Women in professional tennis have been wearing skirts on court for decades. From the iconic pleated skirt worn by Billie Jean King in the 1970s to the modern-day designs worn by Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova, skirts have become a part of the women’s tennis uniform. But why do women have to wear skirts on court? In this article, we’ll explore the history of women’s tennis skirts, the reasons why they are still worn today and how they have evolved over the years.
The History of Women’s Tennis Skirts
The history of women’s tennis skirts dates back to the late 19th century. At the time, the sport was dominated by men and the dress code was strict. Women were expected to wear long skirts and dresses on court, often with a white blouse and a hat. As the sport gained popularity with women, the dress code began to relax and skirts became shorter and looser.
By the 1920s, women’s tennis had become a popular sport and skirts had become an essential part of the on-court attire. Women’s tennis skirts were often pleated and made of light fabrics such as linen and cotton. They were designed to be comfortable and practical, while still being fashionable.
Why Do Women Still Wear Skirts in Tennis?
Today, skirts are still the preferred choice for women in professional tennis. There are several reasons why this is the case. The first is that skirts are considered more comfortable and practical than shorts or pants. They are lightweight, allow for freedom of movement and are designed to keep the player cool in hot weather.
The second reason is that skirts are seen as more feminine and attractive than shorts or pants. Women’s tennis is a highly competitive sport and skirts can help players stand out on court. They also tend to be more eye-catching and draw attention to the players, which can help to promote the sport.
The Evolution of Women’s Tennis Skirts
Over the years, women’s tennis skirts have evolved in design and style. In the 1970s, pleated skirts became popular, with many players opting for bright colors and bold patterns. By the 1980s, skirts had become shorter and tighter, with bold colors and geometric patterns.
In the 1990s, skirts began to get even shorter and more form-fitting. Players such as Anna Kournikova and Martina Hingis popularized the “skort”, which is a combination of a skirt and shorts. Today, skirts are still popular, with many players opting for a more classic look with pleats and a longer length.
The Rules and Regulations of Women’s Tennis Skirts
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) sets out strict rules and regulations regarding the type of clothing worn by professional players. The rules state that skirts must be knee-length or longer and must be made of appropriate fabrics such as cotton and linen. The skirt must also be white or a light color such as pastel.
The ITF also stipulates that players must wear skirts on court during professional tournaments. The rules do not apply to casual matches and players are free to wear shorts or pants if they wish.
The Benefits of Wearing Skirts in Tennis
There are several benefits to wearing skirts in tennis. The first is that skirts are more comfortable than shorts or pants. They are lightweight and allow for freedom of movement, allowing players to move around the court more easily.
The second benefit is that skirts are more attractive than shorts or pants. They can help players to stand out on court and draw attention to the sport. This can help to promote the sport and make it more popular with spectators.
Finally, skirts are more practical than shorts or pants. They are designed to keep the player cool in hot weather and help to keep sweat away from the body. This can help players to stay focused and perform at their best.
The Criticism of Women’s Tennis Skirts
Despite the benefits of wearing skirts in tennis, there has been some criticism of the rule. Some people argue that it is sexist and outdated, and that women should be allowed to wear shorts or pants if they wish. Others argue that it puts players at a disadvantage as skirts can be more difficult to move in than shorts or pants.
The Debate Over Women’s Tennis Skirts
The debate over women’s tennis skirts is ongoing. Some people argue that skirts should be allowed in the sport as they are comfortable, practical and attractive. Others argue that the rule is outdated and that women should be allowed to choose their own attire.
The Future of Women’s Tennis Skirts
The future of women’s tennis skirts is uncertain. The ITF has stated that the rule will remain in place for the foreseeable future, but there is pressure for it to be changed. Some players have called for the introduction of shorts and pants as an option for female players, while others have argued for more relaxed rules on skirt length and color.
Conclusion
Women’s tennis skirts have been a part of the sport for decades. They are seen as more comfortable, practical and attractive than shorts or pants, and they help to promote the sport by drawing attention to the players. The debate over whether women should be allowed to wear skirts or shorts is ongoing, but for now, skirts remain an essential part of the women’s tennis uniform.