This hue is inspired by the unmistakable neon yellow of the modern tennis ball, a color chosen for visibility during televised matches. While tennis balls were once white, the switch to fluorescent yellow began in the 1970s, with Wimbledon officially adopting it in 1986 to make play easier to follow on screen. Technically known as “optic yellow,” the color sits at the edge of yellow and green, depending on the lighting. It’s a hue that’s earned its place on Centre Court.