Wimbledon’s on-court staff are game, set and matching in their new Polo Ralph Lauren uniforms, as the American brand introduces outfits which incorporate “more sustainable materials” for 2022.
Now in its 17th year as the Official Outfitter of The Championships, the brand says it is looking for ways to improve the environmental impact of the garments.
The ball boys and girls have been given classic Ralph Lauren polo shirts in striped navy and white, which include some recycled materials. Performance remains priority, however, and stretch, UV protection and moisture-wicking is ensured. They are paired with skorts for girls and shorts for boys, plus logo embroidered navy caps.
On the court edges, line umpires are sporting navy cardigans with striped white and Wimbledon green cuffs. This year, these incorporate COOLMAX® fibres, which is a polyester made entirely from post-consumer recycled resources. It’s known for its techincal properties that allow wearers to cope with hot and cold weather more easily.
The umpires themselves have been provided outfits with quintessential preppy Polo Ralph Lauren appeal: navy blazers come with large white Polo Ralph Lauren logos embroidered on the front pocket, striped blue shirts and ties boasting the Wimbledon emblem.
“We are delighted that all our on-court officials, ball boys and girls will be wearing newly designed uniforms produced by our partner, Polo Ralph Lauren,” says Gus Henderson, the Commercial Director at Wimbledon, in a statement. “It is fantastic to see Polo Ralph Lauren is prioritizing environmental sustainability in the production of the on-court uniforms.”
You can see the styles in action from today until Sunday, 10 July. Play begins at 11am on outside courts, 1pm on No.1 Court and 1.30pm on Centre, as the likes of Novak Djokovic, Emma Raducanu and Serena Williams prepare to take on the tournament.
