Thousands of tennis enthusiasts camped overnight in Wimbledon Park as the Wimbledon Championships began, hoping to secure tickets for the tournament’s opening day. According to event stewards, more than 9,000 people joined the queue, with many arriving hours ahead or setting up tents to claim their place.

The atmosphere in Wimbledon Park was described as relaxed and festive, with families and groups enjoying picnics, games, and drinks while waiting. Tom Spencer, a 26-year-old civil servant from Finsbury Park, north London, said he and friends started their wait on Sunday afternoon to coincide with his birthday celebration. Spencer characterized the experience as “essentially free camping” in London, noting the lack of shower facilities but otherwise adequate provisions.

Nineteen-year-old student Hannah Turcinova, from the Czech Republic, arrived at the earliest requested time of 2 p.m. on Sunday. She described the overnight experience as pleasant, highlighting the camaraderie among those waiting. “People are just coming around and want to chat. Very lovely. Nobody’s trying to get in front of you,” Turcinova said.

Sam Shepherd, 53, from Penrith, Cumbria, arrived later that afternoon and also chose to stay overnight. She praised the friendly environment but found the early wake-up call from the stewards at 5 a.m. challenging. Shepherd advised future campers to consider a blackout tent to maintain darkness despite the early start.

Brentford chef Jeremy Mangalindan said he was unprepared for the cooler temperatures that set in overnight, following recent warmer weather. He admitted not bringing a jumper and was caught off guard as temperatures dropped below 20°C during the early hours.

Another fan, who declined to give her name, made a last-minute decision to join the queue at 3 a.m., foregoing work to ensure her cousin from Vancouver, a passionate tennis follower, could attend the tournament. Without proper sleeping gear, she and her cousin used mats and blankets on the ground, enduring a chilly night.

The opening day brought disappointment for British fans as well. After Emma Raducanu’s withdrawal the previous night, Jack Draper also pulled out due to an arm injury. Cameron Norrie, who was the only British player seeded in the singles draws, was eliminated in a final-set tiebreak by American qualifier Michael Zheng, further dimming home hopes early in the competition.