Wimbledon season comes with its rituals: the strawberries, the centre court drama, the quiet hush before match point. But this summer, the world’s most iconic tennis tournament feels less like a standalone spectacle and more like a reminder that racket sports, in all their forms, have gone fully mainstream.

You can see it across London. Padel courts popping up on rooftops… watch this space. Pickleball creeping into conversations. Even tennis, once reserved for the ultra-polished set is getting a fresh wave of energy: more accessible, more social, more woven into city life.

It’s not hard to see why. Racket sports sit perfectly at the intersection of movement and connection. They’re competitive enough to spark adrenaline, but casual enough to wrap up with a drink courtside. No gym memberships, no marathon training plans - just fast games, easy access, and the chance to meet people outside the usual circles.

Padel, in particular, has flipped the model. It’s less technical, more inclusive, and made for urban spaces. It’s not replacing tennis, but it’s riding the same wave of cultural relevance Wimbledon brings into focus. Everyone’s watching the pros - but more people than ever are picking up a racket themselves, whether it’s for competition or just a new way to connect.

We’ll be showing the Wimbledon Men’s Final live at Earl’s Court. Strawberries, Pimms, BBQ on, big screen ready. Before that? Your chance to step onto court yourself.

Explore The Wimbledon Social

Brits to Watch:

Need a refresher before Finals Day? Here’s who to keep an eye on:

🎾 Emma Raducanu  Back in form and climbing the rankings. The US Open champ has rebuilt after injury and her return to grass this season has turned heads. Don’t rule her out for a deep run.

🎾 Jack Draper  Britain’s No.1 and youngest Brit to break the ATP top 5 since Andy Murray. Big lefty serve, fearless game, and coming into Wimbledon off the back of a career-best season.

🎾 Katie Boulter  Her best wins have been on grass, she’s building momentum and known for upsetting the odds. Her off-court style and on-court confidence make her one to watch.

🎾 Cameron Norrie  A Wimbledon semi-finalist not long ago, returning from injury and still dangerous on his day. Experience counts at SW19.

🎾 The Wildcard Crew  Names like Henry Searle, Oliver Tarvet, and teenagers Hanna Klugman and Mika Stojsavljevic mark Britain’s most exciting, diverse line-up in years. Keep an eye on the early rounds for some surprises.

Andy Murray may have officially stepped away, but British tennis feels more exciting than ever.