Wimbledon officials have determined that a watermelon symbol displayed on a tennis racket does not breach the tournament's rules against political messaging. The decision was made regarding Turkish player Zeynep Sönmez, who used a watermelon-shaped vibration dampener on her racket.
Tournament director Jamie Baker explained that while political messaging that causes disruption is prohibited, the watermelon symbol does not meet this threshold. "We don't think that's meeting the threshold for causing any type of disruption... or worth any punishment," Baker stated.
The watermelon has become a recognized symbol of Palestinian identity, featuring the colors of the Palestinian flag. Sönmez opted to use the symbol on her racket after tournament organizers reportedly barred her from wearing a pro-Palestine pin. She noted a discussion with organizers where the Ukrainian flag's allowance was contrasted with the prohibition of Palestinian symbols. "They ultimately told us they definitely would not allow it. So, I can't wear the pin. I can use the vibration dampener, and they can't object to that," Sönmez told Anadolu Agency.
Sönmez, ranked world No. 51, played with the watermelon symbol during her Wimbledon matches. The situation has raised questions about how Wimbledon distinguishes between permissible and impermissible political symbols.
Earlier in the tournament, Ukrainian player Daria Snigur was seen wearing a Ukrainian flag pin. Baker addressed this by stating that the Ukrainian situation was unique, referencing governmental guidance and international response, and that Wimbledon had provided support to Ukrainian players. He asserted that Sönmez's situation was not comparable.
Sönmez's participation at Wimbledon concluded in the second round of singles play after a loss to Claire Liu. She also competed in the women's doubles.
Sönmez has previously expressed her support for Palestinians, stating in 2024 that it is a sensitive issue for her and that she stands with them, aiming to raise awareness about their suffering. Her stance has received support from Turkey's Minister of Youth and Sports, Osman Askin Bak, who praised her for "holding her conscience, courage, and human values above all else."