Tennis enthusiasts are crossing their fingers that the rain that has impacted Wimbledon already will be the last precipitation the tournament experiences in 2024.
Qualifying matches in Roehampton were briefly delayed five days before the main draw began due to weather conditions, but organizers are optimistic about minimal rain delays during this year’s event.
While there were some brief interruptions at Wimbledon 2023, they pale in comparison to the challenges faced a century earlier when the final had to be postponed by three days.
What happens if it rains at Wimbledon 2024? And how likely are major disruptions for organizers?
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Does Wimbledon have a retractable roof on Centre Court?
A retractable roof was added to Wimbledon’s iconic Centre Court in 2009, involving a complex architectural feat with 1,000 metric tons of steel.
The roof consists of 214 moving components and can be adjusted to control sunlight glare over spectators and the Royal Box.
The estimated cost of the roof ranges from £80 million to £100 million ($98m-$122m), and it was operational two years after a rain-ravaged Wimbledon and three years before the London Olympic Games.
A £70 million ($86m) roof was also installed on Court No.1 in time for the 2019 tournament, proving its worth during a rainy opening ceremony.
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What is the protocol for rain on smaller Wimbledon courts?
Match umpires and officials typically communicate when inclement weather is approaching, leading to a temporary suspension of play.
Ground staff, along with ball boys and girls, swiftly cover the courts to prevent grass deterioration while players exit the area.
Play is paused until weather conditions improve and visibility allows for safe play to resume. Matches may be rescheduled if necessary.
Rain delays are known to shift the momentum of matches, impacting player performance.
Wimbledon 2024 Weather Forecast
The latest forecasts for Wimbledon suggest a low probability of rain.
Opening day is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 24°C (53°F to 75°F).
There is a minimal chance of rain on Sunday, June 30th, currently standing at 5%.
Further weather updates for the tournament will be provided on this page.
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Wimbledon Tickets: Rain Refund Policy
Spectators are eligible for a full ticket refund if less than an hour of play is affected by rain on their court.
The same refund policy applies to grounds pass holders if less than an hour of play occurs on outside courts before 5 p.m.
If play is disrupted for more than an hour but less than two hours, refund amounts are halved. The referee’s decision on play duration is final, according to Wimbledon guidelines.