July is one of the most exciting months in London’s sporting calendar. Bringing together international cricket, world-class tennis and elite athletics, there’s no shortage of sporting drama to enjoy, reports Jimmy Johnson.
The month begins with one of the biggest sporting events: The Championships, Wimbledon, which runs until 12 July. The world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament remains one of the capital’s great summer traditions, where athletics, immaculate grass courts, strawberries and cream and the all-white dress code for players combine with some of the finest tennis action on the planet.
Last year’s singles titles were claimed by Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek, and both will be among the favourites to lift the trophies again this year. They are expected to face fierce competition from the likes of seven-time champion Novak Djokovic and women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
Even if you don’t have a ticket to get into the All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon fever spreads across the capital. One of the best places to experience the atmosphere is Portman Square Garden, where fans can relax in deckchairs and watch all of the action on a giant outdoor screen.
Elsewhere, matches are screened in locations such as Merchant Square in Paddington, Covent Garden Piazza and St Katharine Docks, where crowds gather to enjoy a traditional glass of Pimm’s and all the excitement of the grand slam.
Cricket, meanwhile, takes centre stage on 5 July when the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final arrives at Lord’s. The ‘Home of Cricket’ provides a fitting backdrop for the culmination of the tournament, as the world’s best teams compete.
If seeing the stars of track and field appeals, head to London Stadium for the Novuna London Athletics Meet (18 Jul), the UK’s biggest one-day event. Part of the prestigious Wanda Diamond League, it attracts Olympic, World and European champions for an afternoon of elite competition featuring everything from explosive sprints and hurdles to the power of the pole vault.
The month’s sporting action concludes with The Hundred, cricket’s fast-paced competition where men’s and women’s matches take place on the same day. The capital’s teams are in action, with matches at The Kia Oval (21 & 29 Jul) and Lord’s (23 Jul). The final takes place next month at Lord’s on 16 August. Quick and exciting, The Hundred has introduced a brand-new generation of fans to the sport and provides the perfect finale to a packed month of action.
And, of course, there’s the FIFA World Cup football matches and the final on 19 July in New Jersey. Look out for fan zones and screenings all over the capital.
