LONDON — Wimbledon, the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, is just around the corner. Whether you're a die-hard tennis fan or a casual viewer, you likely have questions about the event. BBC Sport has compiled answers to the top 10 most frequently asked questions about Wimbledon, from its traditions to the latest updates for 2024.
1. When is Wimbledon 2024?
The 2024 Wimbledon Championships will run from Monday, July 1, to Sunday, July 14. The tournament spans two weeks, with the Gentlemen’s Singles Final taking place on the last day. Qualifying rounds will be held the week before, from June 24 to June 27, at the Community Sport Centre in Roehampton.
2. Where is Wimbledon held?
Wimbledon takes place at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) in Wimbledon, London. The venue has been home to the tournament since 1877. The most famous courts include:
- Centre Court – The main show court with a retractable roof.
- No. 1 Court – Also equipped with a retractable roof since 2019.
- No. 2 Court – Known as the "Graveyard of Champions" due to frequent upsets.
3. What is the prize money for Wimbledon 2024?
The total prize fund for 2024 is a record £50 million, up 11.9% from 2023. The winners of the Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Singles will each receive £2.7 million, while first-round losers still take home £60,000.
4. Why do players wear white at Wimbledon?
Wimbledon’s strict all-white dress code dates back to the 19th century, when sweat stains were considered unsightly. The rule states that players must wear "almost entirely white" clothing, with no off-white or cream shades permitted. Even undergarments must comply—tennis legend Roger Federer once joked, "At Wimbledon, you don’t just bring your A-game, you bring your whitest whites."
5. How does the seeding work?
Unlike other Grand Slams, Wimbledon uses a unique seeding formula that considers both ATP/WTA rankings and grass-court performance. The seeding committee adjusts rankings to favor players with strong results on grass, which can lead to surprises. For example, in 2023, Elena Rybakina was seeded No. 3 despite being ranked No. 4 due to her previous Wimbledon title.
6. What’s the deal with strawberries and cream?
A Wimbledon tradition since the 1800s, strawberries and cream are synonymous with the tournament. Over 166,000 servings are consumed each year. The strawberries are sourced from Kent and picked the day before serving. As former champion Martina Navratilova once said, "You haven’t really experienced Wimbledon until you’ve had strawberries and cream on Centre Court."
7. Are Russian and Belarusian players allowed in 2024?
Yes, after a one-year ban in 2022, Russian and Belarusian players returned in 2023 under neutral flags and will do so again in 2024. They must sign declarations condemning the war in Ukraine and cannot receive funding from their governments. World No. 3 Daniil Medvedev and Aryna Sabalenka (2023 semifinalist) are among those competing.
8. What’s new for Wimbledon 2024?
Several updates have been announced:
- Extended play on Middle Sunday – Traditionally a rest day, but now matches will be scheduled.
- Larger video screens – Enhancing the fan experience on the grounds.
- Sustainability efforts – More plant-based food options and reduced plastic use.
9. Who are the defending champions?
The 2023 singles champions were Carlos Alcaraz (dethroning Novak Djokovic in a thrilling final) and Markéta Vondroušová, the first unseeded Ladies’ champion in the Open Era. Both will return to defend their titles, with Djokovic and Iga Świątek among their biggest challengers.
10. How can I watch Wimbledon?
In the UK, BBC holds exclusive rights, with live coverage on BBC One, BBC Two, and BBC iPlayer. For international viewers:
- USA – ESPN and Tennis Channel
- Australia – Nine Network
- Europe – Eurosport
Wimbledon remains a highlight of the sporting calendar, blending tradition with modern competition. Whether you're tuning in for the tennis, the strawberries, or the iconic atmosphere, this year’s Championships promise to deliver unforgettable moments. As seven-time champion Serena Williams once put it, "Wimbledon is where history is made—every point, every match, every year."