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With Wimbledon sadly cancelled this year as with many major sporting events during the pandemic, I thought I would give my musings on the only sporting event that has me fixed to the TV for hours on end.
Despite hopes for a British winner dashed on many a year, SW19 still delivers on thrilling matches and an electric atmosphere.
My favourite things about Wimbledon and how to relive the excitement
You are not guaranteed a ticket, which makes it extra special
Unless money is no object and you are happy to pay for Debenture tickets, then entering the public ballot in the autumn is your best bet. If you happen to be a member of a tennis club then you may get lucky that way as tennis clubs receive an allocation of tickets each year. You are not guaranteed tickets through the ballot as it is drawn at random but it is certainly worth a punt. There is the option to queue and I know we British do queuing very well, but if I can avoid one I will. The prospect of standing in line from dawn with the possibility of only a grounds pass is just not worth it for me, especially as I don’t live in London.
Being close to the action and soaking up the atmosphere
In 2017 I was lucky enough to get front row Centre Court tickets for the Men’s Semi-Finals and saw Andy Murray and Roger Federer play. You couldn’t get any closer to the action without being a line judge.
I didn’t receive any tickets in the ballot the following year but this was going to be hard to beat, and when I did get allocated tickets to purchase in 2019 for Court Number Two, I hesitated. I considered that the tickets were for early on in the tournament so I was still with a high chance of seeing some good players and of course having a great day at this best of tennis events. I decided to go.
Video: Sharapova letting out her well-known screech as she plays
We were treated to four matches including Sloane Stephens, Sam Querrey, Maria Sharapova and John Isner, with great seats and the perfect summer’s day. In fact it was a little too warm at times, as demonstrated by the below strategies, employed by some to avoid the sun.
To at least part-fill some of the void left by no tournament this year, the AELTC are broadcasting ‘The Greatest Championships’ during what would be these two weeks of the Championships. Tune into BBC Two each day to relive some of the greatest ever matches.
Having the best excuse in the world to drink Pimm’s
As if an excuse was ever needed but I do feel while at Wimbledon you may as well go for the full British experience.
This year why not recreate this experience and make your own Pimm’s? You could even pick your own strawberries as I did recently at a local farm, and then enjoy them while watching a match or two on TV.
Celeb-spotting
If you’re walking around the grounds a lot, the chances are you will spot a celebrity or two but if you have Centre Court seats and within view of the Royal Box, you will definitely see some.
Jude Law and Mark Carney
Clare Balding and John McEnroe filming ‘Today at Wimbledon’
Fun Photo Opportunities
Impartial cameraman
….and smile for the camera. You never know, you might be on TV!
Caught on camera – yours truly on the front row in the light blue top and sunglasses
It’s surely the crème de la crème of Grand Slams
I have been to the US Open in New York, which is also a fantastic experience but there is something special about Wimbledon. The US Open is all razzmatazz and spectators can come and go as they please. At SW19 if you go off court you must wait until players are on a break and the same for returning on to court. Although this may mean you miss a bit of the action, it seems much more respectful along with having to be quiet when the game is in play. Players in white, Pimm’s and strawberries all add to this very traditional and iconic event, which is so synonymous with ‘Britishness’. Altogether a more classy affair here, though not to disregard other tournaments – it’s all about watching top tennis after all.
If you don’t manage to get tickets for the next tournament then catching a match or two on an outdoor screen is still something I would recommend. I have enjoyed going down to The Scoop by London Bridge, which they have every summer. For an option ‘Up North’ try Einstein Bierhaus in Liverpool out on their Roof Terrace. Why not even try some of their small plates such as pretzel bread with hummus? However, I warn you their ‘small’ plates are anything but.
Useful tips for attending Wimbledon
- There is no dress code but smart-casual would be a good approach that most people seem to follow. Layers are always useful though, as even with warm weather, you are likely to be there all day and potentially late into the evening. Unlike some other events you are able to bring a decent-sized bag or backpack so you could bring spare clothing. Don’t forget a hat and suncream as you may be exposed to those sunrays for many hours.
- Keep hydrated. There are water fountains around the grounds and several can be found by Court Two, which was very convenient last time as that was where we were seated.
- Bring snacks. There are cafes and restaurants but if you’re anything like me, you don’t want to miss any of the action. This way you can have your cake and eat it.
- Getting there: we took the Tube to Southfields on the District Line and then it is about a twenty minute walk.
Editor note: This post was originally posted in July 2019 but has been revamped and updated for accuracy and relevance.
Maria Sharapova is really fantastic player. She is great and I think that with her retirement the sports will only miss. Her star will shine more after her retirement.
Yes indeed such great achievements and I’m sure you are right. Thanks so much for commenting.