In a heartfelt gesture, Wimbledon, the world's most prestigious grand slam tournament, has made a rare exception to its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-players-wear-white-clothes-in-wimbledon-whats-behind-the-all-white-dress-code-rule-colonialism-imperialism-and-more-1751364331647">147-year-old all-white dress code</a> to honour the tragic passing of Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota (28) and his younger brother, Andre Silva (25). The Liverpool and Portugal forward allegedly lost his life in a devastating car crash in Zamora, Spain, on Thursday, July 3. As tributes pour in across the sports fraternity, Wimbledon has allowed players to wear black armbands as a mark of solidarity. Known for its century-old traditions, this is a rare gesture from the All England Club, highlighting the deep shock and sadness felt throughout the sporting community.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-players-wear-white-clothes-in-wimbledon-whats-behind-the-all-white-dress-code-rule-colonialism-imperialism-and-more-1751364331647">What’s behind the Wimbledon all-white dress code rule? Colonialism, imperialism and more</a>&nbsp;Portuguese tennis player Francisco Cabral, who is competing in the men's doubles draw, shared his sorrow following his recent victory over Jamie Murray and Rajeev Ram.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I have seen the very sad news,” said Cabral. “Diogo was a big name, not just in Portugal but across the world. He was a great human being with a wonderful family and three young kids. My thoughts are with them all.” Conversely, Cabral couldn’t find a black armband in time for his last match but has vowed to wear one in his next appearance.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Jota, who recently got married just 11 days before the accident that killed him, leaves behind a rich legacy in football. In five seasons with Liverpool, he played 182 games, scored 65 goals and helped the club win both the Premier League and FA Cup.&nbsp;Earlier, football legend Cristiano Ronaldo took to his social media handle to pay tribute to Diogo Jota. Ronaldo wrote on Instagram, “Just now we were together in the National Team; just now you got married. To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ronaldo and Jota were part of the Portugal team that won their second Nations League title last month.

Jota, who recently got married just 11 days before the accident that killed him, leaves behind a rich legacy in football. In five seasons with Liverpool, he played 182 games, scored 65 goals and helped the club win both the Premier League and FA Cup.

In a heartfelt gesture, Wimbledon, the world's most prestigious grand slam tournament, has made a rare exception to its 147-year-old all-white dress code to honour the tragic passing of Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota (28) and his younger brother, Andre Silva (25). The Liverpool and Portugal forward allegedly lost his life in a devastating car crash in Zamora, Spain, on Thursday, July 3. As tributes pour in across the sports fraternity, Wimbledon has allowed players to wear black armbands as a mark of solidarity. Known for its century-old traditions, this is a rare gesture from the All England Club, highlighting the deep shock and sadness felt throughout the sporting community. Also Read | What’s behind the Wimbledon all-white dress code rule? Colonialism, imperialism and more Portuguese tennis player Francisco Cabral, who is competing in the men's doubles draw, shared his sorrow following his recent victory over Jamie Murray and Rajeev Ram. “I have seen the very sad news,” said Cabral. “Diogo was a big name, not just in Portugal but across the world. He was a great human being with a wonderful family and three young kids. My thoughts are with them all.” Conversely, Cabral couldn’t find a black armband in time for his last match but has vowed to wear one in his next appearance. Meanwhile, Jota, who recently got married just 11 days before the accident that killed him, leaves behind a rich legacy in football. In five seasons with Liverpool, he played 182 games, scored 65 goals and helped the club win both the Premier League and FA Cup. Earlier, football legend Cristiano Ronaldo took to his social media handle to pay tribute to Diogo Jota. Ronaldo wrote on Instagram, “Just now we were together in the National Team; just now you got married. To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.” Meanwhile, Ronaldo and Jota were part of the Portugal team that won their second Nations League title last month.

Jota, who recently got married just 11 days before the accident that killed him, leaves behind a rich legacy in football. In five seasons with Liverpool, he played 182 games, scored 65 goals and helped the club win both the Premier League and FA Cup.

Wimbledon breaks 147-year old tradition to pay tribute to Diogo Jota. Details inside

Whenever you think of the Wimbledon tournament, the images that flash in one's mind are the lush green grass of Centre Court, bowls of strawberries and cream, claps from royals in the Royal Box and players dressed head-to-toe in white. That’s the charm and aura of the world’s oldest and most prestigious Grand Slam.&nbsp;But did you know that in its long and illustrious history, since it began in 1877, there was one occasion when players stepped onto the iconic courts of Wimbledon wearing coloured outfits?&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-players-wear-white-clothes-in-wimbledon-whats-behind-the-all-white-dress-code-rule-colonialism-imperialism-and-more-1751364331647">What’s behind the Wimbledon all-white dress code rule? Colonialism, imperialism and more</a>&nbsp;It happened during the London 2012 Summer Olympics, when the All England Club, for the first and only time, waived its strict all-white dress code. For a few days, the historic venue looked different as players proudly donned their national colours instead of traditional whites.&nbsp;Ian Ritchie, Wimbledon’s Chief Executive at the time, explained the decision to ESPN, “We have been very supportive of the Olympic organisers throughout the process. We hope, to some extent, there will be a different type of audience. It is not a repeat of the Championships. It will be its competition, having its own style, and it will play out in its own way.”&nbsp;The Royal Box, which is usually reserved for British royalty and elite guests, was filled with members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Only 12 out of Wimbledon’s 17 courts were used and the capacity was reduced to 26,000 compared to the usual 40,000. There were no scheduled night sessions, maintaining one of Wimbledon’s unique traditions.&nbsp;The Olympic play began just 20 days after the end of that year’s Wimbledon, with fresh grass laid down. Despite concerns about fan turnout, the Olympic tournament was a success. Interestingly, the 2012 London Olympics also made history by including mixed doubles for the first time in Olympic tennis, increasing the medal count to five.&nbsp;Here’s a look at the Gold medal winners:&nbsp;<ol><li>Men’s Singles: Andy Murray (Great Britain)&nbsp;</li><li>Women’s Singles: Serena Williams (USA)&nbsp;</li><li>Men’s Doubles: Bob and Mike Bryan (USA)</li><li>Women’s Doubles: Serena and Venus Williams (USA)&nbsp;</li><li>Mixed Doubles: Victoria Azarenka and Max Mirnyi (Belarus)</li></ol>

Whenever you think of the Wimbledon tournament, the images that flash in ones mind are the lush green grass of Centre Court, bowls of strawberries and cream, claps from royals in the Royal Box and players dressed head-to-toe in white.

Whenever you think of the Wimbledon tournament, the images that flash in one's mind are the lush green grass of Centre Court, bowls of strawberries and cream, claps from royals in the Royal Box and players dressed head-to-toe in white. That’s the charm and aura of the world’s oldest and most prestigious Grand Slam. But did you know that in its long and illustrious history, since it began in 1877, there was one occasion when players stepped onto the iconic courts of Wimbledon wearing coloured outfits? Also Read | What’s behind the Wimbledon all-white dress code rule? Colonialism, imperialism and more It happened during the London 2012 Summer Olympics, when the All England Club, for the first and only time, waived its strict all-white dress code. For a few days, the historic venue looked different as players proudly donned their national colours instead of traditional whites. Ian Ritchie, Wimbledon’s Chief Executive at the time, explained the decision to ESPN, “We have been very supportive of the Olympic organisers throughout the process. We hope, to some extent, there will be a different type of audience. It is not a repeat of the Championships. It will be its competition, having its own style, and it will play out in its own way.” The Royal Box, which is usually reserved for British royalty and elite guests, was filled with members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Only 12 out of Wimbledon’s 17 courts were used and the capacity was reduced to 26,000 compared to the usual 40,000. There were no scheduled night sessions, maintaining one of Wimbledon’s unique traditions. The Olympic play began just 20 days after the end of that year’s Wimbledon, with fresh grass laid down. Despite concerns about fan turnout, the Olympic tournament was a success. Interestingly, the 2012 London Olympics also made history by including mixed doubles for the first time in Olympic tennis, increasing the medal count to five. Here’s a look at the Gold medal winners: Men’s Singles: Andy Murray (Great Britain) Women’s Singles: Serena Williams (USA) Men’s Doubles: Bob and Mike Bryan (USA) Women’s Doubles: Serena and Venus Williams (USA) Mixed Doubles: Victoria Azarenka and Max Mirnyi (Belarus)

Whenever you think of the Wimbledon tournament, the images that flash in one's mind are the lush green grass of Centre Court, bowls of strawberries and cream, claps from royals in the Royal Box and players dressed head-to-toe in white.

Cast from the Past: The only time players wore non-white kits at Wimbledon court | Know More

Wimbledon is the most prestigious grand slam of all the major tennis tournaments and it has held a special place in the hearts of tennis fans around the globe. However, there’s something quirky about this iconic event. Behind the fresh grass courts and royal atmosphere, Wimbledon still holds onto a tradition with roots that trace back to British imperialism and colonialism: the famous all-white dress code. Players are required to wear all white, from their shirts and shorts to their innerwear and socks.<h2>But what is the reason behind the all-white rule?</h2>&nbsp;The quirky rule wasn’t just created to make the players look decent on the grass court, but it has a historical background that reflects the values of class and status in the 19th century. At that time, England was rooted in Victorian ideals and clothing was a strong indication of social class. The all-white tradition dates back to 1877 when the tournament was first held at the All England Lawn Tennis Club. Back then, only the wealthy elite could afford to wear white clothing, which symbolised cleanliness and the elite class. Conversely, the working class had to wear blue collars, as it was nearly impossible for them to keep their white clothing clean due to their labour-intensive jobs.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-watch-fognini-askes-for-a-alcaraz-signed-tshirt-after-losing-in-five-sets-gesture-wins-million-hearts-1751360313036">Wimbledon 2025: Fognini goes down fighting against Alcaraz but his gesture wins a million hearts - WATCH</a>&nbsp;Also, the tournament organisers were keen to separate the world of tennis from the manual labour who used to sweat throughout the course of day. White clothing also had a practical reason: it helped hide sweat stains, which were considered improper and unacceptable at that time. The heat of London summers often caused players to sweat heavily during long matches and wearing white was considered the best way to mask it.&nbsp;Over the years, players have adhered to this rule, from their hats and headbands to their shoes and socks. But this strict enforcement has sparked controversy on more than one occasion.<h2>Controversies regarding Wimbledon rule</h2><ol><li>One of the most memorable incidents occurred in 2013 when Roger Federer, the ‘King of Grass’ himself, wore white shoes with bright orange soles. Despite following the spirit of the dress code, the soles of his shoes were considered a violation of the rule and he was asked to change them.</li><li>Serena Williams also faced backlash in 2010 when she wore red undershorts beneath her white dress as a tribute to the tournament’s beloved strawberries and cream. At that time, the rule regarding coloured undershorts wasn’t enforced.</li><li>In 2017, Williams was once again caught in the controversy when her pink-coloured bra straps were visible. She was asked to change mid-match, further sparking debate over the fairness of the dress code.</li></ol>However, in 2023, Wimbledon made a significant shift in the dress code. After much criticism from female players, especially during their menstrual cycles, the tournament finally allowed women to wear dark-coloured undershorts beneath their white skirts or shorts.

The quirky rule wasn’t just created to make the players look decent on the grass court, but it has a historical background that reflects the values of class and status in the 19th century. 

Wimbledon is the most prestigious grand slam of all the major tennis tournaments and it has held a special place in the hearts of tennis fans around the globe. However, there’s something quirky about this iconic event. Behind the fresh grass courts and royal atmosphere, Wimbledon still holds onto a tradition with roots that trace back to British imperialism and colonialism: the famous all-white dress code. Players are required to wear all white, from their shirts and shorts to their innerwear and socks. But what is the reason behind the all-white rule? The quirky rule wasn’t just created to make the players look decent on the grass court, but it has a historical background that reflects the values of class and status in the 19th century. At that time, England was rooted in Victorian ideals and clothing was a strong indication of social class. The all-white tradition dates back to 1877 when the tournament was first held at the All England Lawn Tennis Club. Back then, only the wealthy elite could afford to wear white clothing, which symbolised cleanliness and the elite class. Conversely, the working class had to wear blue collars, as it was nearly impossible for them to keep their white clothing clean due to their labour-intensive jobs. Also Read | Wimbledon 2025: Fognini goes down fighting against Alcaraz but his gesture wins a million hearts - WATCH Also, the tournament organisers were keen to separate the world of tennis from the manual labour who used to sweat throughout the course of day. White clothing also had a practical reason: it helped hide sweat stains, which were considered improper and unacceptable at that time. The heat of London summers often caused players to sweat heavily during long matches and wearing white was considered the best way to mask it. Over the years, players have adhered to this rule, from their hats and headbands to their shoes and socks. But this strict enforcement has sparked controversy on more than one occasion. Controversies regarding Wimbledon rule One of the most memorable incidents occurred in 2013 when Roger Federer, the ‘King of Grass’ himself, wore white shoes with bright orange soles. Despite following the spirit of the dress code, the soles of his shoes were considered a violation of the rule and he was asked to change them. Serena Williams also faced backlash in 2010 when she wore red undershorts beneath her white dress as a tribute to the tournament’s beloved strawberries and cream. At that time, the rule regarding coloured undershorts wasn’t enforced. In 2017, Williams was once again caught in the controversy when her pink-coloured bra straps were visible. She was asked to change mid-match, further sparking debate over the fairness of the dress code. However, in 2023, Wimbledon made a significant shift in the dress code. After much criticism from female players, especially during their menstrual cycles, the tournament finally allowed women to wear dark-coloured undershorts beneath their white skirts or shorts.

The quirky rule wasn’t just created to make the players look decent on the grass court, but it has a historical background that reflects the values of class and status in the 19th century.&nbsp;

What’s behind the Wimbledon all-white dress code rule? Colonialism, imperialism and more

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Wimbledon breaks 147-year old tradition to pay tribute to Diogo Jota. Details inside

Cast from the Past: The only time players wore non-white kits at Wimbledon court

What’s behind the Wimbledon all-white dress code rule?