Wimbledon to risk criticism from players by enforcing Covid-secure hotels as condition of entry into the Championships

Wimbledon to risk criticism from players by enforcing Covid-secure hotels as condition of entry into the Championships

General view of the grounds of The Championships Wimbledon 2013 with Centre Court The Championships Wimbledon 2013 The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Wimbledon Day 2 Tuesday 25/06/2013 Credit: Matthias Hangst / AELTC

After missing out last year due to COVID-19 pandemic, The Championships at Wimbledon will be back as usual this year. But the organizers will risk a backlash from the world’s top tennis stars by making them stay in Covid-secure hotels in central London as a condition for entry into this summer’s Championships.

It has been developed that all players, coaches and umpires will be told they must stay in designated hotels rather than book private accommodation in Wimbledon, which is the preferred option for the vast majority of players. 

A detailed plan and structure for the summer championships will be announced next week.

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For many players, staying in private homes during Wimbledon is as much a part of the event as wearing predominantly white clothing. Not this year, it seems, which will be a big change for the likes of Djokovic, Federer and Nadal.

The oldest tennis event may have to adjust to the ‘new way’ in Covid times

Wimbledon

Wimbledon has always been a tournament full of traditions. It is the oldest tennis tournament and brings its own class in the mix.

From the tennis whites to the ‘strawberry and cream’ or be it staying in private homes for the players, Wimbledon has always been one for its traditions. But one of this tradition may be scrapped this year.

It is hoped that following such stringent protocols will increase the numbers of spectators permitted to attend, although the capacity is still likely to be restricted.

“We are putting in place a variety of infection control measures in line with our aspiration to stage a safe, best-practice and trusted event,” a spokesperson confirmed.

Many players have become accustomed to renting the same house in Wimbledon every year, often for five- figure sums. Roger Federer books out two homes in the same road, and Andy Murray lives nearby in Surrey and usually stays at home during the tournament.

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