Features
A visit to Wimbledon wouldn't be the same without a bit of queueing, and here we compare tips from 1925 and for 2007. You can also read about the unique tennis balls used for the tournament and meet Wimbledon's head groundsman and chief steward.
Interview: Head Groundsman Eddie Seaward
In the "Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Illustrated of 1925", Chas. A Voigt suggests that lawn tennis can only be played properly in England. This is because “on the Continent of Europe, such a thing as a perfect lawn, good enough for a championship, is quite unknown.” The man now responsible for Wimbledon’s famous perfect lawns is head groundsman Eddie Seaward. He has held this post for the past 15 years and is only the seventh man to do so in the history of the Club. ICONS went to Wimbledon to meet Eddie on the “perfect lawn” of the famous Number One court. Click on a question to hear his answer.
Interview: Chief Steward Andrew Gairdner
Popular opinion has it that the English love to stand in queues and complain about them but, never, under any circumstances, jump them. Wimbledon is the only major sporting event to still make provision for on-the-day sales of tickets and inevitably this results in very long queues. ICONS got the inside scoop on this favourite English pastime from the man who is responsible for supervising them - from the day before the tournament starts until the last ball is played.
Advice to Fans: 1925 and 2007
What advice was given to visitors back in 1925 - and how does it compare to the exclusive tips we've wheedled out of some experts if you're thinking of going in 2007? One thing that hasn't changed over the years is our fascination with celebrities…
Ten Things…
Tennis fans will enjoy testing themselves with these ten interesting facts - how many do you already know?
