Born on July 9
The First Wimbledon
Grass, rackets and a little rain.
Next: July 9, 2027
Where it comes from
This Story marks the anniversary of the first Wimbledon Championships, which began on 9 July 1877. The All England Club in Wimbledon, then a village outside London, had been founded for croquet and took up the new game of lawn tennis in 1875.
How it's celebrated
There is no organised observance, but the Championships are still played on grass every summer and the date often falls during the tournament. Mark it by picking up a racket at the local courts, watching a classic final, or inviting friends over to watch a match together.
Did you know
About 200 spectators paid one shilling each to watch the first final.
Read the full story of The First Wimbledon
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