LONDON — The 2026 Wimbledon Championships began on Monday at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, with warm conditions prompting heat-management measures. Organisers confirmed the tournament would run for a fortnight.

The All England Club activated its hot-weather rule for singles matches, permitting a 10-minute break when the heat-stress index exceeded a set threshold. Ground staff prepared shaded areas and additional water stations after forecasters predicted high temperatures across south-west London during the opening days.

Traditional features of the Championships returned, including strawberries and cream, which the club had priced ahead of the event. Queues formed early outside the gates as spectators sought entry to the grounds and the unreserved seating offered through the famous Wimbledon Queue.

The Lawn Tennis Association and tournament officials anticipated record attendance over the opening week, with several British players drawn into the singles fields. Organisers urged ticket holders to bring sun protection and stay hydrated during play.

Defending champions and leading seeds were due on court through the week, with the men's and women's finals scheduled for the second weekend in July on Centre Court.