There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of popping a bottle, right?
In the Wimbledon men’s final, as Jannik Sinner was serving at 2-1 in the second set against Carlos Alcaraz, a Champagne cork unexpectedly spiraled onto the court, interrupting the game.
Calmly, Sinner picked up the cork and handed it to a ball girl.
“Ladies and gentlemen shouldn’t pop champagne corks while a player is serving; it’s just good manners,” officials announced over the speaker.
Ultimately, Sinner went on to beat Alcaraz in four sets, claiming his first Wimbledon title.
After the match, Sinner couldn’t resist joking about the incident. “Only at Wimbledon,” he said, clearly fond of the unique quirks of the venue.
While a cork landing on the court is certainly unusual, it wasn’t the only instance at Wimbledon this year where players had to remind fans of the etiquette regarding champagne bottles during serves.
During the women’s tournament, there were two notable moments that highlighted this rule. One broadcaster remarked it was the “Wimbledon warning you’ve ever heard” as a judge reminded players of the proper decorum.
These moments came into play, especially in a match featuring runner-up Amanda Anisimova and her opponent, Dalma Galfi, when a cork popping irritated Anisimova just beforehand as she was preparing to serve.
The traditions at Wimbledon are well-known, including the strict all-white dress code, and it seems spectators need to be reminded of their role in maintaining the decorum.
To prevent occurrences like those involving Sinner and Anisimova, it’s necessary for all corked bottles to be opened before being taken to the stands.
Anisimova expressed her displeasure about having the cork pop during her serve, while Sinner, basking in his victory, found humor in it. “It’s a very expensive tournament,” he quipped.
