Why Do Players Wear White at Wimbledon? Inside the Tournament’s Strict Dress Code

Wimbledon, the renowned tennis tournament, is well-known not only for its rich history but also for its strict all-white dress code, a tradition that harks back to the event’s Victorian origins. Every year, players don their pristine whites as they compete on the hallowed grass courts, adhering to regulations that have evolved since the tournament’s inception in 1877.

At the heart of this dress code is a dedication to maintaining a specific aesthetic. In the late 19th century, the sight of sweat stains on darker clothing was deemed inappropriate. As a result, players opted for white outfits to minimise this visibility. The official guidelines stipulate that participants must wear almost entirely white clothing, including tracksuits and sweaters, during matches and practice sessions. While there are allowances for a dash of colour, this must not exceed one centimetre in width on necklines or sleeve cuffs.

Despite the rigid rules, the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (AELTC), which organises the tournament, has introduced amendments to accommodate modern realities. Notably, in 2022, female players were granted permission to wear dark-coloured undershorts, a change aimed at alleviating concerns during menstruation. This adjustment was lauded by players who expressed relief at being able to perform without added anxiety related to their attire.

Wimbledon’s dress code has also opened its doors to support significant causes over the years. Players have been granted permission to wear colours that represent solidarity, such as blue and yellow ribbons in support of Ukraine in 2022, and black armbands to honour tragic events, including the death of Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota in 2025.

While there are specific guidelines in place, breaking the dress code can lead to immediate consequences, with players often required to change their outfits on the spot. Notably, in the 1950s, American player Karol Fageros was banned from competing after she wore gold undergarments. However, she was allowed to return once she complied by wearing lace over her attire.

Instances of dress code violations have become somewhat notorious in Wimbledon’s history. For example, during a match in 2017, Venus Williams drew attention when a pink bra strap became visible beneath her white outfit, prompting speculation about whether she had been asked to change mid-match. In another incident, Roger Federer faced repercussions for donning limited-edition orange-soled shoes, while Nick Kyrgios caused a stir by wearing red and white trainers before switching to compliant footwear.

Interestingly, not all players have bent the rules in a conventional manner. Andre Agassi famously boycotted the all-white requirement in the late ’80s and early ’90s, only to return to the competition dressed in white the following decade. Agassi has openly questioned the rationale behind such arbitrary regulations, illustrating the tension between individual expression and tradition at Wimbledon.

Innovative compliance with the dress code has been exemplified by players like Naomi Osaka. At the recent 2026 championships, she made headlines for her stunning full-length dress, inspired by traditional Japanese kimonos. The dress included intricate designs and honours her cultural heritage while remaining within the confines of the all-white rule. Osaka’s approach showcases how athletes can blend personal style with longstanding traditions.

The Wimbledon tournament continues to capture the imagination of tennis fans around the globe, not just with its thrilling matches, but with the blend of tradition and contemporary flair evident in players’ attire. The commitment to the all-white dress code, while modified on occasion, remains a hallmark of the tournament’s identity, serving as a nostalgic reminder of its storied past as well as an opportunity for athletes to express their individuality within its structured framework. As the tournament progresses, it will be intriguing to see how players navigate these guidelines while continuing to push the boundaries of their personal expression.