The All England Lawn Tennis Club, London
CNN
Wimbledon Faces Record Heat on Opening Day
Wimbledon marked its hottest opening day on Monday, with players still delivering impressive performances despite the oppressive heat in London.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
Before noon, temperatures at the venue reached 29.7 degrees Celsius (85.5 degrees Fahrenheit), breaking the previous record from 2001 for the warmest opening day in the event’s 147-year history.
Highs Expected
Expected highs for Monday and Tuesday are around 33 to 34 degrees Celsius (approximately 93 degrees Fahrenheit), nearing Wimbledon’s historical high of 35.7 degrees Celsius (96.3 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded on July 1, 2015.
Players Struggle with Heat
The heat posed significant challenges for competitors. Germany’s Eva Lys described the conditions as “really tough,” noting it affected her grip on the racket and emphasized the shared struggle among players.
Heat Rule Implemented
Wimbledon activates its “heat rule” policy when temperatures reach or exceed 30.1 degrees Celsius (86.2 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing players a 10-minute break to hydrate and recuperate during matches.
Fans and Players Feel the Impact
Spectators also faced difficulties, enduring long waits in the sun. Many took precautions against the heat, but complaints about lack of shade and cooling options were common. The UK’s Health Security Agency issued amber alerts indicating health risks due to the rising temperatures.
Relief on the Horizon
Temperatures in London are expected to drop later in the week, with forecasts suggesting sun and potential rain on Wednesday, likely reverting to the traditional British weather many expect during Wimbledon.
