Wimbledon: a tradition of strawberries, cream, and centuries of grass
Tennis mania is sweeping the nation, and nowhere is the sport celebrated with such fervent passion as at Wimbledon. Last year’s record-breaking attendance underscores the UK’s unwavering love for this historic tournament.
The all england club: a legacy rooted in croquet
Believe it or not, Wimbledon began as a croquet club! Founded in 1868 by a handful of enthusiasts, the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club initially focused on the mallet-sport. By 1877, tennis had taken hold, and the first Wimbledon competition – “The All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon, propose to hold a lawn tennis meeting” – was announced. Twenty-one players battled the elements, ultimately succumbing to the rain.
Today, Wimbledon stands as the oldest and most prestigious Grand Slam tournament, surpassing even the French, Australian, and U.S. Opens in popularity. It’s a spectacle unlike any other, a collision of tradition and modern sport.
A spectator’s paradise (and a queue!)
Getting into Wimbledon is an experience in itself. Thousands brave famously long queues, fueled by 1.92 million servings of strawberries with cream and 270,000 Pimm’s cups – a truly British indulgence. The atmosphere is electric, a palpable buzz of anticipation that lasts for two glorious weeks.
Grounds for glory: courts and history
The tournament is played on 18 competition courts and 14 practice courts, all meticulously maintained on the Church Road site since 1922. That’s when the club finally moved from Worple Road. During World War II, the facilities suffered significant damage, requiring extensive repairs completed in 1949. The iconic Centre Court, designed by Stanley Peach in 1922 and boasting close to 15,000 seats with a retractable roof added in 2009, remains the centerpiece, while No. 1 Court—built in 1924 and rebuilt in 1997—offers a close second in terms of prestige.
The grass courts, known for their speed, offer a distinctly different game than the clay and acrylic surfaces available. It’s a tradition fiercely guarded and undeniably part of Wimbledon's charm.
A museum of champions
The Wimbledon Museum, housing over 55,000 visitors annually, is a treasure trove of tennis memorabilia. From Arthur Ashe’s personal diary to 1,000 vintage rackets dating back to the 1870s, it’s a journey through the sport's rich history.
Where to watch
Catch the action live in the U.S. on ESPN, or via BBC One and Two in the UK. For a complete schedule, head to the Wimbledon official website.