Heading to Wimbledon this year? Once you've figured out what to wear and how much cream to have on your strawberries, the next question you're likely to have ahead of the tennis tournament is: how do I behave appropriately?
The hesitancy is only natural. Wimbledon is a calendar moment steeped in history and tradition. While we all know the basics of how to act courtside (not getting absolutely sloshed, avoiding yelling at the players), there are more specific etiquette rules that often aren't said aloud. That can mean it's very easy to make a blunder without even realising.
So, how do we avoid a manners mess-up? We've got to get to grips with the unspoken guidelines of Wimbledon attendance. And there's only one man we can trust to get us there: William Hanson, Britain's leading etiquette coach.
'Wimbledon fortnight is not only a highly-respected event, steeped in history, tradition and prestige, but it attracts the best players from around the world,' William tells Good Housekeeping. 'Good etiquette shows respect to the heritage of the event, and the world-class tennis that is played there.'
Often the best way to ensure you understand good etiquette is to know what bad etiquette is. With this in mind, William shares 7 mistakes people unknowingly make at Wimbledon – including the things that are absolutely not allowed.
Popping champagne
You're allowed to bring wine into Wimbledon, but there are some caveats. First off, glassware is not permitted – so grab some plastic flutes instead, suggests William, 'but remember your etiquette and still always hold them by the stem' – and neither are hard-sided cool boxes or picnic hampers.
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And don't you dare go popping corks and making a big show of a champagne spray. 'You can bring in your own bottle of fizz if you choose, but it needs to be opened before you reach your court-side seats,' William says. 'Players can't be distracted by the sound of popping corks.'
Wearing the wrong thing
Dress up for the occasion, but don't veer into costume territory, says William: 'While Wimbledon is a sporting event, it is not the time to turn up in sports clothes. A smart casual dress code is encouraged, so look the part and dress appropriately (and for the weather). Wear sensible shoes as there is an unexpected amount of walking during the day.'
One more important point: a hat, great. A giant hat, not so great. 'Avoid wearing a large hat that could obscure the view of those sitting behind you,' notes William.
Cheering when someone makes a mistake
William says: 'Spectators must respect the unique ambience of tennis, and stay quiet when the players are serving and during rallies. It’s fine to applaud between points, games and sets, but never heckle players, cheer mistakes or shout out during play.'
Having your phone on loud... or vibrate
At Wimbledon, players take quiet very seriously. If you're the one whose phone rings just as a player is about to serve, don't be surprised if a racquet gets lobbed at your head. William urges: 'Keep mobile phones on silent (or better still ‘Do Not Disturb’ to avoid distracting vibrations)'
Taking phone calls
On the topic of phones, William also says: 'Never take a voice call during a match. Make sure your volume is turned down or wear headphones if you are looking at anything with sound on your phone.'
Moving around
You're allowed to leave your seat during changeovers, but absolutely not during active play. Even during breaks, though, don't be up and down constantly. 'Try to be seated and ready in good time before a game starts,' notes William. 'It is important to also limit how much you are moving about. Asking people to repeatedly stand up and let you in and out of your row will cause understandable irritation.'
Having a tuna sandwich followed by a bit of blue cheese and some fermented herring
William says: 'Carefully sharing some low-key sandwiches with your companion is one thing, but the disruption of attempting an in-seat banquet of complicated, messy and smelly foods is inconsiderate and best saved for a different occasion.'
William's final words of wisdom: 'Relax and enjoy a wonderful day out, but be sure to mind your manners. Take the time to be patient, kind and considerate to everyone around you.' Good advice all round, really, not just for Wimbledon.
