At Buckingham Palace, decisions aren't made lightly. Everything is steeped in history, deep-rooted customs, and meticulous protocol. That's why any gesture that implies a change inevitably draws attention, especially if it comes from Charles III.
In recent weeks, an apparently minor detail has caused more commotion than expected. All because of a measure signed by Charles III that, although subtle, breaks with a rule that had gone unquestioned for over one hundred years at Buckingham Palace. The monarch's decision affects one of the most private areas of the palace.
Charles III puts an end to this restriction at Buckingham Palace
For more than a century, the tennis court at Buckingham Palace has been much more than a sports space. It's a space built in 1919, during the reign of King George V. Since then, one rule had been kept unchanged: all players had to wear white.
Now, with Charles III on the throne, that's changed. According to the Sunday Times, the monarch has relaxed this rule, allowing family members and guests to choose their clothing. White is no longer mandatory but simply "preferable."
It's not just any change, even if it might seem so. The white dress code has deep roots in the United Kingdom, tied to Wimbledon and the Victorian era. It was believed that this color helped hide sweat and kept a cleaner appearance during play.
A decision with history... and with some cracks
The court, described by the Royal Collection Trust as the "most exclusive in London," is in the palace gardens, near Hyde Park Corner. Generations of royals, palace staff, and even illustrious tennis players like Fred Perry have used it. The legendary player even played matches there against King George VI, grandfather of the current monarch.
Charles III has never been known for his fondness for tennis. Meanwhile, his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, is well known for her enthusiasm. She's the patron of the Wimbledon tournament and has passed her passion for this sport on to her children. Roger Federer, for instance, has privately coached Prince George.
The rule change doesn't come alone because, according to The Times, the court has needed renovation for years. The surface has bumps and uneven areas, which increases the risk of falls. At least, there won't be any need to worry about getting a white garment dirty because of protocol anymore.
The king has also made adjustments in other areas of the palace. In the heated pool, for example, he decided to lower the water temperature to reduce energy consumption. These measures clearly show a willingness to adapt palace life to new times, without completely losing its essence.
Even if it might seem anecdotal, the decision has important symbolic value. In an institution where every detail matters, giving up a century-old rule is no small thing. Charles III has taken the step, and now there's no turning back.