No underwear rule, no Sue Barker and extra security – what’s new at Wimbledon 2023
The 2023 Wimbledon Championships are upon us with tennis’ iconic grass-court Grand Slam getting underway on Monday. And there’s plenty of change at the All England Club this year with new rules and regulations in place at SW19. Express Sport runs through what’s new…
After 30 years, Sue Barker retired after the final last year with Clare Balding now. BBC commentator Andrew Castle said: “The baton has been passed. Clare is a natural. She knows where the story is and she knows human beings. Her research is fantastic. There is nothing that she doesn’t know.”
Female players no longer have to wear white underwear
Wimbledon’s decision to reverse its ban on coloured underwear has been welcomed by WTA stars. The all-white clothing policy for underwear could cause anxiety or embarrassment for some women if they were on their period.
British No 6 Heather Watson said: “When I heard this I was really happy because last year I went on the pill to stop myself bleeding because I knew we had to wear white under-shorts, and I didn’t want to face any embarrassment. We’re running around sweating, doing the splits on the court.
“When Wimbledon announced that about the under-shorts I was so happy because it makes such a big difference.” Former French Open finalist Coco Gauff added: “I was on my period at Wimbledon last year and it was very stressful. You have the period underwear to help you but it’s still at the back of your mind.”
