Etiquettes of attending Wimbledon

(MENAFN) What exactly does attending Wimbledon demand in terms of etiquette? According to Laura Windsor, a self-proclaimed etiquette expert who advised on the TV show Bridgerton, the event should never simply be called “Wimbledon.” Instead, she insists, it’s proper to refer to it as “the Championships,” emphasizing its status as the oldest and most prestigious lawn tennis tournament in the world. Another acceptable way to mention it is just “the tennis.”

When it comes to behavior, Windsor advises spectators to embody “modesty… That’s our Britishness, isn’t it? We’re prim and proper.” This means avoiding many typical behaviors seen at other sports events. Instead, attendees are expected to act more like they’re attending a theatre performance—keeping conversations quiet and refraining from disruptive actions like using selfie-sticks, which have been banned since 2015. William Hanson, a British etiquette coach and author of Just Good Manners, adds, “anyone who is still using a selfie-stick in 2025 should be monitored closely, anyway.”

Hanson points out that although many enjoy the social atmosphere of Wimbledon, it’s important to remember it is a seated sporting event with specific court-side rules. He advises: “Be punctual, and get in your seat in good time… respect the fact that you can only come and go during a changeover.” Phones should always be on silent.

His advice extends to how fans support the players and officials: “Be sporting with your support, and never cheer errors or mistakes. Respect the silence during play, and save clapping and cheering for between points. Avoid disturbing the players by calling out, and remember the umpire's decision is final – never heckle or question line calls.”

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