Cathedral-like silence, crowded stands, respect for the players… The Center court, temple of tennis with a cozy atmosphere

The Center court is not the temple of tennis for nothing. When you first enter it, you automatically feel its unique aura. Perhaps because its access is far from easy, both for the spectators – draw and high price – and for the media, where an authorization is necessary for each match.

Far from the tumultuous atmosphere of Roland-Garros, electric of the US Open and feverish of Australia, the center court of Wimbledon is that of chic and respect. A cozy atmosphere that feels, sees and hears. On this very sober court, almost without any advertising and with the bare minimum of furniture, the public, very prepared for the occasion, encourages, applauds and celebrates. He never boos a player for any reason.

The applause all occur simultaneously at the end of a point, to stop, in the same movement, a few seconds later. As soon as the players are ready to serve, the court becomes silent. And if a spectator dares to speak, he is immediately taken up by those around him, from a “hush” annoyed. Moreover, the referee does not need to call to order in the stands, as is common to see at Roland-Garros.

Respect for the place and the players

The silence during the exchanges is worthy of a cathedral. Especially since the ball produces no noise when bouncing on the grass, and once in the enclosure, no noise from the outside is perceptible. This was also demonstrated during the opening match, Monday, July 3. As tradition dictates, Novak Djokovic, winner last year, was the first scheduled match of the tournament on this court, against Argentinian Pedro Cachin. The Serb even won easily in three sets (6-3, 6-3, 7-6 [7-4]) under the eyes of a large audience – the stadium was almost full – and conquered.

If the seven-time winner in London has been heckled more than once in Paris, at Wimbledon, he is a champion that we respect. Even when he challenges a chair umpire’s decision early in the third set. Timid boos are heard faintly for a few seconds from one side of the stadium, but are quickly drowned out by loud applause of support.

The Serb even makes the spectators laugh during his match: first, when he wants to wipe the court, wet after a shower, with his towel to resume more quickly, or when he strings together three consecutive lets on one of his serves and reveals a pout of incomprehension. The Center court audience is delighted and savors it. Because here, more than anywhere, tennis and a taste for sport take precedence.