Wimbledon 2021: Key questions answered as fans prepare to attend tournament
The 2021 tournament is set to get under way on June 28 at the All England Club.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Wimbledon announced detailed plans for this year’s Championships on Wednesday.
With less than two weeks until the tournament, confirmation was given of ticketing arrangements and what will be expected of spectators.
Here, we answer the key questions.
How can I buy tickets?
The ballot and queue have been sidelined for this year, with all tickets sold online. Anyone wanting to buy tickets must register on the myWimbledon website by midnight on Wednesday. Tickets will go on sale at 1pm on Thursday, but they will be released in batches so there will be different opportunities to purchase them.
Will they be more expensive?
No. Prices are the same as had been announced for the 2020 tournament, which was cancelled.
How many tickets are being sold?
A lot more than had been anticipated. During the first week, capacity will be capped at half of normal levels, so 21,000 people. Centre Court and Court One will both be sold at 50 per cent capacity, with the smaller show courts capped at 75 per cent. During the second week, it is hoped capacity for the two main courts will increase for the fourth round and quarter-finals, with full capacity for the semi-finals and finals.
Are vaccine passports being used?
Yes. Because Wimbledon is part of the Government’s events research programme, anyone attending as a fan will need to either show proof of full vaccination, a negative lateral-flow test or immunity through a recent Covid infection (a positive PCR test in the previous 180 days).
What about masks?
Masks will be required while spectators are moving around the grounds but not when seated.
Is Henman Hill being used?
Yes, spectators will be able to watch the big screen on Henman Hill. The logistics of how to operate the site safely are still being worked out and masks may be required.
Can I get close to the players?
No. To keep players, fans, and everyone at the tournament safe, the players are confined to a minimised risk environment, which means they are only able to spend time at either the All England Club or a designated hotel. Players will be told not to sign autographs or take photos with fans, and access to the practice courts will be restricted.