Wimbledon kicked off on Monday morning, but for some spectators, the opening day seemed to fly by. The next two weeks are set to be buzzing with activity, as the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament kicks off at the All England Lawn. Crowds will be drawn to the venue and stands as the biggest names in tennis gear up to start their campaigns. However, those who attended the inaugural day were taken aback before the matches even began, as Wimbledon organisers had their first blunder of the tournament right from the off.
The public address system at the event broadcast a message informing spectators that the venue would be closing in 15 minutes and wishing everyone a safe journey home at 10am. For those planning to visit Wimbledon, the grounds actually open at 10am each day of the tournament, with play commencing on the outside courts at 11am, No. 1 Court at 1pm, and Centre Court at 1.30pm. Fans already inside or within ear shot would have no doubt been left bewildered by the accidental announcement.
That same message is typically heard by Wimbledon attendees shortly after the conclusion of the day's play, as the venue shuts its doors for the night.
Fortunately for those present on a scorching first day, with temperatures predicted to hit 32 degrees, they were not asked to depart and instead told they could enjoy the typical Wimbledon treats of strawberries and cream as the action continued.
The opening day of the tournament was abuzz with excitement. Britain's Cameron Norrie took to the court alongside big names like Daniil Medvedev and Taylor Fritz, before Carlos Alcaraz began his quest for a third consecutive championship title.
British No. 1 Emma Raducanu also commenced her journey today, facing Brit Mingge Xu shortly after Alcaraz's match against Italy's Fabio Fognini. The tennis world has been swirling with gossip about Raducanu and the Spanish sensation, with whispers of a budding romance dominating the pre-tournament conversation.
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When asked on the eve of the event about her connection with Alcaraz, the 2021 US Open winner couldn't help but smile as she said: "We're just good friends."
The pair are set to join forces in mixed doubles at the upcoming US Open, fuelling further speculation after Raducanu was seen cheering on Alcaraz during his performance at Queen's.