The world’s oldest tennis tournament, dating back to 1877, has evolved from its humble beginnings at Worple Road in Wimbledon to become a global spectacle. Here are some quirky and fascinating facts about this iconic event:
1. Tennis Through the Ages
Originally a simple ‘lawn tennis meeting, open to all amateurs,’ Wimbledon has grown to feature various events. Men’s Singles debuted in 1877, with Ladies’ Singles and Men’s Doubles following in 1884 and 1879, respectively. Ladies’ Doubles and Mixed Doubles joined the lineup in 1913.
2. Embracing Technology: VR & AI
In 2023, Wimbledon introduced a VR fan experience, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in matches virtually. Additionally, ‘RoboRef,’ an AI umpire, made its debut, using advanced technology for line calls with incredible accuracy.
3. Record-Breaking Matches
In 2023, two lesser-known players shattered Wimbledon’s longest match record, playing a marathon five-setter lasting 6 hours and 45 minutes, surpassing the epic 2010 Isner-Mahut match.
4. Tennis Balls Galore
Approximately 54,000 tennis balls are used during Wimbledon, meticulously maintained and even stored in refrigerated containers to preserve their quality. Fans can purchase used balls after the tournament for a mere £2.50 per can.
5. Rufus the Hawk
Rufus, a Harris hawk, is a beloved Wimbledon fixture tasked with keeping pigeons away from the courts. With over 10,000 Twitter followers, Rufus briefly went missing in 2012, causing a national stir before his safe return.
6. The Dress Code Saga
Wimbledon’s strict dress code, initially targeting women to avoid visible perspiration, evolved over the years. In 2013, Roger Federer had to change his shoes due to orange soles, highlighting the tournament’s adherence to tradition.
7. Modern Self-Expression
Recent years saw players pushing dress code boundaries with bold and colorful attire, embracing self-expression both on and off the court.
8. Strawberries and Cream Tradition
An iconic Wimbledon tradition, over 23 tonnes of strawberries and 7,000 liters of cream are consumed annually, maintaining its status as a must-have treat for spectators.
9. The Role of Ball Boys and Girls
Selected from local schools, Wimbledon’s ball boys and girls undergo rigorous training, including standing still for at least 3 minutes—a testament to their precision and discipline.
10. Endurance on Display
Matches can extend for hours, even days—the longest being an 11-hour, five-minute epic in 2010, a true test of players’ endurance.
Wimbledon 2024 promises more historic moments from July 1st to 15th. Whether courtside or from your living room, embrace the spirit of this grand tradition that celebrates both athletic prowess and British summer charm.
