Wimbledon Wildcards 2025: Who decides and why they matter
Wimbledon Wildcards 2025: Who decides and why they matter (Image via Getty)
Every year at Wimbledon, some players enter the tournament without going through the usual process. They don't qualify directly. They didn't win a qualifying match either. Still, they get a chance to play.
But how do these players get in? Who decides? And why are these 'wildcard' entries so special? The answer involves big names, old champions, and secret selections.
Goran Ivanisevic made history with a wildcard in 2001
In 2001 Goran Ivanisevic, Croatian tennis star, was rated globally. Number 125. He did not automatically qualify for Wimbledon that year. He received, though, a wildcard from the All England Lawn Tennis Club, the organization in charge of Wimbledon. Then winning the men's singles championship, Ivanisevic stunned the world.
This was the first time a male wildcard won Wimbledon. Still regarded as among the most unexpected and poignant tennis victories is his tale.
Serena Williams and Venus Williams won Doubles titles with Wildcards
American sisters Serena Williams and Venus Williams received wildcard invitations in 2000 and once more in 2009 to compete in women's doubles at Wimbledon. They both won the competition. London's renowned Wimbledon courts hosted these tournaments. Even though they were already famous in singles, they were not originally entered in doubles.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
One of the Most Successful Investors of All Time, Warren Buffett, Recommends: 5 Books for Turning...
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Click Here
Undo
But the wildcard gave them a chance — and they used it to win. This shows how wildcards are often given to strong players who fans want to see again.
Andy Murray and Jamie Murray got a wildcard in 2024
British siblings Andy Murray and Jamie Murray were given wildcard entry to Wimbledon's men's doubles in July 2024. Following an injury, Andy, two-time Wimbledon singles winner, was returning. Hoping to allow admirers to see him once more at his home event, the wildcard was seen as a gift from the All England Club.
Regrettably, the Murrays were defeated in the first round. Still, their arrival changed British tennis.
How the Wimbledon Wildcard decision Is made
Wimbledon has been giving wildcards since 1977. A group at the All England Lawn Tennis Club decides who gets them. They look at a player's past performance, especially at Wimbledon, injury history, and sometimes give chances to local British players. Since 2003, some wildcard places in singles are also given through play-off tournaments, usually held in the UK.
These matches help the committee pick deserving players.
Jonathan Marray and Frederik Nielsen were the last Wildcard Champions
Frederik Nielsen of Denmark and British player Jonathan Marray claimed the Wimbledon men's doubles crown in 2012. They were wild card nominees. Their victory in the contest at the All England Club left everyone surprised. Wildcard players won a championship at Wimbledon this time around.
Also Read:
Petra Kvitova Returns To Wimbledon; Awarded Wild Card; Only Non-British Player Selected
Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
37 minutes ago
- Time of India
Where is Justin Tucker now? Ravens face pressure-packed task of finding their next kicking legend
Ravens face a significant challenge in the 2025 season as they seek to replace Justin Tucker (Imagn Images) As the Baltimore Ravens prepare for the 2025 NFL season, one of the biggest storylines isn't about their quarterback or defense—it's about a vacant spot at kicker. That's because for the first time in over a decade, the Ravens will line up without Justin Tucker, the most accurate kicker in league history, whose departure has left a massive void and even bigger expectations. Tyler Loop steps into the spotlight with pressure to perform right away To fill the legendary role, the Ravens are turning to rookies, including sixth-round draft pick Tyler Loop. Known for his consistency and strong leg in college, Loop is now tasked with the unenviable challenge of stepping into the shadow of a player whose foot won games and defined an era. — koestreicher34 (@koestreicher34) Loop's success at the college level earned him a shot, but transitioning to the NFL is no small feat. The pressure is real. Every kick he takes will inevitably be measured against Tucker's nearly flawless resume. The Ravens hope Loop can rise to the occasion, showing not only technical skill but also mental resilience under game-day pressure. Justin Tucker leaves behind more than just records — he defined reliability Replacing Tucker is about more than stats. His record-setting 66-yard field goal in 2021 was a moment of pure NFL history, but his influence went beyond highlight reels. Tucker was a steadying force for the team, a clutch performer with near-automatic accuracy, and a leader in the locker room. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 추가비용 걱정없는 전체임플란트 300만원 kimplant 더 알아보기 Undo He was, for many fans, the most trusted player on the roster. That level of dependability doesn't come around often—and it's why the Ravens know they have to get this decision right. Baltimore's coaches now carry the responsibility of grooming their rookie talent, with hopes that a new face can eventually rise to legendary status. The Ravens know that games can be won or lost on a single kick, and the margin for error in the NFL is razor-thin. Also Read: Why is Antonio Brown still free? NFL star accused of attempted murder vacations abroad as police wait While nobody can replace Justin Tucker overnight, the Ravens are betting on development, patience, and preparation to help their next kicker find success—and maybe, someday, leave his own mark on franchise history. Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
NBA Creator Cup ignites controversy as Raye YPK and viral stars steal pro level attention
NBA Creator Cup ignites controversy as Raye YPK and viral stars steal pro level attention (Image Source : X) In the NBA Creator Cup, the spotlight shifts from pros to the internet's biggest basketball creators. This summer, the court won't be owned by NBA stars; it'll be ruled by names like SypherPK, Daydrian Harding, Raye YPK, and more. It's not your usual league matchup, but it's grabbing attention everywhere. On July 9, inside The Pavilion in Las Vegas, these creators will trade content for competition. With millions watching, they're not just showing up, they're reshaping what basketball culture looks like. NBA Creator Cup goes live as SypherPK and top creators turn content into competition On Wednesday July 9, the PlayStation NBA Creator Cup will happen at The Pavilion at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Tip-off is at 10:00 PM ET, and fans can watch live on NBA YouTube and the NBA App. Some of the biggest basketball content creators will be there. SypherPK, Daydrian Harding, Raye YPK, Cam Wilder, and Carson Roney are all playing. These creators are known for viral clips, funny posts, and street basketball. Now, they're meeting face to face on one full court. This is the first time many of these creators will play together live, with thousands watching in real time. It's not just a fun match; it's a new way the NBA is blending basketball and creator culture. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo FaZe Rug and Jesser bring courtside charisma to NBA Creator Cup live stream While the players battle it out on the court, two familiar voices will be calling every play. FaZe Rug and Jesser, both massive names in the creator world, will serve as the event hosts and commentators. They'll talk fans through the game, from crossovers to big dunks to funny moments between plays. It's not a traditional broadcast. It's meant to feel fun, relaxed, and made for the internet. Before the big day, FaZe Rug said in a preview clip, 'This game is about love for basketball. But it's also for the fans who've followed these creators for years.' The NBA Creator Cup isn't just about the final score. With internet stars taking over both the court and the commentary booth, it's really about what happens when digital culture meets real-life hoops. It's creators stepping out of their screens and into the game and the vibe is completely different. Also Read: Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander says the real key is his trust in Jalen Williams Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
WNBA fines Sophie Cunningham for hard foul on Caitlin Clark during Fever game
Sophie Cunningham of the Phoenix Mercury has been fined for a flagrant foul committed against Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark during a WNBA game on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The foul happened in the second quarter of the game, which the Fever won 88-82. It occurred in the second quarter when Cunningham hit Clark while she was in mid-air during a fast break. The hit sent Clark crashing to the floor, but no flagrant foul was called during the game. The WNBA later reviewed the play and announced on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, that Cunningham was fined for the hard foul but was not suspended The referees initially called a common foul but upgraded it to a flagrant 1 after a video review. According to the league, the flagrant 1 was due to 'unnecessary contact.' Clark was able to get back up, take her free throws, and continue playing. This incident marks the second time in the past month that Clark has been involved in a controversial hard foul. In an earlier game against the Chicago Sky, Chennedy Carter body-checked Clark off the ball, which the league later ruled a flagrant foul. Live Events Despite the physicality, Clark continues to perform well. She finished Tuesday's game with 15 points, nine assists, and six rebounds, helping her team secure an important win. The Fever next face the Washington Mystics, while the Mercury will take on the Las Vegas Aces. Who is Sophie Cunningham? Sophie Cunningham is an American professional basketball player who plays as a guard for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA. Known for her aggressive play style, she was drafted in 2019 from the University of Missouri, where she was a standout scorer and leader for the Missouri Tigers. Who is Caitlin Clark? Caitlin Clark is a star rookie guard for the Indiana Fever in the WNBA. Drafted first overall in 2024 from the University of Iowa, she averages 21.3 points and 8.7 assists per game in 2025. Clark won Rookie of the Year in 2024 and leads her team's strong performance.
