Wimbledon likely to return in 2021 even without fans

Wimbledon will be organised next year even if the Grand Slam tournament has to be staged behind closed doors, reported AFP quoting organisers.

The grass-court championships were cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic for the first time since World War II.

The ongoing pandemic has badly disrupted the tennis championships but the US Open went ahead behind closed doors and the French Open took place in front of only 1,000 fans. 

The All England Club is planning for several scenarios in 2021 — a full-capacity Wimbledon, reduced numbers of fans or holding the tournament with no spectators present.

“Organising the championships in 2021 is our priority and we are actively engaged in scenario-planning to deliver on that priority,” chief executive Sally Bolton told AFP.

A statement issued by Wimbledon read: “Our overriding priority will continue to be the health and safety of all of our stakeholders, in particular our guests, our staff, and our competitors. We are working closely with the relevant government and public health authorities, alongside the rest of the sports industry, to understand the varying challenges and opportunities presented by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.”

The 134th championships will be held from June 28 to July 11, 2021.