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‘There Have Been Some Incidents Recently’ – Ongoing Worldwide Concern Prompts Wimbledon Officials to Issue a Firm Advice Ahead of the 2023 Championships

Published 04/28/2023, 4:23 AM EDT

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Climate change activists in the UK are protesting like never before. Their preferred targets recently have been sporting events. The tennis world witnessed a protest at Roger Federer‘s final competitive appearance at the Laver Cup, as a protester briefly lit his arm on fire. So far, protesters have also disrupted high-profile events such as the World Snooker Championship and the Grand National. Now, threats of another protest loom large over the 2023 Wimbledon Championships.

In the wake of increasing protests staged at various sporting events, organizers of Wimbledon have called on the protesters for their consideration. They have also reassured spectators regarding their safety and security. However, climate change activists seem intent on staging protests at events that will grab the world’s attention, and it remains to be seen if they will heed to the requests of the organizers.

Wimbledon organizers are working with various agencies to assess risks

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Recently, Sally Bolton, the chief executive of the 2023 Wimbledon, sat down for an interview with Metro. In the interview, she said, “I think the first thing to say is that front of mind and paramount for planning for the Championships every year is the safety and security of those attending and indeed their enjoyment.”

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She went on to say, “Every year we work with the Metropolitan Police and other agencies in planning for the Championships.” Bolton also revealed that the organizers’ will make security arrangements based on the risks and threats determined via a thorough assessment.

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Referring to the recent protests staged at sporting events by climate change activists, Bolton added, “There have been some incidents recently that will inform the planning we will undertake.” She also urged people attending Wimbledon to be considerate of others in the audience.

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How have climate change activists disrupted sporting events in the UK?

During the World Snooker Championship, an activist aligned with the Just Stop Oil movement made the news. The protester threw orange powder on the baize after jumping on one of the tables. Additionally, the protesters threatened the London Marathon. However, last-minute intervention from the organizers saved the event from being marred.

via Reuters

In 2022, animal rights groups made their presence felt at the Grand National. At the time, they made their way onto the event’s racetrack. They also climbed up the Aintree fences. The 2022 French Open semifinal encounter between Marin Cilic and Casper Ruud was also disrupted by a climate change activist. On that occasion, the activist tied herself to the net.

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Watch This Story: Serena Williams Makes Off With Wimbledon Pens And Reveals Her Mischievous Side

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Written by:

Sudipto Pati

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Sudipto is a Tennis writer at EssentiallySports. He completed his graduation in Journalism and Mass Communication in 2012. His passion for writing became a full-time profession in 2019 after working as a musician and travelling educator.
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Edited by:

Tony Thomas