Wimbledon prepares for record heatwave: The tournament heats up

Wimbledon Prepares for a Scorching Start

London is facing a heatwave that could mark the hottest start in Wimbledon history. Forecasts indicate that temperatures will peak just as the tournament begins on Monday. The All England Club has issued a statement assuring that it is prepared to deal with the high temperatures, which could exceed 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit) during the first two days of the Grand Slam.

“Adverse weather conditions are a key consideration in our planning for the championships, and we are prepared for the expected heat, with comprehensive plans for guests, players, staff and ball boys,” the club stated.

All England Club

The previous temperature record for the start of the tournament was set in 2001, with 29.4 degrees Celsius (85 degrees Fahrenheit). The heat wave forecast for Monday could even surpass the tournament record of 35.7 degrees Celsius (96.3 degrees Fahrenheit), recorded in 2015. On that occasion, the temperatures on the court were significantly higher, causing a ball boy to faint and Bernard Tomic to need medical attention due to dizziness. The Wimbledon heat rule is likely to apply, allowing a 10-minute break in the game when the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) reaches or exceeds 30.1 degrees Celsius (86.2 degrees Fahrenheit). The WBGT, which will be measured before the start of the game and then at 2 and 5 p.m. local time, considers several factors, including ambient temperature, humidity, wind, and the angle of the sun. This rule would apply after the second set in best-of-three set matches and after the third set in best-of-five set matches. Players could leave the court during the break, but they would not be allowed to receive instructions from their coach or medical treatment. Although elite players will likely be able to withstand the expected heat, Wimbledon organizers are taking precautions to protect the general public and staff, including the ball boys and girls. More free water refill stations will be provided throughout the venue. After the extreme temperatures on Monday and Tuesday, temperatures are expected to drop below 26.6 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) for the rest of the week, with some rain likely.