-to-beach culture.