As Wimbledon swung open its doors under scorching temperatures, the buzz was more electric than usual.
From sizzling courtside action to social media split over AI referees, Mail Sport’s team—covering everything from Court 1 to Centre Court—were on hand to capture every tense serve, heated reaction, and off-court moment across Day One.
Court 14 Shocks: Jabeur’s Match Ends Early
One of the day’s most surprising moments came when Ons Jabeur, last year’s finalist, retired from play on Court 14 after taking a medical timeout.
Down 3–2 to Viktoriya Tomova, Jabeur’s exit left the crowd stunned, and Tomova advanced to round two.
It was a heartbreaking end for a player still battling both form and past injuries.
Qualifier on the Rise: Oliver Tarvet Impresses
Across on Court 4, British hopeful Oliver Tarvet was turning heads.
He grunted his way through an opening set against qualifier Leandro Riedi, trailing only slightly in the second.
The Swiss player complained about Tarvet’s slow pace—but it was Tarvet’s play that stole the spotlight.
A win here likely awaits a showdown with defending champ Carlos Alcaraz.
Swift Start for Svitolina and Ostapenko
Also shining early was Elina Svitolina, breezing past Anna Bondar with a convincing 6–3, 6–1 victory.
Meanwhile, Jelena Ostapenko got off to another rapid start—this time against Kartal, racing to a commanding lead in the second set.
The Hawk’s Replacement: Wimbledon Welcomes Next-Gen Rufus
A fun moment came off court when tournament chiefs announced a plan to introduce the offspring of Rufus the hawk, Wimbledon’s beloved bird of prey who swoops to scare away pigeons.
CEO Sally Bolton confirmed that the avian legacy will continue—no robotic replacement here, just nature’s original “Hawk‑Eye” in training.
Protest at the Gates: Anti‑AI Campaigners Make a Statement
Meanwhile, two London students—Harry Robson and Gabriel Paul—staged an outside protest dressed as retired line judges.
They voiced concerns about AI threatening jobs, with former line judges expressing support.
“It’s a shame,” one said, noting the tension between progress and tradition.
Player Security Upgraded Amid Rising Risks
Tournament chief Sally Bolton also confirmed increased security measures after recent stalking threats.
With incidents involving players like Emma Raducanu and Iga Swiatek, the club is upping protection to ensure everyone—from athletes to spectators—feels safe on-site.
Stars in the Royal Box and on the Lawn
The Royal Box lineup read like a wish list of British royalty and sporting legends: Princess Beatrice, Sarah Ferguson, plus football icon David Beckham, and cricket hero Stuart Broad.
On the courts, familiar names were playing through the punishing heat—Cameron Norrie, Katie Boulter, Alcaraz, Andy Murray, and a host of Brits, including wildcard Dan Evans eying a potential matchup with Novak Djokovic.
Heavy Heat and Long Paddock: Fans Brace for a Hot Queue
Fans endured a scorching start to Wimbledon’s hottest opening day ever, many queuing at 6 a.m. for a chance to get in.
Organizers warned of limited shade, urging sunblock and water as the mercury climbed toward 34°C.
A Day of Traditions and New Beginnings
There was mixed sentiment toward Wimbledon’s debut of AI line judges—a tech-first for the All England Club, with many players remaining skeptical.
Meanwhile, former champion Maria Sharapova made a nostalgic return to Centre Court, recalling her 2004 triumph with Serena Williams.
The torch of tradition may burn bright, but it’s clear Wimbledon is evolving—both on and off the grass.