“Taste like sh*t,” Wimbledon Chief Gardner discloses how Novak Djokovic must feel after strange grass-eating ritual

Meet the dedicated groundsman whose life's work nurtures the All-England Club's famous turf.

“Taste like sh*t,” Wimbledon Chief Gardner discloses how Novak Djokovic must feel after strange grass-eating ritual

Neil Stubley decodes Novak Djokovic habit of eating Wimbledon grass (Images via Daily Mail)

Neil Stubley, the groundsman responsible for maintaining the flawless grass at Wimbledon, is a name that often goes unnoticed amidst the excitement and anticipation of the prestigious tournament. Stubley, aged 54, has dedicated his entire life to the All England Lawn Tennis Club, meticulously nurturing and preserving the renowned turf that has become synonymous with the event.

Neil Stubley‘s journey began decades ago when he first set foot on the meticulously manicured lawns of Wimbledon as a young boy. His unwavering commitment and expertise have made him an integral part of the Wimbledon experience.

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Wimbledon’s Chief Gardner talked about Novak Djokovic‘s habit of eating the grass after winning the title: “He does it every year. So, he’ll eat the practice courts when he arrives. And then, if he gets to the final, he’ll eat from the grass at Centre Court too. (Has Novak Djokovic ever given feedback?) I might ask him this time. Though I definitely wouldn’t want him to say it’s nice and sweet. No not at all,’ he looks worried again. ‘You don’t want a high sugar content because that means there’s a lot of sap, which makes it slippery. So, ideally, I want him to pull a face and say, Eugh, it tastes like s***.’ Yes, that would be a very good sign indeed.”  

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Neil Stubley- The guardian of Wimbledon’s pristine grass

novak djokovic eating wimbledon court grass
Novak Djokovic eating Wimbledon grass (Image via Sports Illustrated)

Long before the tournament commences, Neil Stubley and his team tirelessly prepare the grass courts. Maintaining the grass at Wimbledon requires a delicate balance of science and art. Stubley and his team mow each court daily to a precise height of 8mm, creating an ideal playing surface for the athletes. With the help of a specialized £17,000 mowing machine, Stubley carefully trims the grass, leaving behind a velvety surface that is both visually appealing and conducive to top-level tennis.

The team monitors moisture levels, maintains a meticulous watering schedule, and adjusts the playing surface to counteract any adverse weather conditions. This collaboration guarantees that the grass remains resilient and consistent. During the tournament, Stubley closely observes the wear and tear on the courts, identifying areas that require additional care. He diligently repairs divots and replaces worn patches, ensuring that the playing surface remains pristine even after intense matches. 

As Wimbledon unfolds, it is crucial to recognize the unsung heroes who make the tournament possible. While the world focuses on the tennis stars, Neil Stubley proudly stands as the guardian of Wimbledon’s pristine grass, silently shaping the legacy of this prestigious tournament.

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