Wimbledon is the world’s oldest Grand Slam and is considered the most prestigious tournament in the tennis calendar. It takes place on the grass court in London’s SW19. It is the third Grand Slam of the year and generally takes place between late June or early July. Last year, Wimbledon was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When will Wimbledon 2021 start?

The 2021 Wimbledon will begin from Monday, June 28 and will continue till Sunday, July 11. 

Also read: Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic has his mind set on the bigger prize

COVID-19 protocols:

Wimbledon 2021 will see various COVID-19 norms put in place to make the tournament secure for the spectators and players.

“It is with great enthusiasm and excitement that we are putting the finishing touches to our preparation for The Championships this year, and the return of the world’s best players to our grass courts, with ticket-holders in the stands,” Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said. 

Also read: Nick Kyrgios wants to be ‘better player and person’ at Wimbledon

Players will be put in a bubble at the All England Club or their assigned lodgings. They are not allowed to sign autographs or take photos with fans alongside the court.

All tickets will be sold online, and ticket holders will be required to either submit proof of vaccination or a negative test. Only 21,000 spectators will be allowed each day, half of Wimbledon’s capacity.

The food and beverage areas will be open to the public, with proper social distancing protocols in place. Smaller show courts will be able to seat 75% of their capacity. While spectators will have to wear face coverings at venue grounds, they can be seated unmasked at the courts. 

Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic:

World No 1 and current French Open Champion Novak Djokovic will be looking to defend his Wimbledon title and get to 20 Grand Slams. However, eight-time Wimbledon winner Roger Federer will pose a difficult challenge in front of Djokovic. Federer pulled out of the French Open citing knee problems. But on grass, where he is the king, the Swiss will be looking to win his 21st Grand Slam title. 

Who all have pulled out?

Big names like 20-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal, World No 2 Naomi Osaka and the defending Wimbledon champion Simona Halep have pulled out of the tournament. Dominic Thie, Milos Raonic, David Goffin, Stan Wawrinka, Kyle Edmund and Borna Coric are some others on the list.