Top players have stopped doing media duties at Wimbledon. They are doing it to protest that prize money split. The 2026 event sees the same walk‑out, with players asking for one bigger share of the revenue. Because of the boycott the BBC has no player interviews and is scrambling for content.
Meanwhile Serena Williams is back on the Centre Court. Her return brings attention to 20‑year‑old Maya Joint and could also shine a light on Iga Swiatek. The day starts with protest on one side and a high‑profile comeback on the other, making the opening tense.