Wimbledon celebrates 80 years of military stewards tradition
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 1:45 AM
Last updated Jul 1, 2026
Wimbledon is honoring its 80-year tradition of featuring military stewards during the tournament. Approximately 500 active personnel from the army, navy, and air force assist with various duties, including checking tickets and guiding spectators. The practice began in 1946 as a gesture of gratitude towards armed forces members who helped secure the venue post-WWII. This year, the event coincides with Armed Forces Day, with guests showing appreciation through a standing ovation for the stewards at the start of matches. Military steward Daniel Thornton shared his enjoyment of the atmosphere, describing the event as uplifting.
- •Around 500 military stewards are present at Wimbledon this summer.
- •The tradition began in the aftermath of World War II in 1946.
- •Military personnel perform various duties, ensuring order and guest satisfaction.
- •Armed Forces Day is marked with a standing ovation for the stewards.
- •First-time steward Daniel Thornton praised the positive atmosphere at Wimbledon.
- 1:45 AMYahoo Sports — 'Love it': Wimbledon's military stewards tradition turns 80
"At Wimbledon, stewards in military uniforms are a common sight in the walkways and even on courts, as hundreds of armed forces members volunteer in a tradition dating back eight decades.London Every year, Wimbledon marks Armed Forces Day -- which takes place on the last Saturday each June -- with the Centre Court crowd giving the military stewards a standing ovation before the day's first match.
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