Queen In Rare Wimbledon Visit

Dean Nicholas
By Dean Nicholas Last edited 165 months ago
Queen In Rare Wimbledon Visit

2406_wimbledon2.png 33 years ago, in her Silver Jubilee year, the Queen visited Wimbledon to watch Virginia Wade become the last British tennis player to win the tournament. Her Maj can't have been impressed, because she hasn't been back since, until today: she's in SW19 to take in the fourth day.

Though not a fan of the sport (at least according to popular rumour), Liz and her hubby Phil will nonetheless tour the grounds and facilities before perching in the Royal box at Centre Court, where she can expect to see Andy Murray and Serena Williams in action (not against each other, unfortunately, though you wouldn't fancy Murray's chances). The usual brouhaha over Murray's supposed hostility to the English emerged earlier this week, when the tubthumping Telegraph alleged that the proud Scot might not bow to the monarch; rest assured, Royalists, that he'll do his duty.

It seems unlikely that the Queen will get to see history unfolding in the epic Isner - Mahut game, currently tied at 59 games apiece in the fifth set after ten hours of play; that match will take place on Court 18. Hopefully the Royal appearance, and the chance of watching the conclusion of a match that has already become legendary, will tempt the crowds, who have been staying away to watch the World Cup.

For tennis fans not blessed with a Royal imprimatur and a box with their name on it, have a look at our guide on how to get tickets.

Last Updated 24 June 2010