Venus Williams had to change bra mid-match after Wimbledon complaint

Venus Williams had to change her bra mid-Wimbledon match after appearing to flout its historic dress rules back in 2017.

The American sportswoman beat Elise Mertens 7-6 6-4 on Centre Court in their first round clash after breaking tradition by wearing a rule-breaking pink bra.

But risking the wrath of Wimbledon officials and potential punishment, the seven-time singles Grand Slam winner changed the undergarment after a short break.

Williams wasn't at all keen to talk about it after, but an official later stated: "Underwear should be white."

In response to a press conference query, Williams said: "What pink bra? I don’t like talking about bras in press conferences. It’s weird.

"I don’t want to talk about my undergarments. It’s kind of awkward for me. I’ll leave that to you. You can talk about it with your friends. I’m going to pass."

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Official guidelines state: "Any undergarments that either are or can be visible during play (including due to perspiration) must also be completely white except for a single trim of colour no wider than one centimetre (10mm)."

The historic rule is back in the public eye this week after outspoken Aussie Nick Kyrgios said that he would like the chance to play in all black, Daily Star reports.

He said: "I always want to wear all black, obviously. But I don't think it's something that's going to change, I don't know.

"I think it would be cool to allow, like, a black headband or black sweatband. I think it would look cool. Obviously, Wimbledon doesn't really care what looks cool... I don't think it will ever change."

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That opinion isn't a universal one though, with No. 4 ranked Spaniard Paula Badosa saying that she enjoys the tradition.

She said this week: "No, I