Ramped up security at Wimbledon has seen guards confiscating unusual items from fans, according to reports. The possibility of a court invasion protest has been a hot topic leading up to the tournament, and organisers have taken drastic measures to keep the chances to a minimum.
Many tennis fans vented their anger on Monday as stringent security checks lengthened waiting times outside the grounds. Wimbledon released a statement advising supporters to stay at home after full capacity was reached early in the day.
According to The Telegraph, visitors to the All England Club now have to go through ‘airport-style’ security as police search for paint and coloured powders. The heightened action comes only a matter of days after England cricketer Jonny Bairstow carried a protester off the pitch at Lord’s.
A range of other items have also been added to the official banned list, which already included large national flags, political slogans and flares.
Now, security are also on the lookout for chalk dust, powder substances, cable ties, glue, chains and padlocks. Guards were also reportedly seen confiscating deodorant, metal water bottles and even sun cream.
All England Club chief Sally Bolton addressed the beefed-up security measures on Monday, telling reporters: “Of course we’ve taken account of what we’ve seen elsewhere so security has been uplifted in various places around the grounds.
With supporters stuck in stagnant queues pleading with Wimbledon organisers for answers after arriving early on Monday morning, hundreds have already set up camp to queue overnight for entry on Tuesday.
Andy Murray and Carlos Alcaraz are among those set to compete on day two of the tournament, while a determination to get in is also explained by Roger Federer’s anticipated appearance, with a special ceremony planned on Centre Court.
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