Novak Djokovic explains why he was given permission to wear a gray strap on his knee despite Wimbledon’s all-white policy

Djokovic is set to face Scotsman Jacob Fearnley in the second round in London.

Novak Djokovic explains why he was given permission to wear a gray strap on his knee despite Wimbledon’s all-white policy

Novak Djokovic (Via Imago)

In his first match since knee surgery after the French Open, Novak Djokovic produced an impressive 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 win over Estonian qualifier Vit Kopriva. During the match, however, fans were interested in more than the action on the court — specifically the Serbian’s gray knee band.

The reason for this was the strict all-white dress code followed at the Wimbledon Championships. According to the tournament’s rulebook, players must dress in a suitable attire that is almost entirely white. This includes shoes and undergarments, except for female players provided they can wear dark or mid-coloured undershots and their skirts are long enough to cover them.

YouTube video

The law also applies to medical equipment like the knee brace that Djokovic was seen wearing. After his first-round win against Kopriva, the former World No. 1 stated that he got permission from the organizers to use it as he could find the same in white color.

FS Video

I did check. I actually just met (the) chairwoman just before walking onto the court. She gave me (the) thumbs up, so it was okay. Of course, we did check in the days prior if we have permission. We’re trying to find a white one, trust me. Yeah, I know it’s not ideal. I like to go all white and I like to respect the rules. But I got the permission. I said to them that I will give our best for (the) next match the white one.

Novak Djokovic said via Daily Express

It remains to be seen if he will be able to procure a white knee brace before his second-round match against Scotsman Jacob Fearnley on Thursday (July 4).

Novak Djokovic admits to taking risk by competing at Wimbledon

Novak Djokovic has admitted that the reason for taking some risk to compete at Wimbledon this year was his love for the tournament. He also admitted that he would have not rushed his comeback after surgery for any other tournament on the ATP tour.

The 37-year-old injured his knee at the French Open and pulled out of the event. An MRI scan revealed that he had torn his meniscus and immediately underwent surgery to address the issue. He beat all odds and expectations to get back to full fitness for the grass Major.

Novak Djokovic via Imago

I think if it was for any other tournament I probably would not have risked it, would not have rushed as much but I just love Wimbledon, love coming back here.

Novak Djokovic said via BBC.

Djokovic is looking to win a record-equalling eighth title at SW19, which will see him go level with Roger Federer. He came very close to doing it last year when he lost to Carlos Alcaraz in the final.

In case you missed it: