Most traditions have been around for a very long time. That is, for the most part, what makes them traditions. One tradition which has stood the test of time since the Victorian era (that’s the mid-to-late-1800s) is of players at Wimbledon wearing all white. The dress code was reportedly due to white showing fewer sweat stains as perspiring was viewed as improper.
The problem is, white can show other stains, particularly if you’re a female and menstruating.
According to Wimbledon’s dress code, competitors must be dressed in suitable tennis attire that is almost entirely white. White does not include off-white or cream, and while a single trim of color around the neckline or cuff of the sleeves is acceptable, it must be no wider than one centimeter.
There has now been an update regarding outfits, following discussions with the Women’s Tennis Association, clothing manufacturers, and medical teams about how to “best to support women and girls competing at The Championships”.
Female athletes will now be permitted to wear mid-to dark-colored undershorts, provided that they are not longer than the player’s shorts or skirt.