Wimbledon pundit Chris Evert left Clare Balding shocked as she lifted the lid on the perks of being a former SW19 champion. Evert lifted the famous Venus Rosewater Dish on three occasions and finished as runner-up seven times during her illustrious playing career.
The 69-year-old was appearing as a pundit on the BBC ahead of this year’s Wimbledon ladies’ final between Barbora Krejcikova and Jasmine Paolini. During a pre-match chat, she left Balding surprised by revealing that she was entitled to free tickets due to her status as a former champion.
“It changes your life when you win Wimbledon,” said Evert. “Unlike any other Grand Slam tournament, Wimbledon is so global. That was the year also I won that with Jimmy Connors and we were engaged and it was the love double and I was getting twice the amount of press because of that.
“It was very front page! Everywhere. But you go down in history and you get to be a member of the All England Club. You get free members’ tickets every single day. I still get free tickets every day, I love it!”
Balding was clearly unaware that former champions are entitled to free Wimbledon tickets and her jaw nearly hit the floor as she gasped: “Wow!”
Evert replied: “You didn’t know that? I get two members’ seats, and good seats! Everyone who wins this tournament.” Balding, eager to find out more, said: “Oh my God, you must have more friends than anyone,” with Evert confirming: “They pop up! They pop up out of nowhere.”
If a player wins a Wimbledon title, they automatically become a member of the All England Club which means they can enjoy a variety of special privileges. They are entitled to dedicated seats on Centre Court and special access to tickets in addition to use of the club’s facilities.
Former champions and members can also grab a bite to eat at the club as well as enjoying access to places to relax and socialise. Created back in 1868, the club is limited to an exclusive 500 full memberships including life members and honorary members, who are elected periodically by a committee.