The Wimbledon Royal Box: How 74 Wicker Chairs Became the Toughest Ticket in Sports
Meta Description: Explore the history and secrets of the Wimbledon Royal Box. Discover who gets invited, the perks, and how the AELTC selects its exclusive guests.
For over a century, it has been one of the most exclusive invitations in the world of sports. Nestled in the southern stand of Wimbledon’s Centre Court, the Wimbledon Royal Box offers just 74 dark green wicker chairs to a handpicked list of royalty, global celebrities, and powerful dignitaries, creating a spectacle of influence as captivating as the tennis itself.
A Century of Exclusivity
First established when the iconic grounds opened in 1922, the 74-seat segregated area has become a cornerstone of the tournament’s tradition. Far more than just a viewing platform, the box is an emblem of prestige, reserved for guests who represent the pinnacle of sports, culture, and public service.
Each day of the tournament, a new roster of famous faces and influential figures occupies the box, continuing a tradition that blends world-class athletics with high society.
The Gatekeeper: How Invitations Are Decided
The process of securing a seat in the Royal Box is shrouded in deliberation, with invitations sent directly from the chairperson of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC). Since 2023, this influential role has been held by former professional tennis player Debbie Jevans.
The Role of the AELTC Chairperson
Jevans is tasked with curating the daily guest list, a responsibility that involves balancing tradition with modern influence. In making her selections, she considers suggestions from a wide array of stakeholders, including:
- The AELTC’s management committee
- The Lawn Tennis Association
- Other prominent tennis organizations and figures
This collaborative approach ensures the guest list reflects the global importance of the tournament, honoring both tennis insiders and major public figures.
The Ultimate VIP Experience
An invitation to the Royal Box extends far beyond a prime view of the on-court action. Guests are treated to a level of hospitality befitting their status. The experience is entirely complimentary, with invitees bypassing the famous Wimbledon queues and entry fees.
Beyond the Tennis
The day for these exclusive guests begins with an invitation to lunch at the adjacent clubhouse before play commences. Following the final match, they are also invited for tea and drinks, providing a private setting for networking and socializing away from the public eye.
Who Sits in the Lloyd Loom Chairs?
The iconic dark green Lloyd Loom wicker chairs have hosted a diverse and powerful guest list over the decades. While household names generate the most headlines, the list is a carefully constructed mix of individuals.
Members of the British royal family are regular and anticipated guests, often joined by other heads of state, including presidents and prime ministers from around the world. The box also welcomes a who’s who of athletic greatness, with sportspeople from various disciplines frequently in attendance.
However, the guest list also includes less recognizable but equally important figures. These can include key commercial partners, media professionals, and civic dignitaries whose contributions are vital to the success and prestige of The Championships. It is this unique blend of celebrity, royalty, and behind-the-scenes power that makes the All England Lawn Tennis Club Royal Box a truly unparalleled institution in global sports.
