Roger Federer's Nike shoes created more of a stir than his first-round win over Victor Hanescu. Wimbledon banned Federer's orange-soled shoes on account of a uniform violation, the Daily Telegraph reports.
Wimbledon officials confirmed on Wednesday that Federer was one of several players whose shoes from the opening matches had been banned.
"Players at Wimbledon must be dressed almost entirely in white," a Wimbledon spokeswoman said.
Although some displays of color are permissible, Federer's bright orange soles were considered too flashy.
"The AELTC have requested that Roger change the orange-soled version of his Nike Zoom Vapor 9 Tour LE shoes due to their 'predominantly white' shoe and clothing guidelines," Nike said in a statement. "We are of course happy to comply with this."
The question is what affects, if any, the change of footwear will have on Federer.
Helen Scott Smith of Swiss Regional Radio voiced her concerns.
"We're very worried. We Swiss are very precise," she said, according to the Telegraph. "...Everything for him has to be perfect."
Scott Smith, who has a close relationship to Federer, added, "He's a great champion because he goes into every detail. ... We hope his new tennis shoes will be as efficient."
Scott Smith described the surface of Wimbledon as "greasy and slick." Five players have already withdrawn because of injuries, including Victoria Azarenka, John Isner and Steve Darcis.
Nike will provide Federer with new shoes, but should he sustain an injury at Wimbledon, many may blame the change of footwear.
