Tennis is one of the most popular sports in the world and one of the most visible. As a result, the clothing and attire of players is often under intense scrutiny. One of the most controversial aspects of tennis attire is the decision for female players to wear skirts rather than shorts. This article will explore why female players choose to wear skirts in tennis.
History of Female Tennis Attire
Tennis has a long and complicated history when it comes to the clothing worn by female players. Women have been playing tennis since the 19th century, and their clothing choices have changed significantly over the years.
The earliest female players often wore full-length dresses and skirts, while male players wore shorts and trousers. As the sport evolved, women gradually began to wear more form-fitting clothing such as bodices and blouses. By the 1950s, women had begun to wear shorts and skirts of various lengths, including shorts that were just as short as men’s.
The introduction of the mini-skirt in the 1960s further pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable for female players. However, the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) was slow to embrace the mini-skirt, and it was not until the 1970s that it became the norm for female players.
The Appeal of Skirts in Tennis
There are several reasons why female players might choose to wear skirts rather than shorts in tennis. Firstly, skirts can be more comfortable than shorts, particularly in warm weather. Skirts allow a greater range of movement and can be more breathable than shorts.
Moreover, skirts can also be more flattering than shorts. Skirts can accentuate the female form and show off the player’s curves in a more aesthetically pleasing way than shorts. This can be a benefit to female players, as they are often judged on their appearance as much as their ability.
Performance Benefits of Skirts
Contrary to popular belief, there is some evidence to suggest that skirts can provide a performance benefit to female players. Many players argue that skirts are more aerodynamic than shorts and can help to reduce drag when running. This can give players an edge in terms of their speed and agility on the court.
In addition, skirts can be less likely to ride up during intense movement, which can be a particular problem for female players. This can help to ensure that players are able to maintain their focus on the game rather than having to constantly adjust their clothing.
The Role of the WTA
The WTA has played a key role in determining the clothing worn by female players. In the early days of the sport, the WTA imposed strict dress codes on female players, banning anything that was considered too revealing.
However, as the sport has evolved, the WTA has become more relaxed in its approach to female attire. The WTA now allows female players to choose their own clothing, as long as it follows certain guidelines. This has allowed female players to express their own sense of style on the court.
Skirts vs. Shorts
Despite the fact that many female players choose to wear skirts, there are still some who prefer shorts. Some players argue that shorts can provide more freedom of movement, as well as being easier to wash and maintain.
In addition, there is also the issue of personal preference. Some players may simply feel more comfortable in shorts, while others may prefer the look and feel of skirts. Ultimately, the decision of whether to wear a skirt or shorts is down to the individual player.
Skirts and the Media
The media has long been fascinated by female tennis players and their clothing choices. Tennis stars such as Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova have become style icons and their clothing choices have been widely discussed in the press.
The media has often focused on the skirts worn by female players, with some outlets even suggesting that the clothing is designed to be deliberately provocative. This has led to further debate about the role of skirts in tennis and whether they are appropriate for the sport.
The Debate Around Skirts
The debate around skirts in tennis is ongoing and there is no clear consensus on the issue. On the one hand, some argue that skirts can provide a performance benefit and are more comfortable than shorts. On the other hand, there are those who believe that skirts are too revealing and can be distracting for players and spectators alike.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to wear a skirt or shorts is down to the individual player. Some may feel more comfortable in one or the other, while others may simply prefer the look of a skirt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, skirts have long been a part of tennis attire for female players. There are several reasons why female players might choose to wear skirts, including comfort, performance benefits, and personal preference. The debate around skirts in tennis is ongoing, but ultimately it is down to the individual player to decide what they feel most comfortable wearing.