Wimbledon is "ready" to face soaring temperatures as the tournament begins, with organizers implementing measures to protect players, staff, and spectators from the heat. The All England Club has announced comprehensive plans to combat the heatwave, including increased water stations, shaded rest areas, real-time weather updates, and a heat rule allowing for extended breaks during matches.
The Met Office has forecast potentially record-breaking temperatures for the first two days of the Grand Slam. Monday is expected to be the hottest opening day in Wimbledon's 147-year history, with temperatures predicted to reach as high as 36 degrees Celsius. This would surpass the previous record of 29.3 degrees Celsius set in 2001. The highest temperature ever recorded during the Wimbledon fortnight was 35.7 degrees Celsius on July 1, 2015.
To mitigate the impact of the heat, the All England Club has implemented a "heat rule" for all singles events in the Qualifying and Main Draw, including Gentlemen's, Ladies', Boys', Girls', Gentlemen's Wheelchair, Ladies' Wheelchair, and Quad Wheelchair Singles. This rule allows for a 10-minute break when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is at or above 30.1 degrees Celsius. The WBGT is a measure that combines air temperature, humidity, and surface temperature. WBGT readings are taken 30 minutes before the start of play and then again at 2 PM and 5 PM local time.
The heat rule will be applied after the second set in best-of-three set matches and after the third set in best-of-five set matches. Players are allowed to leave the court during the break but may not receive coaching or medical treatment. Only one player needs to request the break for the rule to be implemented. The heat rule will not apply to matches played under the roofs or matches carried over to the following day if a certain number of sets have been completed.
Wimbledon officials are also taking precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of spectators, staff, and ball boys and girls. Hydration stations and shaded rest areas are being set up, and match timings may be adjusted to minimize heat exposure. The UK Meteorological Office has issued an amber heat alert, highlighting the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Despite the challenges posed by the heat, Wimbledon 2025 is also notable for its record prize pool of £53.55 million, with the singles champions each earning £3 million, an 11% increase from 2024. The tournament is expected to draw large crowds, with many fans queuing for tickets.
