Wimbledon Championships Breaks Its Tradition to Extend Support for Ukrainian Tennis Players

The Wimbledon Championships, one of the most traditionally rich tennis tournaments, with its roots dating back to 1877. The tournament has a set of customs and traditions that have been followed since then. One of them is the white attire. Ever since the first edition of the Championships, it has been a tradition for the players to be in white attire from top to bottom.

However, after 145 years, the officials of the Championships have finally opted to abandon the all-white rule this year. Into its 135th edition, officials at the 2022 Wimbledon Championships recently announced the lifting of the rule. As understood, the rule has been abandoned amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis. The lifting of the strict rule would allow players to show their support for Ukraine by wearing colored symbols.

Players coming in support of Ukraine at the 2022 Wimbledon

Following the announcement, many players have come out in support of Ukraine. Kicking off her Wimbledon campaign yesterday, Iga Swiatek wore a Ukrainian-colored ribbon on her cap during her opening round match against Jana Fett. The ribbon reportedly signifies the player’s unity with Ukraine.

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In addition to Swiatek, Ukrainian players Lesia Tsurenko and Anhelina Kalinina are also expected to wear their country-colored ribbons during their second-round clash against each other today.

Following her first-round win over Jodie Anna Burrage on Monday, Lesia Tsurenko headed for the media interaction. During the interaction, she expressed her wish to wear something to show support for her country. “Can we wear the ribbon on the match?” she questioned the reporters.

The majority of the media people took the question in a sporty way. However, the 33-year-old Ukrainian took no time in explaining herself. Giving reason, she said, “Because today I was not sure. I don’t know with the Wimbledon rules if we can wear the ribbon.”

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Following Wimbledon‘s decision, these three players have taken the lead to show support for Ukraine. However, more players are expected to join hands for Ukraine, as the Wimbledon Championships progresses into the 4th day.