Wimbledon, the world’s most prestigious tennis tournament gets underway on 30 June, but for those hoping to book their place in the main draw, the road begins today – Monday 23 June, from 11:00am onwards. The grass-court Grand Slam steeped in tradition, hasn’t seen a British winner since Andy Murray in 2016 on the men’s side, and not since Virginia Wade in 1977 for the women. As ever, British hopes are pinned on their own – and for some, the journey starts in the qualifying rounds.
Staged at Roehampton, just a short distance from the All England Club, Wimbledon’s qualifying tournament is a true test of grit. Three high-stakes matches stand between each player and the main draw – with intense pressure, high-quality opponents, and a unique atmosphere that many players say they relish. For this year’s crop of British hopefuls – many of whom are wildcards or making comebacks from injury – it’s a golden opportunity to impress on home soil.
Nine British players will take to the courts on this opening day, including four who kick things off at midday: Paul Jubb, Oliver Tarvet, Giles Hussey and Hamish Stewart. Later in the afternoon, at around 3:30pm, eyes will turn to Oliver Bonding, one of Britain’s brightest young prospects, who is just 17 years old.
Today’s British Matches – Monday 23 June:
- Paul Jubb (UK) vs Thiago Tirante (ARG) – 11:00 – Court 1
- Terence Atmane (FRA) vs Oliver Tarvet (UK) – 11:00 – Court 2
- Giles Hussey (UK) vs August Holmgren (DEN) – 11:00 – Court 3
- Hamish Stewart (UK) vs Valentin Vacherot (MON) – 11:00 – Court 4
- Tomas Vera (CHI) vs James Story (UK) – 12:10 – Court 3
- Jan Choinski (UK) vs Mark Lajal (EST) – 12:10 – Court 2
- Facundo Bagnis (ARG) vs Ryan Peniston (UK) – 13:20 – Court 1
- Alastair Gray (UK) vs Arthur Bouquier (FRA) – 14:30 – Court 3
- Oliver Bonding (UK) vs Jason Kubler (AUS) – 14:30 – Court 2
Among them, Paul Jubb is arguably the most recognisable name. A former NCAA champion in 2019, he’s competed at Wimbledon multiple times and is looking to reignite his career after injury setbacks. Ryan Peniston, who made headlines two years ago with a win over Casper Ruud at Queen’s, remains a dangerous player on grass. With his clean ball-striking and experience, he has the tools to trouble higher-ranked opponents.
Alastair Gray, another grass-court specialist, also has previous Wimbledon experience, having featured in the main draw back in 2022. Known for his powerful serve and love for quick conditions, Roehampton could prove a happy hunting ground.
Then there’s Oliver Bonding, just 17, who’s already attracting attention across the British tennis scene. A multi-title winner on the junior circuit this year and a product of the LTA National Academy, Bonding will face a real test in the form of Jason Kubler, a seasoned Australian with past Top 70 pedigree. It’s a tough first round – but also a valuable measure of the young Brit’s potential.
Last year, only two British players made it through qualifying. This year, twelve have entered the draw – a sign of consistent local interest and depth, even if reaching the main draw remains a tough ask.
