The traditions of Wimbledon

The traditions of Wimbledon 

Wimbledon Tennis: for many tennis fans, it's the highlight of the year. It's the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, known not only for its high level of tennis but also for its traditions and unique atmosphere. From the beautiful grass courts in London to the dress code at Wimbledon, this Grand Slam is steeped in the history and etiquette that make it so special. Reason enough for Sjeng Sports to highlight some of these traditions, such as the Wimbledon whites and strawberries and cream. 

The grass: the heart of Wimbledon 

Wimbledon is the only Grand Slam tournament still played on grass. The impeccably maintained grass courts give the game a unique character and also demand a special playing style from the tennis players. The grass makes the game "faster" and creates surprising ball movements, adding extra challenge and excitement to the matches. Court maintenance is a science in itself, especially during Wimbledon events that experience heavy rainfall. However, the extensive and experienced team of groundsmen always ensures that the grass is in top condition. 

The dress code at Wimbledon: mandatory white tennis attire 

One of the tournament's most distinctive aspects is Wimbledon's strict dress code for players. When you think of Wimbledon attire, you naturally think of white. Since 1963, all players have been required to wear all-white clothing during their matches. This "Wimbledon white dress rule" was established to maintain the tournament's traditional and classic look. The Wimbledon attire is not only a symbol of tradition but also demonstrates respect for the sport. Players can be disqualified if they fail to adhere to the Wimbledon dress code, demonstrating how seriously the tournament takes this rule. 

Strawberries with whipped cream since 1877 

Besides the white Wimbledon attire, strawberries and whipped cream are also a true symbol of Wimbledon. Enjoying fresh strawberries with whipped cream is one of Wimbledon's most beloved traditions. Since the tournament's inception in 1877, this delicacy has been a favorite among visitors. Each year, more than 28,000 kilograms of strawberries and over 10,000 liters of whipped cream are consumed during the tournament. In London, the combination of strawberries and whipped cream has become a symbol of the summery elegance that makes Wimbledon tennis so unique. 

The Centre Court as a historical place 

Wimbledon's Centre Court is one of the most iconic venues in the world of sport. With a capacity of nearly 15,000 spectators and its famous retractable roof, it offers the perfect setting for the exciting matches that take place there. The atmosphere on Centre Court, known for its green stands and the Royal Box, exudes history and grandeur. Speaking of the Royal Box, the presence of the British Royal Family is also a tradition that distinguishes Wimbledon from other tournaments. Since the tournament's inception, members of the Royal Family have regularly attended the matches, often sitting in the special Royal Box on Centre Court. This royal presence adds an extra touch of prestige to the tournament and attracts worldwide attention. 

Henman Hill 

The large grassy hill outside Wimbledon's Centre Court, where many people watch Wimbledon tennis, is known as Henman Hill. This spot was named after British tennis player Tim Henman, who was popular in the 1990s and early 2000s. In recent years, it has also been called Murray Mound, in tribute to British tennis player Andy Murray, who won Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016. Henman Hill, or Murray Mound, is a popular spot for fans who don't have tickets for the main stand but still want to watch the matches on large screens. The many visitors who gather on Henman Hill daily have earned it a reputation for being unique, welcoming, and vibrant. 

The invisible heroes: the ball boys and girls 

Wimbledon's ball boys and girls play a crucial role in the smooth running of the tournament. Their professional and unobtrusive presence ensures that matches run smoothly. These young "helpers" undergo rigorous training and a careful selection process to ensure they meet Wimbledon's high standards. 

Get your own Wimbledon white clothing at Sjeng Sports 

After reading about all the Wimbledon traditions, would you like to play a game of tennis in a real Wimbledon outfit? Then get your Wimbledon whites at Sjeng Sports, which has an extensive collection of white tennis clothing in stock! Whether you're looking for shorts , a dress , or a nice polo shirt : at Sjeng Sports, you'll find everything you need to look as stylish on court as the pros! Our high-quality materials and modern designs ensure that you can play tennis not only stylishly but also comfortably.