Wimbledon officials have determined that a watermelon symbol displayed on a tennis racket does not violate the tournament's policy against political messaging. The All England Club stated that the symbol, widely associated with Palestine, did not meet the threshold for punishment or disruption.
Tournament director Jamie Baker explained the decision, saying, "We don't allow any kind of political messaging from players on court, certainly that caused any type of disruption. That has been consistent across the rules for a long time. But in terms of the watermelon, we don't think that's meeting the threshold for causing any type of disruption... or worth any punishment."
The clarification follows statements from 24-year-old Turkish player Zeynep Sönmez, who reportedly switched from wearing a pro-Palestine pin to using the watermelon symbol on her racket after discussions with organizers. Sönmez indicated that while pins were disallowed, the vibration dampener was permitted. The watermelon symbol, featuring the colors red, green, white, and black, is recognized as a symbol of Palestinian identity.
Sönmez was quoted as saying, "Tournaments no longer allow me to wear it. We had a discussion with the organisers because the Ukrainian flag is allowed but the Palestinian is not. 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. That's why I put the watermelon symbol on my racket."
This ruling raises questions about how Wimbledon distinguishes between permitted and prohibited symbols. Earlier in the tournament, Ukrainian player Daria Snigur was seen wearing a Ukrainian flag pin on her dress. Baker clarified that the Ukrainian situation was unique, influenced by government guidance and international response, and that support had been provided to Ukrainian players.
Sönmez's participation in Wimbledon concluded in the second round of the singles competition. She also competed in the women's doubles.
Wimbledon is known for its strict dress code, requiring players to wear predominantly white attire. However, exceptions have been made in the past, such as allowing black ribbons for players in exceptional circumstances, including Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina following the bombing of a children's hospital in Kyiv.
Sönmez has previously expressed her support for Palestinians, stating, "People in Palestine are suffering. I see the videos and photos and feel that there's not so much we can do. But we can always do our best... I want everyone to know that I'm standing with them."
Her stance received backing from Turkey's Minister of Youth and Sports, Osman Askin Bak, who praised Sönmez for her "conscience, courage, and human values" and for not remaining silent in the face of the "humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Palestine."