Wimbledon 2025 opened beneath blazing sunshine and soaring temperatures — yet British tennis rose to the challenge. With 35 Brits entered this year, 14 were on court Monday, and seven secured first-round singles wins—the strongest home start since 1976. Among them were rising names, returning champions, and local favourites with strong ties to Putney.
Arthur Fery’s Breakthrough on Home Turf
Perhaps the most emotional moment came from 21‑year‑old Arthur Fery — a former King’s College Wimbledon student who grew up a short walk from SW15. Playing before a partisan crowd on Court 12, the wildcard showcased poise and grit, earning a four-set victory over world No. 22 Alexei Popyrin to record his first Grand Slam win.
He now moves into Round 2 against either Luciano Darderi or Roman Safiullin.
Emma Raducanu Returns with Confidence
Just across the grounds, another SW London star — Emma Raducanu — looked composed and sharp as she secured her first Wimbledon match-win since 2021, defeating fellow Brit Mimi Xu.
One fun moment occurred when a champagne cork bounced onto court, prompting Raducanu to grin and toast the crowd: “Glad you guys are having a good time — cheers to you.” She now faces 2023 champion Markéta Vondroušová in Round 2.
Cameron Norrie: A Steady Hand in SW15’s Backyard
Britain’s former No. 1, Cameron Norrie — a regular in Putney — continued his reliable form with a composed opening match against Roberto Bautista Agut. After four competitive sets, he sealed the win and now prepares for a high-stakes Centre Court contest with American Frances Tiafoe on Tuesday.
A Day of Upsets, Surprises and Statement Wins
Katie Boulter caused one of the day’s biggest shocks by toppling world No. 9 Paula Badosa in a thrilling Centre Court clash — a milestone win over a top‑10 opponent.
Sonay Kartal stunned 20th seed Jelena Ostapenko, marking the first time a British woman has beaten a former Slam champion in Round 1 at Wimbledon in the Open Era.
Also among the winners was qualifier Oliver Tarvet — ranked outside the world’s top 700 — who earned a blockbuster Round 2 showdown with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. Billy Harris rounded out an unforgettable opening day with his own confident advancement.
Looking Ahead: What to Watch on Tuesday
Putney will have plenty to cheer as the following return to court:
- Jack Draper vs Sebastián Báez
- Emma Raducanu vs Markéta Vondroušová
- Arthur Fery vs Darderi/Safiullin
- Oliver Tarvet meets Carlos Alcaraz
- Cameron Norrie battles Frances Tiafoe
- Katie Boulter, Sonay Kartal, and Billy Harris also return with winning momentum
Play kicks off around 11 am across Centre Court, Court 1, and Courts 2 and 3.
Sun, Sweat and Stirring Wins
With temperatures peaking above 32 °C, British players matched the heat in spirit and performance. Norrie’s steady presence, Fery’s breakthrough, Raducanu’s resurgence, and Tarvet’s dramatic debut made Monday a day to remember—especially for Putney’s tennis-loving community. If this is the beginning, summer at SW19 is off to a scorching start.
