Wimbledon's rare heat rule to be used on opening day as temperature soars to 34C

Wimbledon will introduce special measures to cope with the searing temperatures expected to hit SW19 over the coming days. The wait is almost over, with many of the world's best players ready to do battle on the biggest stage. Carlos Alcaraz is the reigning men's champion while Barbora Krejcikova will be hoping to defend the women's title she won in 2024.

The start of Wimbledon will be greeted by a spell of hot weather, meaning extra precautions could be taken at the All England Club. Temperatures are expected to hit 34 degrees on Monday and Tuesday before cooling down later in the week. Amber heat warnings have been issued by the Health Security Agency in many parts of the country, including London.

It means Wimbledon's heat rule, which is rarely called into action, may be used on the opening day of the tournament. It allows for a 10-minute pause between the third and fourth set of men's matches, or between sets two and three of women's matches.

Breaks will only be needed if the heat stress index rises above 30.1 degrees. The heat stress index takes into account a number of factors including surface temperature, humidity and air temperature.

Measurements are taken via a heat stress monitor, with readings noted 30 minutes before the start of play and then again at 2pm and 7pm. If the weather cools and the rule is lifted, any matches already in progress will be completed with the rule in place.

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It only applies to singles matches that are yet to begin and only one player needs to request the mid-match break for the special measures to be implemented.

The heat rule was introduced in 1992 and was only used in women's matches until 2019, when it was expanded to include all singles events.

Those heading to Wimbledon will need to stay hydrated and take measures to protect themselves against the searing heat. A huge medical team will be on standby to treat fans should they begin to suffer in the crowd.

Parts of London have already seen prolonged spells of heat over the last few weeks and the Met Office have warned that high temperatures are likely to continue.

"There are signs of more widely settled weather during the second half of July, however this signal is very tentative," they said.

"Temperatures are expected to be above average for most areas, especially towards the south east where there will be an ongoing chance of some very warm or hot conditions at times."

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