London: Fans at Wimbledon were left parched and frustrated during what is now being called the hottest edition in the tournament’s 147-year history, after water refill stations were abruptly shut down amid soaring temperatures.
Sponsor Evian, which had unveiled eco-friendly refillable water bottles this year, was forced to halt sales after running out of supply due to “exceptionally hot weather,” the company said.
“Demand was far higher than we have seen in previous years,” an Evian spokesperson admitted to The Sun.
“As a result, we’ve had to stop offering Evian refill earlier than planned.”
Semifinal Halted as Fans Collapse
The intense heat forced the Carlos Alcaraz vs Taylor Fritz semifinal to be paused twice, after two fans fainted in the stands. Temperatures hit 31°C (87.8°F), leaving players and spectators gasping for relief.
“London is not ready for this weather,” said Belarusian star Aryna Sabalenka, while American player Amanda Anisimova noted feeling fatigued due to the heat.
Evian’s Refill System Backfires
The shutdown of the Evian refill system — marketed as a sustainable initiative — drew criticism from fans who had paid for bottles they could no longer refill. Though over 100 tap water points remained operational, the abrupt discontinuation created long queues and confusion.
“We’re out here sweating and struggling to stay hydrated — this isn’t what we paid for,” one frustrated fan told local media.
Calls to Shut the Roof
Polish finalist Iga Swiatek questioned why Wimbledon’s £70 million retractable roof wasn’t closed despite the oppressive heat:
“They usually only shut it when it rains. I’m not sure why they don’t consider heat.”
The Centre Court roof, completed in 2009, has never been closed for hot weather, though it only takes 10 minutes to shut. The All England Club has yet to comment on whether temperature-related closures will be considered in future.
Climate Change Raises Questions About Sports Infrastructure
With record-breaking temperatures becoming increasingly common in the UK, questions are mounting over sporting venue preparedness. Players and fans alike are calling on event organizers to adapt.
“The heat’s real. London needs to start planning like it’s Madrid,” one fan quipped.
Summary
- Water refill stations at Wimbledon were shut due to extreme heat.
- Sponsor Evian blamed record demand and hot weather.
- At least two fans collapsed during matches; one semifinal was halted twice.
- Players questioned why the roof wasn’t closed to protect players and fans.
- Wimbledon organizers face scrutiny overheat preparedness.