King Charles breaks MAJOR protocol ahead of Princess Kate Wimbledon outing

In a significant departure from centuries of British sporting tradition, King Charles has relaxed the dress code at Buckingham Palace's tennis court. 

For the first time, players on the Royal Family's outdoor hard court can wear coloured clothing, with tennis whites described as "preferred" but "not essential."

This modernising approach stands in stark contrast to Wimbledon, where the "almost entirely white" dress code remains as rigid as ever. 

The change affects members of the royal family, royal household staff, and their guests who use the palace's exclusive tennis court, constructed in 1919.

The King, known for his formal approach to dressing, wanted to make the tennis court experience more relaxed for staff and guests. This represents a notable shift from traditional royal sporting etiquette. 

The palace court has hosted notable matches throughout its history, including King George VI's matches against Fred Perry and a fundraising match between Björn Borg and John McEnroe in 2000.

The news comes as royal watchers eagerly await Princess Kate's first public appearance since her emotional trip to Colchester Hospital last week. 

Kate is expected to appear during this year's Wimbledon tournament in her role as patron, where she traditionally presents the trophies to both the men's and women's singles champions at the finals.

Wimbledon's dress code has seen only minor adjustments over its 147-year history, with the tournament's commitment to tradition remaining absolute. 

The most significant recent change came in 2023, when the All England Club allowed dark undershorts for women players.