A Hill with a Hero

Of all the titles and triumphs Team Europe Vice Captain Tim Henman accomplished throughout his 14-year career, one cherished landmark stands above the rest: Henman Hill, a gently sloping, grassy amphitheatre situated north of Court 1 at Wimbledon where thousands of fans gather each year to watch the tournament’s biggest matches live on a giant screen.

The area has affectionately been dubbed Henman Hill since 1997 when the Oxford-born Henman emerged as one of Britain’s most successful and charismatic tennis players, and a strong contender to capture his national Grand Slam title.

The All-England Lawn Tennis Club recently announced that the popular fan area will undergo a redevelopment to improve the experience for spectators while preserving the spirit and traditions that have made it so beloved. The Club will complete this makeover for the 150th edition of The Championships in 2027.

Along with celebrating Oxford-born Henman’s hard-fought victories, the Hill has become synonymous with the British summer, with spectators enjoying strawberries and cream, chilled Pimm’s, and a uniquely communal Wimbledon atmosphere.

The practice courts and adjacent spectator areas form what is now one of Wimbledon’s most visited and photographed spots. In anticipation of the 150th Championships, Wimbledon will expand the Hill’s capacity by 20%, allowing even more fans to enjoy the buzzing outdoor viewing experience. As part of the makeover, spectators can expect more seating areas, shade structures, and improved pathways for better access.

Henman, a former world No.4, thrilled fans with his serve-and-volley style and nearly broke the British Wimbledon curse, reaching the semifinals four times between 1998 and 2002. As his matches captivated the nation, fans gathered on the slope outside Court No.1, waving Union Jacks and shouting “Come on, Tim!”

It was here that Henmania took hold, turning the Hill into a national rallying point. When the No.1 Court was redeveloped in 1997 and a giant screen was mounted to its side, the nickname ‘Henman Hill’ became part of Wimbledon folklore.

Andy Murray, who represented Team Europe at Laver Cup 2022, broke through to become the first British singles champion since Fred Perry in 1936 to win the Wimbledon title in 2013. He won it again in 2016, as many fans adapted the Hill’s nickname to Murray Mound.

However, Henman’s legacy remains firmly rooted in the area’s identity. Henman himself quipped many years ago that Murray “can have all those grand slams he’s going to win, but I’m keeping my hill.”