Wimbledon 2026: Day 1 Live Updates, Prize Money & Tournament News
The 139th edition of the Wimbledon Championships is officially underway! As of today, Monday, June 29, 2026, the world’s best tennis players have descended upon the hallowed grass courts of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) in SW19, London.
This year’s tournament promises to be historic, marked by record-breaking prize money, the introduction of pioneering video review technology, and the highly anticipated return of tennis icon Serena Williams.
🎾 Live Tournament Updates (June 29, 2026)
The first round is in full swing across the grounds. Here are the latest developments from the opening day:
- Matches in Progress: High-intensity first-round battles are currently taking place, featuring players like Jessica Pegula, Andrey Rublev, Denis Shapovalov, and Botic van de Zandschulp.
- Video Review System: For the first time in Wimbledon history, players can challenge specific chair umpire calls—including ‘not-up’ and ‘foul shot’—via video review on six show courts (Centre Court, No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, Court 12, and Court 18).
- Tournament Logistics: Daily play begins on outside courts at 11:00 AM local time, with Centre Court matches commencing at 1:30 PM.
🏆 Key Highlights for 2026
Record-Breaking Prize Money
In a significant move for player welfare and tournament growth, the AELTC has announced a total prize pool of £64,200,000, representing a 20% increase from 2025.
- Singles Champions: Each winner receives £3,600,000.
- First-Round Losers: Prize money for first-round participants has seen a 21.2% boost to £80,000.
A Historic Truce
Following intense negotiations, a truce has been reached between top players and the AELTC regarding prize money and player representation. Players have confirmed they will resume full media duties starting today, ensuring the tournament remains focused on the action on the court.
The Return of a Legend
Serena Williams has officially returned to Wimbledon. Competing with a wild card in both the singles and doubles (partnering with Venus Williams), she has described this return as a “great opportunity” for her final chapters in professional tennis.
New Technology & Infrastructure
- Electronic Line Calling (ELC): While live line calling is standard, new visual indicators for ‘out’ and ‘fault’ calls will now appear on all court scoreboards to enhance the fan experience.
- Andy Murray’s New Role: Former champion Andy Murray returns to SW19, not as a player, but as a member of Jack Draper’s coaching team.
📅 Tournament Schedule
- Main Draw: June 29 – July 12, 2026
- Middle Sunday (Full Play): July 5, 2026
- Quarter-finals: July 7–8, 2026
- Semi-finals: July 9–10, 2026
- Ladies’ Singles Final: Saturday, July 11, 2026
- Gentlemen’s Singles Final: Sunday, July 12, 2026
For more click here.
