A one-piece swimsuit or bikini with a maximum side width of three inches – between these outfits had to beachwomen volleyball players by 2012. Only then were on the part of the world association FIVB short pants or even full body suits are also allowed.
Nevertheless, free choice was not always given. When a tournament was held in Qatar in early 2021, the players were not allowed to play in the usual sports bikini because it is considered offensive there. The German team Karla Borger and Julia Sude then boycotted the tournament and started a worldwide discussion.
Fight for a free choice of clothes
Here we go again: On March 16th, the international one started in Mexico beachvolleyball season. The world series is now called “Volleyball World – Beach Pro Tour“. The teams fight for prize money and world ranking points in three categories. The fight for a liberal dress code, on the other hand, could be over before the start of the season.
The world association reacted to the criticism of the dress code in Qatar last year and finally allowed the players to play in bikinis. According to the official rules, there shouldn’t have been a discussion at all, because for years women athletes have been able to choose between shortslong trousers, long-sleeved or short tops.
The world association emphasizes: “These uniform regulations ensure that our sport is culturally and religiously inclusive. Of course, regardless of their origin, players are free to wear the different types of uniforms according to the regulations.” Only when it comes to color and style is it strongly recommended that couples be consistent.
“It’s about free choice”
Borger, who is also President of the Athletes Germany Association, can neither support the obligation to wear a bikini nor the obligation to wear longer trousers. “It’s about the free decision and in which uniform I feel comfortable”says the 33-year-old, who prepared for the season in Brazil.
For example, the fact that the women there often play in panties, which are not much more material than a thong, is simply part of the physical culture there. “In Germany everyone would probably say: Holla, the forest fairy. But that’s normal there.” For the two-time Olympic participant, the sports bikini is normal, in which she and other players feel comfortable, especially in high temperatures. Despite a lot of bare skin.
Borger has never consciously noticed offensive comments. But if the association has asked to hold the award ceremony in a bikini even at low temperatures – because of the tv-Cameras – didn’t feel right to Borger. “In part I can understand that a bit for marketing reasons. Nevertheless, I have to feel comfortable and like to wear the bikini.”