The Wimbledon Championships is getting underway in a matter of hours as tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz and Barbora Krejčíková hope to defend their singles title over the next fortnight. However, whilst the stakes are high, the temperatures are set to be even higher, with the Met Office predicting a sweltering 33C on the first day of play.
This is hotter than Bangkok, Bridgetown and Barcelona – and will be the warmest recorded opening for the All England Lawn Tennis Club in its 148-year history. Amber warnings have already been issued by the Health Security Agency for many parts of the UK, including the heart of SW19, where thousands of fans are awaiting summer’s biggest tournament.
Between the blistering sun and fast-paced action, conditions on the court (and in the stands) are bound to be tougher than usual. In a statement, organisers said they have “comprehensive plans in place” for guests, players, staff and ball boys and girl amid the predicted adverse weather.
But, can it ever be too hot for Wimbledon?
What is Heat Rule?
The Wimbledon Championships has a little-used Heat Rule that can halt outdoor play if conditions become extreme. It allows for a 10-minute pause between the third and fourth set of men’s matches, or between sets two and three of women’s matches.
Breaks will be granted if the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature rises above 30.1 degrees. This heat stress index takes a number of factors into account, such as air temperature, humidity, , surface temperature, wind speed, sun angle, and cloud cover.
Measurements are taken via a heat stress monitor 30 minutes before the start of play and then again at 2pm and 5pm. If there is a change in the weather and the rule is lifted, any matches already in progress will be completed with the rule in place.
Players are permitted to leave the court during the break, but are unable to receive coaching or medical treatment.
The heat rule was introduced in 1992 and was only used in women’s matches until 2019, when it was expanded to include all singles events.
Wimbledon 7-day forecast, according to the Met Office
- Monday, June 30 – H:33C, L: 21C
- Tuesday, July 1 – H: 34C, L:18C
- Wednesday, July 2 – H: 27C, L: 15C
- Thursday, July 3 – H: 26C, L: 15C
- Friday, July 4 – H: 26C, L: 16C
- Saturday, July 5 – H: 25C, L: 16C
- Sunday, July 6 – H: 25C, L: 15C
The weather experts say the hottest day ever recorded during the tennis tournament came on July 1, 2015, when temperatures soared to 35.7°C at nearby Kew Gardens. A ball boy collapsed due to the heat and Australian player Bernard Tomic required medical attention for dizziness.
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