At Wimbledon, the world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament, matches are governed not only by the rules of the game but also by a strict nightly cutoff. Regardless of how thrilling or close a match may be, play must come to a halt by 11:00 p.m. local time.
Why the 11 p.m. cutoff exists
There are two main reasons for this rule:
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Respect for local residents: Wimbledon takes place in a residential area of southwest London. To maintain good relations with the community and minimize disruption, the All England Club agreed to a curfew when the Centre Court roof was introduced in 2009.
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Transport logistics: Many spectators rely on public transport to get home. The London Underground and other services begin winding down around midnight, and the nearest station is about a 15-minute walk from the venue. Ending play by 11 p.m. helps ensure fans and staff can travel safely and efficiently.
What happens if a match is still going?
If a match is still in progress when the clock strikes 11, it is paused immediately—no matter the score or momentum. Players must leave the court, and the match resumes the following day. This rule has led to some dramatic interruptions, including high-profile matches that were suspended mid-battle.
Is there ever flexibility?
While the rule is firm, there have been rare instances of slight leniency. In 2012, Andy Murray was allowed to finish a match that extended just two minutes past the curfew. However, such exceptions are extremely rare and only granted when a match is on the brink of conclusion.
This curfew ensures that Wimbledon remains a good neighbor while still delivering world-class tennis. It’s a unique feature that sets the tournament apart from other Grand Slams, where matches can stretch into the early hours of the morning.