Two-Time Champion Petra Kvitova, Badosa Back Wimbledon’s All-White Policy Amid Concerns - UBITENNIS

Two-Time Champion Petra Kvitova, Badosa Back Wimbledon’s All-White Policy Amid Concerns

It is one of the most traditional policies in tennis but should the all-white rule be adjusted to take into account issues experienced by female players?

By Adam Addicott
3 Min Read
Petra Kvitova (CZE) playing against Sloane Stephens (USA) in the first round of the Ladies' Singles on Centre Court at The Championships 2021. Held at The All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon. Day 1 Monday 28/06/2021. Credit: AELTC/Simon Bruty

Petra Kvitova has come out in support of Wimbledon’s policy requiring all players to wear white whilst competing at the championships.

The Czech, who won the title in 2011 and 2014, has spoken in favor of the rule despite some other female players expressing their concerns due to health reasons. Unlike other Grand Slams, Wimbledon has one of the strictest policies in the sport when it comes to clothing. All players participating must wear nearly all-white attire or risk facing a fine if they do not. The policy can be traced back to the Victorian era when at the time it was considered that wearing white showed less sweat. Since then, it has become one of the most prestigious traditions which makes Wimbledon unique.

However, there have been calls by some for changes to be made. Especially for the female players who potentially face the awkward situation of wearing white whilst on their period. In a recent interview with The Times, Canadian Player Rebecca Marino said such a situation is her ‘worst fear.’ Heather Watson and former player Renee Stubbs have also spoken out.

“I know it’s not really comfortable for girls playing in white when they have periods,” Kvitova commented following her 6-1, 7-6(5), win over Ana Bogdan.
“On the other hand, I think that we (as players) can manage it somehow, as well. We do have a lot of options about it, as well. It’s very unusual that you get it (your period) during the match. It can happen, of course.”

Spanish fourth seed Paula Badosa, who will play Kvitova in the third round, was another player to speak about the uniform rule following her comprehensive 6-3, 6-2, win over Irina Bara in the second round on Thursday. It is the third major in a row where she has reached the last 32.

I think it’s nice and it’s traditional. It’s always different. I think grass courts, as well, it’s a different part of the season. It’s nice like that, I think, to play like this. One or two weeks per year, it’s always nice and unique.” She commented.

This year there has been a small adjustment made to the policy with players allowed to wear blue and yellow ribbons in support of Ukraine. 

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