The White Catsuit Legacy: 7 Shocking Facts About Tennis Star Anne White Today

Decades after she made one of the most unforgettable and controversial fashion statements in sports history, Anne White remains a pivotal figure in the world of tennis. As of late 2025, White is no longer just the former professional player who shocked Wimbledon with an all-white catsuit; she is a dedicated Director of Tennis and a philanthropic board member, actively shaping the next generation of athletes. The story of Anne White is a compelling blend of athletic achievement, boundary-pushing style, and a lasting commitment to the sport that made her famous.

The enduring fascination with Anne White centers on a single moment in 1985, but her career was far more than one controversial outfit. She was a top-ranked player known for her powerful serve and aggressive play. Today, she channels that same competitive energy into coaching and management, proving that her impact on tennis is a continuous journey, not just a historical footnote.

Anne White: The Official Biography and Career Highlights

Anne White is an American former professional tennis player whose career spanned the late 1970s and 1980s. She is best known for her memorable appearance at the 1985 Wimbledon Championships.

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• Full Name: Anne White
• Date of Birth: September 28, 1961
• Age: 64 (as of late 2025)
• Place of Birth: Charleston, West Virginia, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Education: Attended the University of Southern California (USC) for two years.
• Turned Pro: 1981
• Years on Pro Circuit: Eight years
• Career High Singles Ranking: World No. 19
• Career High Doubles Ranking: World No. 9
• Most Famous Incident: Wearing an all-white Lycra catsuit with leg warmers at Wimbledon in 1985.
• Current Role: Director of Tennis at the Beverly Hills Tennis Club.
• Philanthropy: Serves on the Board of The Hollywood Boys and Girls Club.

The Infamous 1985 Wimbledon Catsuit Controversy

The name Anne White is inextricably linked to one of the biggest fashion scandals in tennis history: the 1985 Wimbledon catsuit. This moment remains a powerful case study in the clash between tradition and modern athletic expression.

In 1985, White was scheduled to play her first-round match against fellow American Pam Shriver. The match was suspended due to rain, pushing the completion to the following day.

When White returned, she emerged wearing an outfit that instantly drew gasps and the full attention of the crowd and media: an all-white, form-fitting Lycra catsuit, complete with matching leg warmers.

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The outfit, technically a bodysuit, adhered to Wimbledon's strict "all-white" dress code. However, its skin-tight nature and futuristic look were a radical departure from the traditional tennis attire of the era.

White’s opponent, Pam Shriver, later joked that she was "distracted" by the outfit. The controversy quickly escalated beyond the court, becoming a tabloid sensation.

The tournament referee, Alan Mills, was swift to act. Following the match, which White ultimately lost, he called her in and informed her that she would not be permitted to wear the catsuit again.

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White complied, wearing more traditional attire for her subsequent doubles matches. The incident, however, cemented her place in tennis lore as a pioneer of daring sports fashion, paving the way for future athletes to push boundaries.

Where Is Anne White Now? A Life Dedicated to Tennis and Community

While the catsuit moment defines her past, Anne White’s present is characterized by leadership and a deep commitment to the sport and her community. Her life today reflects the discipline and passion she showed as a professional tennis player.

Director of Tennis at an Exclusive Club

Anne White currently holds a prestigious position as the Director of Tennis at the Beverly Hills Tennis Club. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the club’s tennis programs, managing staff, and mentoring a diverse clientele of players.

This position requires not only technical expertise but also strong leadership and business acumen, highlighting her successful transition from the competitive circuit to sports management. Her hands-on involvement ensures that the club maintains a high standard of coaching and player development.

Philanthropic Efforts and Community Service

Beyond her professional duties, White is actively involved in community service. She serves on the Board of The Hollywood Boys and Girls Club.

This role allows her to use her platform and experience to support youth development programs. Her work with the Boys and Girls Club demonstrates a commitment to giving back and fostering positive opportunities for young people in the Los Angeles area.

A Legacy of Fashion and Free Expression

The 1985 catsuit, manufactured by Nike, was a bold statement that transcended tennis. It sparked a global conversation about dress codes, gender, and personal expression in sports.

Although controversial at the time, White's choice of attire is now often viewed as a precursor to the modern, athletic, and often fashion-forward outfits worn by players like Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Venus Williams. Her decision to wear the jumpsuit challenged the rigid norms of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club and contributed to a slow but steady evolution of tennis fashion.

The incident is a classic example of a player pushing the envelope while technically adhering to the rules, a theme that continues to resurface in major sports tournaments.

Anne White’s Enduring Impact on Tennis Fashion and Culture

The entities surrounding Anne White—from the All England Club to the media sensation she created—all point to an athlete who inadvertently became a cultural icon. Her story is a testament to how one individual's choice can challenge an institution.

Her career rankings, world No. 19 in singles and No. 9 in doubles, are impressive achievements. However, it is the white Lycra jumpsuit that remains her most famous contribution to the sport’s narrative.

Anne White continues to inspire as a figure who stood up to tradition, even if she was asked to change her outfit the next day. Her current roles as a Director of Tennis and a board member underscore a life dedicated to the integrity and future of the game. She proves that a lasting legacy is built not only on athletic prowess but also on the courage to be different.