LONDON — The grass court tennis season is one of the most anticipated periods in the sport, offering a unique and fast-paced style of play that contrasts sharply with the clay and hard court seasons. But when exactly does it begin, and how long does it last? BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team breaks it down.
What is the Grass Court Season?
The grass court season is a brief but thrilling segment of the tennis calendar, played on natural grass surfaces. Unlike clay or hard courts, grass courts are faster and lower-bouncing, rewarding players with strong serves, quick reflexes, and aggressive net play. "Grass is the most traditional surface in tennis, but it’s also the most unpredictable," says former Wimbledon champion John McEnroe.
When Does the Grass Court Season Start?
The grass court season typically begins in **mid-June**, right after the conclusion of the French Open (played on clay). The transition from clay to grass is one of the most abrupt in tennis, with players having just a few weeks to adjust. The first tournaments of the season are usually:
- Stuttgart Open (ATP) – Often starts in early June, though some years it begins on grass right after the French Open.
- Rosmalen Grass Court Championships (ATP/WTA) – Held in the Netherlands, usually in the second week of June.
- Queen’s Club Championships (ATP) & Birmingham Classic (WTA) – Key warm-up events before Wimbledon.
Why Is the Grass Season So Short?
Grass courts require meticulous maintenance and are highly weather-dependent. Unlike hard courts, which can last for years, grass courts wear down quickly under match play. "You can’t just leave grass courts out in the rain or overuse them—they’d turn to mud," explains a Wimbledon groundskeeping expert.
The Crown Jewel: Wimbledon
The grass season peaks with **The Championships, Wimbledon**, the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world. Held at the All England Club in London, Wimbledon begins in **late June or early July** and runs for two weeks. "Wimbledon isn’t just a tournament—it’s a tradition," says seven-time champion Serena Williams.
Key facts about Wimbledon’s grass courts:
- 100% perennial ryegrass (since 2001) for better durability.
- Cut to exactly **8mm** in height for optimal play.
- Rebuilt from scratch every year to ensure pristine conditions.
How Long Does the Grass Season Last?
The entire grass court season spans **about five to six weeks**, concluding shortly after Wimbledon. A few smaller tournaments may follow, but most players transition back to hard courts in preparation for the US Open. "It’s a sprint, not a marathon," notes ATP player Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Notable Grass Court Tournaments
While Wimbledon is the highlight, other key tournaments include:
- Halle Open (ATP) – A favorite warm-up for Roger Federer.
- Eastbourne International (ATP/WTA) – Often features top players fine-tuning their grass game.
- Mallorca Championships (ATP) – A newer event gaining popularity.
Conclusion: A Brief but Magical Time
The grass court season may be short, but it’s packed with drama, tradition, and some of the most exciting tennis of the year. From the first serve in Stuttgart to the final point at Wimbledon, it’s a unique spectacle. "Grass court tennis is pure, raw, and beautiful—there’s nothing else like it," says BBC commentator Andrew Castle.
So mark your calendars: the grass court season kicks off in **June**, culminating in Wimbledon by **July**, before the tennis world shifts back to hard courts. It’s a fleeting but unforgettable chapter in the sport.