The annual Wimbledon Championships has historically been linked to royal appearances. But many might be shocked to know that despite being on the throne for 70 years, Her Majesty The Queen has only attended the championships four times. The reason? Her Majesty is not an avid tennis fan. Although, she has appeared at the tournament in her role as patron.
The Queen’s visits took place in July 1957, July 1962, July 1977, and July 2010. As patron of over 600 organisations, in 2016, The Queen chose to share the workload with her family. Effective January 2017, the Duchess of Cambridge became the AELT Wimbledon patron.
With the 2022 championships now here, Royal Central is taking a look at The Queen’s historic visits to the popular tennis event.
1957
Her first visit to Wimbledon as Queen, The Queen presents American player Althea Gibson with the gold salver after she beat fellow American Darlene Hard in the Ladies’ Singles Final.
1962
Her Majesty presents Australia’s Rod Laver with a trophy for his victory over Martin Mulligan in the Men’s Singles final.
1977
The Queen presents the Ladies’ Singles trophy to English athlete Virginia Wade.
2010
The Queen makes her first visit to the Championships in 33 years.
