Fashion vs Tradition: The history of Wimbledon's all-white controversies

Wimbledon’s all-white dress code, a symbol of its storied tradition, has long stirred controversy. Originally a preference in the 1870s to hide sweat - which was then seen as improper - the all-white attire became mandatory only in 1963.

The shift came after Brazil’s Maria Bueno wore a colorful outfit in 1962, prompting officials to formalize the rule from the next edition. As the only Grand Slam enforcing an all-white requirement, Wimbledon faces ongoing criticism for its strictness and outdated approach, even as it clings to its heritage.

ALSO READ: Wimbledon’s love affair with strawberries & cream since 1877


Tennis icon Andre Agassi famously boycotted the tournament from 1988 to 1990 over its rigid dress rules, before returning to win in 1992. Roger Federer drew attention in 2013 for wearing white shoes with orange soles - quickly banned by officials.

In 2014, Wimbledon tightened its rules further, mandating even visible undergarments be white. Venus Williams was asked to change a pink bra mid-match in 2017, and Nick Kyrgios flouted the code in 2022 with red Air Jordans.

ALSO READ - Wimbledon 2025: Total prize money, live streaming, seedings - All you need to know

In 2023, Wimbledon relaxed its strict dress code, permitting female players to wear darker-colored shorts under their white skirts. The change came in response to growing concerns from players about the discomfort of wearing white during their menstrual cycle.

Yet enforcement remains strict - Ons Jabeur was sent back to the locker room in 2024 for wearing black during warm-up.

For some, the dress code preserves Wimbledon’s tradition; for others, it’s an outdated restriction. The debate between fashion freedom and tradition rolls on.

ALL ENGLAND CLUB RULES FOR CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT

• Competitors must be dressed in suitable tennis attire that is almost entirely white and this applies from the point at which the player enters the court surround.
• White does not include off white or cream.
• There should be no solid mass or panel of colouring. A single trim of colour around the neckline and around the cuff of the sleeves is acceptable but must be no wider than one centimetre (10mm).
• Colour contained within patterns will be measured as if it is a solid mass of colour and should be within the one centimetre (10mm) guide. Logos formed by variations of material or patterns are not acceptable.
• Shorts, skirts and tracksuit bottoms must be completely white except for a single trim of colour down the outside seam no wider than one centimetre (10mm).
• Caps (including the underbill), headbands, bandanas, wristbands and socks must be completely white except for a single trim of colour no wider than one centimetre (10mm).
• Shoes must be almost entirely white. Soles and laces must be completely white. Large manufacturers’ logos are not encouraged. The grass court shoes must adhere to the Grand Slam rules. In particular shoes with pimples around the outside of the toes shall not be permitted. The foxing around the toes must be smooth.
• Any undergarments that either are or can be visible during play (including due to perspiration) must also be completely white except for a single trim of colour no wider than one centimetre (10mm), except female players who are allowed to wear solid, mid/dark-coloured undershorts provided they are no longer than their shorts or skirt.
• Medical supports and equipment should be white if possible but may be colored if absolutely necessary.