Wimbledon is not just a tennis tournament; it is a cultural institution that has a rich history and a unique tradition. It is the oldest tennis tournament in the world, dating back to 1877. It is also the only Grand Slam tournament that is still played on grass, which is considered the original surface of tennis. Wimbledon has witnessed some of the greatest matches and moments in tennis history, as well as some of the most iconic players and personalities. It has also maintained distinctive features that make it stand out from other tournaments. Here are some of the history and traditions of Wimbledon that makes it so special.

The Dress Code

One of the most distinctive features of Wimbledon is the dress code, which applies to both players and spectators. Players are required to wear predominantly white clothing and shoes, with only a minimal amount of color allowed. This rule dates back to the 19th century when tennis was considered a genteel sport and white was seen as a symbol of purity and elegance. Spectators, especially those in the Royal Box, are also expected to dress smartly and appropriately, with men wearing jackets and ties and women wearing dresses or skirts, but the dress code for female players is relaxed this year. The dress code adds a touch of class and tradition to the tournament, as well as creates a contrast between the green grass and the white outfits.

The Strawberries and Cream

Another tradition synonymous with Wimbledon is the strawberries and cream that are served as a snack during the tournament. The origin of this tradition is unclear, but it dates back to the Victorian era when strawberries were a rare and expensive delicacy that coincided with the tennis season. The cream was added to enhance the flavor and texture of the fruit. Today, strawberries and cream are a staple of Wimbledon, with over 20 tons of strawberries and 7,000 liters of cream consumed every year. The snack is also a symbol of the British summer and a treat for fans who enjoy watching tennis.

The Queue

One of the most remarkable aspects of Wimbledon is the queue that forms outside the grounds every day of the tournament. Thousands of fans line up for hours, sometimes overnight, to get a chance to buy one of the limited numbers of tickets available for each day’s play. The queue is a testament to the popularity and passion of Wimbledon, as well as a social experience for the fans who share their enthusiasm and excitement. The queue is also well-organized and regulated by a code of conduct that ensures fairness and order. The queue is a part of Wimbledon’s culture and a rite of passage for many tennis lovers.

The Royal Patronage

Wimbledon has a long and close relationship with the British monarchy, dating back to 1907 when King Edward VII became its first patron. Since then, every reigning monarch has been a patron or president of the All England Club, and many members of the royal family have attended the tournament over the years. The most notable royal visitor is Queen Elizabeth II, who has attended Wimbledon four times, most recently in 2010. The presence of royalty adds a sense of prestige and honor to Wimbledon, as well as creates some memorable moments for the players and fans.

The Trophies

The trophies awarded to the winners of Wimbledon are some of the most coveted and iconic in sports. The men’s singles champion receives a silver gilt cup that was first presented in 1887. The women’s singles champion receives a silver salver that was first presented in 1886. Both trophies have the names of all the previous champions engraved on their plinths. The doubles champions get silver challenge cups that were first presented in 1884 for men and 1913 for women. The mixed doubles champions receive silver challenge cups that were first presented in 1919 for men and in 1921 for women. The trophies represent the history and glory of Wimbledon, as well as the achievement and pride of the winners. 

The Best Players to Watch at Wimbledon 2023

Wimbledon 2023 is just around the corner, and tennis fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the most prestigious tournament in the world. The grass courts of the All England Club will host some of the best players in the game, as well as some newcomers who are ready to make their mark. Here are some of the players to watch, as well as their chances of lifting the coveted trophy.

Men’s Singles: Novak Djokovic

The defending champion and world number one is the clear favorite to win his sixth Wimbledon title and his 22nd Grand Slam overall. The Serbian star has dominated the grass court season, winning four consecutive Wimbledon titles from 2019 to 2022. He has also reached the final in seven of his last eight appearances at the All-England Club. Djokovic is a master of all surfaces, but he is lethal on grass, where he can use his powerful serve, precise groundstrokes, and exceptional movement to outplay his opponents. He will face tough competition, but he is still the man to beat at Wimbledon 2023.

Felix Auger-Aliassime: The Canadian Sensation

Felix Auger-Aliassime is a young and talented tennis player from Canada who has been impressing the tennis world since he was a teenager. He has a powerful serve and a strong forehand that can help him dominate on grass courts, where he reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in 2021². He has also been working with Toni Nadal, Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach, which could give him an edge over his opponents.

Matteo Berrettini: The Italian Powerhouse

Matteo Berrettini is an Italian tennis player who has been steadily improving over the past few years. He has a big serve and a powerful forehand that can help him win points quickly on grass courts, where he reached the final of Wimbledon in 2021, losing to Novak Djokovic. He also won two ATP titles in 2022, which shows that he is in good form and ready to challenge for more trophies.

Daniil Medvedev: The Russian Machine

Daniil Medvedev is a Russian tennis player who has been one of the most consistent players on tour over the past few years. He has a solid all-around game that can help him succeed on any surface, including grass, where he reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in 2021. He also won his first Grand Slam title at the US Open in 2021, which shows he has what it takes to win at the highest level and compete with the best.

Alexander Zverev: The German Giant

Alexander Zverev is a German tennis player who has been one of the top players on tour for several years. He has a big serve and a powerful forehand that can help him dominate on grass courts, where he reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in 2017 and 2018. He also won his first Grand Slam title at the US Open in 2020, which shows that he can perform well on the biggest stages and overcome pressure.

Stefanos Tsitsipas: The Greek Warrior

Stefanos Tsitsipas is a Greek tennis player who has been one of the most exciting players on tour over the past few years. He has an aggressive playing style that can help him dominate on grass courts, where he reached the semifinals of Wimbledon in 2021. He also won his first Grand Slam title at the French Open in 2022, which shows that he can adapt to different conditions and beat anyone on his day.

Wimbledon 2023 promises to be another exciting and memorable edition of the world’s greatest tennis tournament. You will not regret being part of Wimbledon 2023. It is an event that every tennis fan should experience at least once in their lifetime. So don’t miss this opportunity and book your tickets now at Seatsnet. You won’t regret it!