Wimbledon is set to commence amidst an anticipated record-breaking heatwave in London, with temperatures expected to peak as play begins on Monday. This marks the tournament`s hottest predicted start ever.
The All England Club has confirmed its readiness to handle the heat, which could push temperatures into the mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 35°C) over the first two days of the tournament. A statement from the club highlighted that anticipating adverse weather is a key part of their planning for The Championships, with extensive measures prepared for guests, players, staff, and ball boys and girls.
Forecasters predict Monday`s conditions could surpass the previous record for the hottest start, set at 85°F (29.4°C) in 2001. It might even exceed the overall tournament record of 96.3°F (35.7°C) from 2015, an event where on-court temperatures were significantly higher, leading to incidents like a ball boy collapsing and a player needing medical attention due to dizziness.
Consequently, Wimbledon`s heat rule is likely to be enforced. This rule allows a mandatory 10-minute break if the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) reaches or exceeds 30.1°C (86.2°F). The WBGT, which accounts for ambient temperature, humidity, wind, and sun angle, is measured before play starts and again at 2 PM and 5 PM local time.
The heat break would be applicable after the second set in best-of-three matches and after the third set in best-of-five matches. Players are permitted to leave the court during this interval but are not allowed to receive coaching or medical treatment.
While professional athletes are generally equipped to handle extreme heat, Wimbledon organizers are implementing extra safeguards for the general public and staff.
These measures include increasing the availability of free water refill stations across the grounds, providing real-time weather updates via large screens and the official tournament website, adjusting staff work schedules to reduce heat exposure, and using `shade-mapping` to help attendees find cooler areas.
Following the severe heat expected on Monday and Tuesday, forecasts indicate a significant drop in temperatures later in the week, falling below 80°F (26.7°C), with a possibility of rain showers.
Marcus Bellamy