The Serbian player, who recently clinched his seventh Wimbledon title, believes that advancing the starting hours of matches would better accommodate players and fans, while also considering the unpredictable British weather.
In a post-match press conference, Djokovic voiced his concerns about the late start times at Centre Court during the tournament. He highlighted the challenges faced by players in completing matches as daylight fades, and the potential impact on the quality of play. The Wimbledon men’s singles final, traditionally held on the tournament’s closing Sunday, often extends into the evening due to prolonged matches earlier in the day.
I believe that starting matches earlier at Centre Court would be beneficial for everyone involved, Djokovic stated. As players, we strive to give our best performances, and playing in fading light can be difficult. Moreover, it is essential to consider the spectators who come to enjoy the matches. By adjusting the schedule, we can ensure a better experience for all.
Djokovic’s call for earlier start times also takes into account the unpredictable British weather, which has been known to cause delays and interruptions during the tournament. With the tournament’s current start time at 1 p.m., matches often extend late into the evening, sometimes requiring the use of artificial lighting to complete play.
The Wimbledon organizers traditionally adhere to a strict schedule, with the men’s singles final starting at approximately 2 p.m. on the final day. However, Djokovic believes that adapting to the changing needs of players and fans is essential for the tournament’s continued success.
It’s important to be flexible and adapt to the circumstances, Djokovic emphasized. By starting matches earlier, we can mitigate the impact of weather delays and ensure a smooth progression of the tournament. This would also allow players to have adequate rest and recovery time between matches, which is crucial in a physically demanding sport like tennis.Source TOIDjokovic’s suggestion has sparked a debate within the tennis community, with some supporting the idea of earlier start times to accommodate players and spectators, while others argue that the tradition and atmosphere of evening matches add to the charm of Wimbledon.
Wimbledon, known for its rich history and adherence to traditions, has long been a showcase of world-class tennis. Any changes to the tournament’s schedule would require careful consideration and discussion among the organizers, players, and other stakeholders involved.
As Djokovic continues his quest for more Grand Slam titles, his advocacy for earlier start times at Centre Court has drawn attention to the evolving nature of tennis tournaments and the need for adaptability. The discussion surrounding potential scheduling changes at Wimbledon reflects a broader conversation within the tennis world about modernizing and accommodating the demands of the sport while preserving its heritage.
It remains to be seen whether Djokovic’s proposal will be seriously considered and implemented in future editions of Wimbledon. However, his voice as one of the most accomplished players in the sport carries weight and adds momentum to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the scheduling and organization of major tennis tournaments.Share your views in the comments
