Wimbledon Traditions and the All‑White Dress Code
The Championships at Wimbledon are steeped in tradition. From strawberries and cream to royal patronage, the tournament exudes a sense of history unmatched by other tennis events. Among its most iconic customs is the strict all‑white dress code for players. This article explores the origins of Wimbledon’s attire rules and why they remain in place today.
Origins of the All‑White Requirement
Wimbledon’s clothing tradition dates back to the Victorian era. In the 1870s, when lawn tennis was gaining popularity, societal norms viewed visible perspiration as improper. Players wore white because it concealed sweat. According to historian Meredith Richards, white attire made perspiration “not quite so obvious”. Initially a preference, the tradition became policy in 1963 after Brazil’s Maria Bueno wore a colourful outfit and officials decided to formalise the dress code.
Evolution and Enforcement
Over the decades, some players tested the limits with coloured trim, but tournament officials responded by tightening regulations. In the 1970s and early 1980s, vibrant fashions inspired more restrictions. Even legends like Andre Agassi boycotted Wimbledon due to the dress code. Roger Federer was admonished in 2013 for wearing shoes with orange soles, illustrating how strictly the rules are applied.
What the Rules Say
The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) sets detailed guidelines for player attire. The rules require players to wear suitable tennis attire that is almost entirely white; off‑white or cream colours are prohibited. Only a single trim of colour (no wider than one centimetre) is allowed around the neckline and cuffs. Patterns are considered solid colour if the background is not white, and large logos or colourful undergarments are not permitted. Even shoes must be nearly all white. Recent updates allow female players to wear dark undershorts for comfort.
Why Wimbledon Insists on White
Officials argue that the all‑white rule preserves the tournament’s traditions and puts the focus on tennis rather than fashion. The rule is seen as a “great leveller” that ensures players are noticed for their play, not their clothing. Critics view it as overly strict or elitist, but many players appreciate the distinctive look and sense of history it conveys.
Other Wimbledon Traditions
Beyond clothing, Wimbledon is known for traditions that include:
- Strawberries and Cream: Spectators consume thousands of servings of this classic English dessert during the tournament.
- Royal Box: Members of the British royal family and other dignitaries watch matches from a special box on Centre Court.
- “Middle Sunday”: Traditionally a day of rest with no play, though this has been relaxed in recent years to accommodate weather disruptions.
- Ball Boys and Girls: Rigorously trained teams of schoolchildren retrieve balls and maintain order with precision.
Conclusion
Wimbledon’s white clothing rule is more than a dress code—it symbolises the tournament’s commitment to tradition and decorum. Originating from Victorian sensibilities about perspiration and codified in the 1960s, the rule demands that players dress almost entirely in white. While occasionally controversial, the dress code remains a defining feature of Wimbledon, contributing to its charm and timeless identity.