Five-time Grand Slam winner joins calls to close Wimbledon roof

12 Jul 2025 • 8:14 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Several spectators fainted during Thursday’s women’s singles semi-finals at Wimbledon due to high temperatures.
  • Temperatures reached over 30C, with similar conditions forecast for the finals weekend, leading to an amber weather alert for large parts of England.
  • Fans are urging Wimbledon officials to close the roofs of Centre Court and Court One to provide shade for spectators.
  • The roofs were originally installed to protect courts from rain, but fans argue they should be used to shield attendees, particularly older crowds, from prolonged sun exposure.
  • Five-time Grand Slam winner Iga Swiatek also suggested closing the roofs if it would help, despite the 10-minute closure process leading to an overall 30-minute break in play.

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