Of course, the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world also has etiquette by which its budding fans must abide. Perhaps what makes it so special is that these rules aren’t written; they’re not in the terms and conditions of your ticket purchase; they are just known. Generation on generation of tennis fans have passed down these unwritten rules, preserving age-old traditions that have been much eroded at many of the other larger tournaments around the world. So what are these unwritten Wimbledon rules of which we speak?
#1 - The Unofficial Official Dress Code
Other than for those lucky few sitting in the Royal Box on Centre Court, there is no official dress code at Wimbledon. But as you walk around the grounds, you might wonder just how many people are sitting in that Royal Box, as the fans here are dressed to impress—no matter where they’re sitting. Even for many of those waiting for hours in the famous queue, their attire isn’t compromised. Tennis fans going to Wimbledon certainly seem to seize the opportunity to pull out their favorite suits and dresses, creating an atmosphere of elegance and royalty.
#2 - The Customary Tradition We All Love
Strawberries and cream. It’s on every fan's list of items to enjoy on the grounds of the All England Lawn Tennis Club. In fact, if you don’t pick up a punnet and argue about how much cream to drown your stawbs in, then are you even really at Wimbledon at all?
#3 - Behave Yourself
The sporting grounds of Wimbledon are some of the best-kept in the world. With gardeners tending to the ground’s greenery night and day, cleaning staff working around the clock, and stewards dressed in pristine suits, there’s no tolerance for any disrespect shown towards the grounds. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself on showcourt seats, beware of your feet; stewards will politely ask for you to remove them from the seat. Also be mindful of your clapping and player support, as it should not be over-the-top or excessive in any way. To Americans, Wimbledon requires behavior that more closely approximates a visit to church than a sporting venue.
#4 - Have A Drink; Just Not Too Many
Much like the sweet treat of strawberries and cream, one could argue that your Wimbledon visit wouldn’t be a full experience without a glass of Pimms. More than 280,000 glasses were served in the summer of 2023, rivaling the famous drink served at the US Open, the Honey Deuce. But unlike its cross-pond partner, the goal here isn’t to see how many special edition US Open cups you can bring home. Since your behavior is on watch—just like at church—overindulgence is discouraged. Keep the number of drinks to a genteel minimum.So for those of you who still have Wimbledon on your bucket list, make sure you remember the unwritten rules for fans before you enter the gates of the All England Lawn Tennis Club. You wouldn’t want to end up needing a confessional on your way home.
Photos by Kyle de Vre
