The Dos and Don’ts in Wimbledon

Have You Got Your Tickets for the Wimbledon Championships Yet? The Wimbledon Championships—the world’s most prestigious tennis tournament—run from July 1st to 14th. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of stars like Emma Raducanu or Carlos Alcaraz chasing the Grand Slam title, you’ll love experiencing this iconic, quintessentially British summer event. Let’s dive into the Dos and Don’ts in Wimbledon, shall we?

The historic tennis tournament dates back to the 1800s and has maintained most rules since its beginning. Watch our video about the most interesting facts and traditions of Wimbledon. For example, do you know how many tournaments are played on grass in the world and how high the court grass must be? Where are the balls kept? What should you wear to Wimbledon? Learn this and much more here!

If you are a first-time attendee, you must know that the glamorous event, attended by royals and celebrities, has a strict set of etiquette rules that you must observe. The spectator etiquette is strict for everybody; whether you are on Court Number One, the iconic Centre Court or in the Royal Box, where you must be invited, there are things you simply cannot do during the tournament.

Wimbledon: A Historic Tennis Tradition

Dating back to the late 1800s, Wimbledon is steeped in history and tradition, maintaining many of its original rules and customs. Curious about Wimbledon’s unique quirks? Watch our video exploring fascinating facts and traditions, like how many grass-court tournaments exist worldwide, the precise height of the grass on the courts, where the balls are stored, and what the proper Wimbledon dress code is. Discover all this and more here!

First Time at Wimbledon? Here’s What You Need to Know

This glamorous event, frequented by royalty and celebrities, enforces strict etiquette rules for all spectators. Whether you’re lucky enough to have a seat in the iconic Centre Court, Court Number One, or the exclusive Royal Box (by invitation only), certain behaviours are simply off-limits during matches.

Princess of Wales in 2022 and Elena Rybakina in Wimbledon

Wimbledon Dress Code: What to Wear

For players, the Wimbledon dress code is famously strict—everything must be white, including underwear, to avoid any visible sweat marks.

For spectators, the dress code varies depending on your seat, but always leans towards smart casual or smarter. On Centre and Number One Courts, men typically wear jackets and ties, while T-shirts featuring political slogans or brands are banned. Dirty sneakers, gym wear, cutoff shorts, and large hats are also prohibited. However, chic Panama hats are encouraged to protect you from the sun—unless you’re in the Royal Box, where hats are not permitted.

Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts in Wimbledon

Do:

• Cheer and applaud after points, but avoid clapping at net cords or double faults—that’s considered rude.
• Bring plastic cups and your own champagne—but ensure bottles are uncorked before entering the courts.
• Take photos with the flash off.

Don’t:

• Make noise during rallies—no cheering or clapping, and definitely switch off your cellphone.
• Move around during rallies; only enter or leave your seat when players change sides.
• Bring glass drinking glasses or open corked bottles on show courts.
• Use travel mugs, opaque bottles, or bring spirits.

strawberries and cream

Don’t Miss Wimbledon’s Sweetest Tradition

Be sure to enjoy one of Wimbledon’s most famous treats: strawberries and cream. It’s hard to find strawberries as sweet and fresh anywhere else in the world!

Images @shutterstock and @CommonsWikimedia