Why Don't Men Tennis Wear Sleeveless Shirts?

Tennis has been a popular sport for men for years, but why do most male players avoid wearing sleeveless shirts? From amateurs to professionals, the vast majority of male tennis players seem to prefer shirts with sleeves. This article explores the reasons why men tennis players avoid sleeveless shirts and what it could mean for the sport's future.

1. Tradition

Tradition is often the main reason why sports uniforms are designed a certain way, and tennis is no different. Men's tennis has always embraced the classic look of shirts with sleeves, which may be why the majority of players continue to wear them. It's worth noting that sleeveless shirts have been worn by iconic players such as John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg, but it simply hasn't caught on as a popular trend.

2. Comfort

Sleeveless shirts might seem like a better choice for keeping cool on a hot day, but they can actually be less comfortable than their counterparts with sleeves. The fabric can rub against the underarm area, causing irritation or chafing. Additionally, sleeveless shirts can be too revealing, making some players feel less confident on the court.

3. Sponsors

Professional tennis players make a significant amount of money from sponsorships. These sponsors often have a say in what athletes wear during tournaments, especially major ones such as Wimbledon or the US Open. It's possible that particular sponsors simply don't want their athletes to wear sleeveless shirts.

4. Gender Norms

Sleeveless shirts in men's sports can be viewed as a break from gender norms, which is not always seen as a good thing. Male athletes can receive backlash for wearing clothing that is deemed too feminine or not masculine enough. While it's unlikely that male tennis players would receive this kind of criticism for wearing sleeveless shirts, it could be a factor in why most choose not to wear them.

5. Coverage

Tennis is a unique sport that combines fast movements with quick, jerky actions. As such, players need to be confident that their clothing will stay securely in place, providing coverage and allowing full range of motion. Sleeveless shirts, while comfortable for some, can be too loose or too tight, depending on the fabric, which can be distracting during a match.

Conclusion

While sleeveless shirts might seem like a good idea, especially for players who are struggling with overheating on the court, the majority of male tennis players continue to wear shirts with sleeves. Whether it's due to tradition, comfort, or sponsorship deals, sleeveless shirts remain an uncommon choice for men on the court. However, there's nothing to say that this couldn't change in the future as players seek more comfortable and practical uniform choices.