Tennis matches are not new to me. I’ve been to the U.S. Open 5 (!) I’ve been to the U.S. Open five (!) What’s the opposite to a humble boast? What’s the opposite of a humble brag? There you go. Tennis is still something I’m a little new to. Even though I have seen a lot of matches, I don’t know the rules. Even if you are not a big sports fan, it’s still magical to watch a sporting event live. It’s a memorable experience. The atmosphere, the drinks and the crowd are all unforgettable.
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When I received an invitation from the official gin sponsors Sipsmith, to attend the famous Wimbledon (aka The Championships), I was thrilled. The Championships is one of (if not THE most) prestigious tennis tournaments in the world. It has been held since 1877. I was eager to find out what the fuss was all about, and enjoy myself while doing it. What can you expect to do at Wimbledon? How do you usually get tickets for Wimbledon? What do you normally wear to Wimbledon? All of these questions were mine. This is a guide for first-timers to Wimbledon, whether you are planning to attend or just curious.
How to get tickets to Wimbledon
You’ll receive a registration invite in September and be able apply for tickets in November. The ballot will begin in January. You can buy tickets to specific matches if you are selected by the ballot. It’s all down to chance, as there are always more ballots than tickets.
Photo: SAMANTHA LEL
Other U.K. clubs may offer tickets. However, the most common way to obtain tickets is by standing in line — just like at a concert. Some people wait overnight. There is only one ticket per person, so everyone must be there. The first people in line get to choose their tickets, which include the largest court, Centre Court. Tickets will be sold out as they move down the line. This is the last ticket, which is the Grounds. You can choose to sit on the grass or find the smaller courts outside that do not require specific tickets. It is still a very prestigious “ticket”, but it is also extremely difficult to obtain. You can also check the resell desk right before each match to see if someone has “returned”, a ticket that you can purchase.
Wimbledon is not as popular as other sporting events. You won’t be able to buy tickets in any other way than the official one. Only Debenture Tickets, which are similar to season-passes, are exempt. The tickets are easily transferable and therefore very expensive. If you can afford it, then go for the gold. There’s an official market for this.
Wimbledon Tennis Matches & Court Access
How to watch tennis literally
The closer you are to the action, the better. All ticket holders — even those in suites — head to Centre Court to watch games from specific seats. The Royal Box is located between sections 201-212 at Centre Court. This section will be reserved for celebrities, including royalty.
Aside from the large courts (Centre No. 1 Court, No. All smaller courts outside are accessible without tickets if you can queue for a seat, or look through the barriers. All those who have access to the Grounds can watch.
What to wear to Wimbledon
I asked this question first, but the internet didn’t have any answers (except for images of Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle). I have been to the event and can confirm that there is no dress code. However, those with more posh experiences (like suites, Centre Court tickets, etc.) dress up, while those who are planning to spend the majority of their day on the lawn tend to dress down.
Photo: SAMANTHA LEL
Wear white, but be careful as it could rain. Avoid short dresses that will fly up in the wind unless you want to have a Marilyn Monroe moment. Treat it as you would an elegant outdoor event. I wore a stretchy but form-fitting dress, while the other attendees in my suite wore summer dresses with jackets and cute trousers. Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking around. This is true even if you are in a suite. You should wear flats or block sandals.
Bag Policy at Wimbledon
Bag policy is not as strict in the US stadiums. However, there are some rules (40cm x30cm x30cm) and quick searches of bags. There are no metal detectors in the stadiums.
Photo: SAMANTHA LEL
What you can’t bring to Wimbledon
You are not allowed, like in most stadiums to bring any sharp objects, hard-sided coolers or bags. Also, tents and camping chairs are not permitted (yes, this is true even if you have to wait overnight). You’re also prohibited from wearing large slogans (especially political ones) and bringing flasks or mugs. However, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks (so lawn picnickers can prepare a complete meal, although there is also food and beverage available on site).
Wimbledon Celebrities: Who Will You See?
The Royals’ Box is again located at the front of the sections 201-212. Anna Wintour was in the box when I went. Cara Delevigne and Sienna Miller also were. Orlando Bloom, Katy Perry Tom Hiddleston Noah Schnapp Jameela Jamil Emma Corrin Freida Pinto and many others have been in attendance so far this year. You’ll see celebrities on the Grounds because there are so many activations (such as Ralph Lauren and Evian).
PHOTO: GETTY/KARWAI TANG/WIREIMAGE
What you’ll drink and eat at Wimbledon
Sipsmith is the official gin of Wimbledon. They’ve created the Sipsmith Strawberry Smash gin, which uses real Wimbledon strawberries grown by Hugh Lowe Farms, in Kent, England. This exclusive grower was chosen to host the Championships. I had a strawberry gin-and-tonic, among other cocktails, and was happy all day. Pimm’s Cup is another option, as it’s a Wimbledon favorite. Champagne and other drinks are also available. Wimbledon has a wide range of drinks, including non-alcoholic ones.
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You can find a wide variety of food on the Grounds. From quick take-out to sit-down restaurants, there are many options. Reservations are required for many of these. Suites also have their own catering service.
