Wimbledon's All-White Dress Code: Unraveling the Tradition, Controversies, and Evolution OR Wimbledon's White Wardrobe: The History, Rebellion, and Modern Evolution of Tennis's Strictest Dress Code

Taylor Fritz of the U.S., right, greets Gabriel Diallo of Canada at the net after winning their second round men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Wimbledon, the world's oldest and arguably most prestigious tennis tournament, has been a fixture on the sporting calendar since 1877. Integral to its identity is its strict dress code: players must wear predominantly white clothing, with only a small 10mm trim of color permitted. This tradition, deeply ingrained in the tournament's history, has evolved over time, sparking both admiration and controversy.

The Victorian Origins of White Attire

The all-white rule dates back to the 1870s, a time when societal norms dictated that visible perspiration was considered unseemly. The primary aim was to minimize the visibility of sweat marks and ensure players maintained a respectable appearance. The choice of white was also practical, helping players stay cooler during summer matches.

While the original intent was pragmatic, the all-white dress code has since become synonymous with Wimbledon's tradition and heritage, setting it apart from other major tennis events.

Evolving Rules and Controversies

Over the years, the Wimbledon dress code has faced scrutiny and undergone occasional revisions. One significant area of discussion has revolved around the comfort and well-being of female players.

Addressing Concerns About Menstruation

Prominent figures in the tennis world, including Billie Jean King, Judy Murray, and Heather Watson, have voiced concerns about the discomfort experienced by menstruating players wearing white undershorts. In response to these concerns, the All England Club updated its policy in 2023, allowing players to wear dark-colored undershorts, provided they are not visible beyond the shorts or skirt.

Past Infractions and Rebellions

Controversies surrounding the dress code are not new to Wimbledon. In 1949, Gertrude Moran caused a stir with her visible undergarments. In the 1980s, Andre Agassi, known for his unconventional attire, famously boycotted the tournament in protest of the all-white rule.

Tennis icon Roger Federer also challenged the boundaries in 2013 when he sported white shoes with orange soles. Tournament officials requested that he refrain from wearing the shoes, prompting Federer to label the rules as "too strict".

Venus Williams faced a similar situation in 2017 when she was required to change her attire during a rain delay due to the visibility of her fuchsia bra straps.

Recent Relaxations of the Rules

In 2023, Wimbledon took steps to ease restrictions, allowing women to wear darker undershorts beneath their skirts. This decision followed feedback from several players who expressed concerns about wearing white during their menstrual cycle.

The AELTC issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to prioritizing women's health and supporting players' individual needs. They also mentioned ongoing discussions with the WTA, manufacturers, and medical teams to explore further improvements in this area.