Break to love? Reports of ‘intimacy’ in new Wimbledon quiet space

It is supposed to be a space where guests can escape Wimbledon’s bustling crowds and packed courts.

But some amorous couples are said to be misusing a new dedicated quiet room at SW19.

Spectators have reported seeing sheepish looking couples emerging from the facility next to court 12.

One spectator said he spotted a man and a woman leaving the room with “big grins” on their faces on Monday. “She was in a long flowing summer dress and there was no doubt as to what they’d been up to,” he said.

Another guest visited the facility, which is made up of two adjoining rooms, and reported hearing “sounds of intimacy” coming from next door.

Most spectators are using the room for its intended purpose, however. A woman said she had been praying in the room and that she had witnessed others using it for worship too.

An SW19 staff member added: “I think it’s supposed to be for people wanting a five-minute break. I think it’s a good thing, I’ve seen elderly people going in there to take a break from the sun, people going in to pray, and mothers who want to breastfeed in private.

“But who knows if people are using it for the – not the mile high club – but the Wimbledon high club.

“I’m not sure how you would police it and make sure it’s used for the reasons it’s intended.”

The facility, which is new this year, appears in Wimbledon’s latest brochure.

“Located in the Southern Village, the quiet room is a space where guests can retreat for a moment of private meditation, prayer or reflection or simply to escape the crowds around the grounds,” its description says.

Each room has two armchairs, a foldaway table and charging facilities.

An All England Club spokesperson said: “Our Quiet Room is an important part of our efforts to ensure that Wimbledon is for everyone. This inclusive space is used for a variety of reasons including to support those with additional needs and to support any religious requirements or quiet reflection.”