“The Ukrainian flag is allowed but the Palestinian is not”: Zeynep Sonmez explains Palestine pin ban at Wimbledon
WTAFriday, 03 July 2026 at 06:30
Zeynep Sonmez said Wimbledon organisers prevented her from wearing a pin in support of Palestine during this year's Championships, leading her to adopt a watermelon-shaped vibration dampener on her racket instead. The Turkish player explained the situation following her second-round exit, describing discussions with tournament officials over what symbols were permitted on court.
According to Sonmez, organisers refused to allow the Palestine-supporting pin despite conversations with her team before the tournament. She contrasted that decision with the acceptance of other national symbols, saying the discussions ultimately ended with tournament officials maintaining their position.
The world No. 88 concluded one of the strongest Grand Slam performances of her career by reaching the second round before falling 7-5, 6-3 to American Claire Liu. Sonmez was also eliminated in the opening round of the doubles event, where she partnered Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.
While her Wimbledon run came to an end on court, Sonmez's post-match comments shifted attention away from tennis and toward the restrictions surrounding political symbols at the Championships, as she explained why the watermelon icon became part of her equipment throughout the tournament.
"I can't wear the pin" — Sonmez explains watermelon symbol
Speaking with Andolu after her elimination, Sonmez detailed the conversations she had with tournament organisers regarding a Palestine-supporting pin she had previously worn. According to the Turkish player, officials informed her that it would not be permitted during Wimbledon.
"I used to wear a pin. Tournaments no longer allow me to wear it,” the world No. 51 said. “We had a discussion with the organizers because the Ukrainian flag is allowed but the Palestinian is not."
Zeynep Sonmez of Turkey reacts with clenched fist after a point against Leylah Fernandez of Canada during the 49. Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, Stuttgart
She explained that, after being told the pin would not be accepted, she looked for another way to express the same message within the tournament's regulations. "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."
The watermelon has become a widely recognised symbol associated with Palestine because it contains the same colours as the Palestinian flag—red, green, white and black—and has frequently been used in artistic and cultural expressions of solidarity.
Wimbledon exit and reflections on the tournament
Beyond the discussion surrounding the symbol, Sonmez admitted she was disappointed with her level against Claire Liu, acknowledging that she failed to execute the tactical approach her team had prepared for the match.
"I didn't play very well. I couldn't play according to the game plan I wanted. It wasn't a day when I played good tennis or felt the ball well."
The Turkish player added that she made too many simple mistakes during key moments and credited Liu for producing the better performance. Looking ahead, she indicated there would be no major changes to her preparation, with the focus remaining on improving weaker aspects of her game while continuing to develop her strengths.
Sonmez also explained the handwritten notes she regularly reads during changeovers, saying they help her stay composed during high-pressure situations by reminding her of tactical objectives and mental cues.
"Because I can feel stressed or nervous during a match, I write down the things I need to pay attention to before the match so I can read them at those moments. I usually write notes about my opponent or reminders to stay calm mentally and keep my mind clear."
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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