Matteo Berrettini was stopped from stepping onto Centre Court in his Hugo Boss beige jacket on July 5, 2026, after Wimbledon officials ruled the outfit wasn’t white enough. The Italian, world No. 49, had just defeated 20th seed Arthur Fils 6‑4, 7‑5, 3‑6, 6‑3 in the second round, but his post‑match Instagram post revealed the club’s refusal.
What happened?
Berrettini posted a promotional photo of the jacket – a light‑brown, off‑white blazer – on Instagram before his match. The All England Club’s dress‑code insists on “all‑white” attire for players as soon as they step onto the grass. A tournament official approached the Italian after his win and told him the jacket violated the rule, forcing him to change into a standard white ensemble for the third round.
Why it matters for Matteo Berrettini
The incident highlights the tension between personal branding and Wimbledon’s historic dress standards. Berrettini, 30, is sponsored by Hugo Boss, and the outfit was part of a new campaign. Being forced to abandon it not only disrupted his pre‑match routine but also limited his visibility for the sponsor during a high‑profile Grand Slam.
How other players reacted
Taylor Fritz, the sixth seed, defended the tradition, noting his own white Hugo Boss blazer‑and‑trousers combo has become a ritual. He said the pressure of a full outfit can feel “stupid” if a player loses early, but he respects the rule. Naomi Osaka made headlines for a tulle ivory train and Nike jacket, yet she emphasized the all‑white requirement while celebrating her cultural heritage.
What comes next for Berrettini?
Berrettini advances to face Grigor Dimitrov in the third round, scheduled for July 6, 2026, on Court 2. He will wear the club‑approved white attire, but the episode may influence future sponsor negotiations. Hugo Boss could push for a compromise, but Wimbledon’s board has shown no sign of loosening the dress code.
Is the rule likely to change?
Calls for modernization have grown, especially after high‑profile disputes like this one. Players and fans argue that a strict white‑only policy feels outdated, yet the All England Club maintains it preserves the tournament’s unique aesthetic. Any amendment would require a vote by the club’s committee, which historically moves slowly.
Berrettini’s experience adds another chapter to the ongoing debate about tradition versus individuality on tennis’s most storied stage. Whether the club revisits its policy or continues to enforce it, the Italian will need to adapt his wardrobe for the remainder of Wimbledon.