The 138th edition of the Wimbledon Championships began on Monday under unusually warm conditions, both in weather and anticipation.
Fans around the globe turned their attention to the iconic grass courts as defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka launched their campaigns.
Adding to the excitement, a record number of 23 British players are participating in this year’s tournament, marking the largest home contingent in over four decades.
Carlos Alcaraz opened his title defense on Centre Court against veteran Italian Fabio Fognini. Entering the tournament with a 19-match winning streak and fresh off victories at Roland-Garros and Queen’s Club, the Spanish star appeared enthusiastic and comfortable on grass.
He showed confidence and energy during a light-hearted pre-match exchange with Fognini, setting the tone for what was expected to be an entertaining opener.
Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka prepared to face Canadian wildcard Carson Branstine. The Belarusian top seed acknowledged being unfamiliar with her opponent but remained focused.
Branstine, ranked 194 in the world and also a part-time model, entered the match with strong self-belief following an impressive qualifying run. Her bold attitude had already caught attention, even drawing some playful remarks from fellow players like Novak Djokovic.
British tennis fans had plenty to cheer for as 23 local players entered the singles draws. Among the standout names, Jacob Fearnley, ranked 51st, was set to meet 18-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca on No. 1 Court. The young Brazilian’s enthusiastic supporters were expected to bring added energy to the encounter.
Katie Boulter faced a tough challenge against Paula Badosa on Centre Court. Badosa, seeded ninth and a former world No. 2, continues her comeback from injury.
Cam Norrie, a 2022 semi-finalist, was matched against experienced Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut, while teenage wildcard Mimi Xu was drawn to play Emma Raducanu, creating a compelling generational showdown.
Also drawing attention was 16-year-old Hannah Klugman, who made her Wimbledon debut against Leylah Fernandez, Raducanu’s opponent from the 2021 US Open final.
Elsewhere, big servers Taylor Fritz and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard prepared for a fiery clash on No. 2 Court. With 645 combined aces this season, their match promised powerful play and fast-paced action.
Wimbledon’s opening day delivered a mix of elite tennis, fresh talent, and high expectations as the 2025 Championships got underway.