Tennis star points out concerns with Wimbledon's new underwear rule change
The All England Club has confirmed plans to relax regulations forcing tennis players to wear white underwear during the Wimbledon championships, and former finalist Ons Jabeur has issued a response
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Tom Victor - 18:28, 26 Jun 2023UPDATED10:02, 27 Jun 2023
Former Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur has indicated she is unsure whether she will wear dark undershorts at this year's championship following the relaxation of rules.
The All England Club has confirmed players will no longer be required to wear white undershorts, with the rule change in place for the 2023 edition of the grand slam tournament. The hosts claim the decision has been made following conversations with players on the tour.
Jabeur, who was beaten by Elena Rybakina in the 2022 final in SW19, is seeded sixth as she seeks to reach another final. And, while she appreciates efforts to relieve anxiety, she is unsure what her own decision will be.
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“There is two things. One thing, it’s better definitely not to be paranoid,” the Tunisian said ahead of the Rothesay International tournament at Eastbourne. “And the other thing, everybody will know that you have your period. So I’m not sure which part of it is good.
“I think I don’t think I’m going to wear anything. If all the girls will wear it, I think it will make it better. But I think it’s a great thing that Wimbledon is trying to help women feel more comfortable on the court.”
The rule change was confirmed in 2022, following campaigns to bring it into force. Among those pushing for the change was Judy Murray, tennis coach and mother of British pros Andy and Jamie.
“We are committed to supporting the players and listening to their feedback as to how they can perform at their best,” All England Club CEO Sally Bolton said at the time. "I’m pleased to confirm that, following consultation with players and representatives of several stakeholder groups, the Committee of Management has taken the decision to update the white clothing rule at Wimbledon.
“This means that, from next year, women and girls competing at The Championships will have the option of wearing coloured undershorts if they choose. It is our hope that this rule adjustment will help players focus purely on their performance by relieving a potential source of anxiety.”
The 2023 Wimbledon Championships will begin on July 3 at the All England Club. Defending Wimbledon champion Rybakina - due to be a high seed in SW19 - has pulled out of the warm-up event at Eastbourne as she continues her recovery from a virus, having withdrawn from the French Open through illness.
