Wimbledon 2022: The Magic of Court 18
If you didn't get a ticket for one of the large, covered courts in Wimbledon, you can still look forward to an atmospheric visit to the mecca of lawn tennis.
by Jens Huiber
last edit:
Jul 02, 2022, 11:23 am
In Grand Slam tournaments, it's usually like this: The matches on the big show courts always start a little later, the many people who bought tickets for the hit games are looking for distraction on the outdoor courts. In Roland Garros this leads to long queues, but at the US Open there is room for everyone, everywhere.
Wimbledon is somewhere in between. On the one hand, because the British fans bring a very pleasant serenity with them and are satisfied with a seat on the grass on Henman Hill or Murray Mountain - at least on the green elevation right next to Court 1. And then there are Courts 2 and up, where those who come first grind first. Court 18 is strongly recommended for those who have the chance. This is the one on which Nicolas Mahut and John Isner spent three days looking for a winner a few years ago.
This square offers three grandstands, the best being the one at the front. Also because you are welcomed there in a friendly manner and, yes, also instructed.
Emma Raducanu guest at the 18er
Friday morning, shortly after 11 a.m., Jule Niemeier and Lesia Tsurenko are setting themselves up on the court below, but the attention on the front side of the grandstand is first of all directed to a steward who gives the impression that she has been working at this very court for at least 18 years 18 provides. In fact, there are only eleven - but overall the 18 are correct, as the reporter learns in an unofficial conversation. That's enough to familiarize the spectators with the rules here, combined with the friendly wish that it may be a good tennis day.
Anyone supervising the competition sites can of course also follow the matches. But sometimes that's not the point. One learns that the interaction with the fans is almost more important, because there is also a queue on Court 18. It's short and clearly staffed on Friday - but it's always enough for continuous short calls.
That the really big stars don't stop by at the 18? Half as bad. Emma Racucanu competed here twice last year, and there's no more celebrity factor in British tennis these days. It doesn't matter that Emma's 2022 tournament ended early. The experienced steward is sure that she will make her way. But I have to take care of the concerns of the waiting fans again. A job that she would enjoy for another 18 years.
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