How are famous faces invited into Wimbledon's royal box?

A photo of Roger Federer seemingly sitting alone in the royal box at Wimbledon this week has sparked questions about both empty seats at the tournament and how celebrities gain invites to the VIP seating.

The royal box was first installed in the southern stand at Wimbledon’s Centre Court when the grounds originally opened in 1922.

Since then, the 74-seater segregated area has hosted celebrities, sportspeople, royalty, and other famous faces on each day of the tournament.

Those invited do not have to queue or pay for entry, and are also invited to lunch before play begins, as well as tea and drinks following the close of play. Those events take place in the adjacent clubhouse.

Guests are sent invitations by the chairperson of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) which, since 2023, is former professional player Debbie Jevans.

She takes into account suggestions from the AELTC’S management committee, the Lawn Tennis Association and other tennis bodies, and prominent figures when selecting high-profile guests.

Those taking one of the dark green Lloyd Loom wicker chairs in the box can include less recognisable faces, such as commercial partners, delegates, dignitaries, and media professionals, as well as household names.

The British royal family are regularly invited, as well as other heads of state like presidents and prime ministers.

Who has been in the Wimbledon royal box in 2026?

Some of those who attend the royal box are given frequent invitations, and can be seen courtside most years. Regulars are often celebrities seen as serious tennis fans, such as Sir David Beckham and Sir David Attenborough.

Others are famous faces whose schedule allows them the rare opportunity to attend. For example, footballer Phil Foden, who was not selected in England’s World Cup squad, attended matches on Centre Court in week one.

While the list is often heavily populated by current and former athletes, actors and musicians, models and other celebrities are also invited.

A full list of the well-known names in attendance is published on each day of the Championships.

This article is the latest from BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team.

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