Wimbledon, the prestigious tennis tournament, is making headlines with its proposed expansion plans that have garnered overwhelming support from the public. A recent poll conducted by YouGov revealed that 59% of Londoners are in favor of tripling the size of the Wimbledon site, with just 8% opposing the project.

The All England Club, the organization behind Wimbledon, aims to transform the SW19 site by adding 39 new courts, including an 8,000-seat show court on a former golf course adjacent to Centre Court. This expansion would increase the grounds from 42 to 115 acres, making it one of the most significant developments in Wimbledon’s 147-year history.

The proposed plans, initially submitted for planning permission three years ago, have faced resistance from some local residents who fear the transformation of community land into an ‘industrial tennis complex.’ However, the majority of players, including top-ranked Novak Djokovic, have expressed support for the project.

The YouGov poll, conducted both locally in London and nationally, further reinforces the backing for Wimbledon’s expansion. Nationally, 54% of respondents were in favor of the plans, with only 4% opposed.

If the expansion is approved, Wimbledon would join the ranks of other grand slam venues by hosting qualifying matches on-site, improving facilities for spectators, and dedicating new courts for community use. Additionally, 23 acres of the expanded grounds would be transformed into a public park, offering spaces for activities like farmers’ markets, yoga sessions, and Parkrun events.

Despite the opposition and controversy surrounding the project, Wimbledon remains committed to its vision for growth and enhancement. The outcome of the upcoming decision by the Greater London Assembly will shape the future of this iconic tournament and its impact on the local community.