Thursday’s Wimbledon event unfolded under unexpectedly warm conditions, leading to several interruptions during the match between Aryna Sabalenka and Amanda Anisimova.
During the initial set, Sabalenka and Anisimova experienced two pauses in their play, both stemming from separate instances where spectators in the seating area required medical assistance due to the elevated temperatures.
The first incident occurred in the fifth game of the first set. As the score reached a 40-40 tie, the game was temporarily halted while a spectator received attention in the stands. Sabalenka exhibited thoughtfulness by providing the fan with water.
Following the brief interruption, Sabalenka regained her composure, securing two consecutive points to claim the game.
Several games later, another pause occurred as a result of the heat. Once again, Sabalenka proactively offered assistance, delivering water to the stands for the second spectator experiencing difficulties due to the temperature.
The temperature at Wimbledon peaked at 84 degrees, with numerous spectators positioned directly under the sun’s rays.
These brief interruptions somewhat detracted from what was shaping up to be an exceptional first set. Sabalenka and Anisimova initially exchanged games before Anisimova seized the advantage, ultimately securing a 6-4 victory.
Sabalenka rallied in the second set, claiming it with a score of 6-4, thereby extending the match to a decisive final set. Following a compelling and closely contested match, Anisimova emerged victorious. She defeated the top-ranked female player with a score of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, thereby progressing to her inaugural Wimbledon final.
Subsequent to the two early stoppages, Anisimova and Sabalenka were able to complete the remainder of the match without further interruptions.
Regrettably, this was not the final instance of a medical stoppage during the day. The other semifinal match — featuring Iga Swiatek and Belinda Bencic — also encountered a brief pause early in the first set. With Swiatek leading 3-0, officials tended to another spectator in the stands who was struggling with the heat.
The delay did not impede Swiatek’s momentum. She delivered an outstanding performance, securing a 6-2, 6-0 victory over Bencic. With this triumph, Swiatek is set to face Amisimova in what will be both players’ first-ever Wimbledon final.
Apart from these three instances of spectator-related stoppages, there were no additional match delays during the women’s singles competition on Thursday attributed to the weather conditions.
