Wimbledon Middle Sunday – According to Wayne Arthurs

Written by: Staff on 26th June 2011

Wimbledon Middle Sunday - According to Wayne Arthurs |

Written by Wayne Arthurs

The tradition of the Championships middle Sunday rest day, is just another element that sets this Grand Slam apart from all others.

The Wimbledon grounds become a ghost town. No crowds, no play, no media, no official Wimbledon employees and no strawberries and cream. Only a light tune up for the 16 players lucky enough to be competing in the second week at onsite practice facilities, Aorongi Park.

This great tradition allows everyone involved in the Championships, including the players, to take a collective deep breath before what I believe is the greatest day of the Championships, the round of 16.

The lay day enables reflection on the first week bravados and a great sense of expectation of what is yet to come.

For the potential finalists, the continuity of having day off/day on scheduling is a welcomed relief from the commercial shenanigans of Super Saturday/Sunday at the US Open.

From a player’s perspective walking through the grounds in the middle of the tournament with no crowds to tackle is an experience unique to the Wimbledon Championships and enhances the great aura of this prestigious tournament.

As a player it’s a great chance to reflect on what might be.