• Wimbledon 2025 records its hottest opening day with temperatures soaring past 30°C.
• The All England Club has introduced a 10-minute cooling break rule for players.
• Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and other players utilized ice packs to combat heat.
• Organizers implemented extensive measures, including hydration stations for fans and players.
• Protests occurred outside the venue, but security managed the situation effectively.

The 2025 Wimbledon Championships commenced under unprecedented heat, marking the hottest opening day in the tournament's history, with temperatures reaching 32.3 degrees Celsius. Fans at the All England Club were seen gathering under sun hats while seeking shade and water, reminiscent of conditions usually associated with the Australian Open, as the air temperature surpassed the previous opening-day record of 29.3 degrees set in 2001, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.

In response to the oppressive heat, the All England Club activated a heat stress rule, permitting players to take 10-minute breaks when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) exceeds 30.1 degrees Celsius. This rule is significant for maintaining player health and well-being during tournaments, allowing breaks after the second set for best-of-three matches and after the third set for best-of-five matches, as confirmed by India Times and Reuters.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz faced the heat while competing against Fabio Fognini and was seen frequently reaching for ice-packed towels during his match. The extreme conditions led to a hiatus in play when a spectator required medical assistance due to the soaring temperatures, highlighting the challenges both players and fans faced on that day, according to BBC and Reuters.

The management at Wimbledon ensured ample support for players and spectators alike, with over 100 hydration stations available and specific cooling protocols implemented for ball kids, including cooling scarves to mitigate heat stress. Chief Executive Sally Bolton stated that the facilities were well-prepared for the heatwave, advising attendees to hydrate and seek relief from the sun, as noted in reports from Channel News Asia and BBC.

Amidst the tennis action, a pro-Palestinian protest took place outside the venue. Organisers were vigilant, stating they had coordinated with local authorities to ensure that the event remained safe and enjoyable for attendees. Notably, protestors were allowed to display their flags, emphasizing the event's commitment to managing lawful demonstrations, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.