Wimbledon final weather forecast as rare rule risks being used

Special measures could be implemented at Wimbledon this weekend with hot weather expected once again. It has been a tournament full of surprises and the final two days look set to provide even more top-class entertainment. The women's singles final will take place on Saturday before the men take to Centre Court on Sunday.

A new champion will be crowned in the women's showpiece match, with last year's winner Barbora Krejcikova having already been knocked out. Amanda Anisimova, who has never won a Grand Slam title, will face Iga Swiatek in a titanic battle for Wimbledon glory. It will be the turn of the men the following day, with Carlos Alcaraz going up against Novak Djokovic or Jannik Sinner.

It looks set to be another scorching weekend at SW19 with highs of 30 degrees Celsius expected on Saturday. The early evening is expected to see the hottest temperatures, but it will be very warm throughout the day with no chance of any rain.

Sunday will bring slightly cooler temperatures of 28 degrees, which are expected to hit Wimbledon in the mid to late afternoon. Interestingly, there is a 10 per cent chance of rain with partial cloud cover anticipated.

The forecast suggests that Wimbledon's rarely-used heat rule may be called into action on Saturday. It allows for a 10-minute pause between the third and fourth set of men's matches, or between sets two and three of women's matches.

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Breaks will only be needed if the heat stress index rises above 30.1 degrees. The heat stress index takes into account a number of factors including surface temperature, humidity and air temperature.

Measurements are taken via a heat stress monitor, with readings noted 30 minutes before the start of play and then again at 2pm and 7pm. If the weather cools and the rule is lifted, any matches already in progress will be completed with the rule in place.

It only applies to singles matches that are yet to begin and only one player needs to request a break for the rule to be implemented.

It was introduced in 1992 and only applied to women's matches until 2019, when it was expanded to include all singles events. It was used most recently when temperatures soared to 34 degrees at the start of last week.

In a statement, Wimbledon organisers said: "Adverse weather is a key consideration in our planning for The Championships, and we are prepared for the hot weather with comprehensive plans in place for guests, players, staff and the BBGs [ball kids]."

Those heading to SW19 this weekend will need to stay hydrated and take measures to protect themselves, such as wearing a cap or wide-brimmed hat. Medics will be on standby to treat fans should they begin to suffer in the crowd.

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