Former Wimbledon mixed doubles champion Jamie Murray responds to fan inquiries about playing at the All England Club, covering topics from racquet sizes to player habits.
New Delhi, India Jul 9, 2026 ALN: Sometimes it's best to have your Wimbledon questions answered by those who know the famous courts inside out.
So we put some of your questions on playing at the All England Club to former mixed doubles champion Jamie Murray.
Question: What is the maximum size of a racquet? James in Dorset and David in Llanwnog
Jamie: Most standard racquets are 27 inches in length. Some players play with longer ones, so a quarter or a half-inch more. The most you are allowed is 29 inches, but I don't know anyone who gets near that!
The dimensions of a racquet are not just a matter of preference but are regulated by the International Federation (ITF). The maximum length of 29 inches allows players to have a longer reach and potentially generate more power. However, most players prefer the standard length of 27 inches, which offers a balance between power, control, and maneuverability. The choice of racquet length can significantly impact a player's game, influencing their serving style and groundstrokes. Additionally, racquet technology has evolved, with many manufacturers offering racquets that incorporate advanced materials to enhance performance, allowing players to choose equipment that best suits their playing style.
Question: Does the heat affect the balls? Richard in Purley
Jamie: I think it does, yes. It makes them travel faster through the air and they probably will be livelier off the bounce, because the surface will be reactive. It definitely helps them to fly quicker through the air when it's hot.
Temperature and humidity are critical factors in that can affect gameplay. When conditions are hot, the air density decreases, allowing the ball to travel faster. This phenomenon can lead to higher scores and more aggressive play styles, as players can hit with more confidence, knowing the ball will carry further. Conversely, cooler conditions can lead to a denser air, which may slow down the ball and require players to adjust their strategies accordingly. Wimbledon, typically held in July, often sees fluctuating weather, and players must adapt to these conditions on the fly, making preparation and experience essential for success.
Question: What are the players looking for when checking balls at each serve? Margaret in Kent and Ann in South Yorkshire
Jamie: All players will take three or four balls to choose from before serving. The reason they do that is they are trying to find the newest, smoothest ball, because it will fly quicker through the air, which will help them with their serve and with trying to get more free points.
The selection of balls is a crucial part of a player's pre-serve routine. The balls used in professional matches are often new and have a specific bounce and speed that can significantly affect the outcome of a point. Players have their own preferences, and the feel of the ball can influence their confidence when serving. The smoothness of a new ball allows for a more predictable flight path and better spin potential, which is why players take the time to inspect their options before each serve. This practice also shows the level of professionalism and attention to detail that athletes must maintain to perform at their best in high-pressure situations.
Question: What do the pros do with last year's bag, and are their shoes custom-made? If so, do they get more width around the toes? Gordon in Newcastle
Jamie: I think most players take their bags home after Grand Slams, and either give them away or they get stored. With shoes, I don't think players get them custom made, I think footwear brands just make standard shoes and hope that the players like them.
Professional players often receive sponsorship deals from various brands, which provide them with equipment, including bags and shoes. After a tournament, players might choose to donate their bags to charity or keep them as memorabilia. As for footwear, while some players do have custom shoes designed to fit their specific foot shape and playing style, many rely on commercially available options. Brands invest heavily in research and development to create shoes that cater to the needs of elite athletes, focusing on comfort, support, and performance. The fit around the toes can vary, and players often have preferences for width, which is why brands offer different models to accommodate various foot shapes.
Question: Jamie Murray would wear sunglasses during doubles matches. Are all players allowed to wear them? Hilary in Leighton Buzzard
Question: Why don't professional players wear sunglasses? Jane in Wedmore, Rona in Helensburg, Alec in Leeds and Jill in Hampshire
Jamie: I don't know why professional players tend not to wear them. I wore them for 13 years of my career, to protect my eyes and help with all the glare in the sunny conditions we play in, particularly across Australia and the United States. The lens quality from the companies is so good these days - I don't understand why more players don't use them!
The use of sunglasses in professional is relatively uncommon, despite the potential benefits. Players often contend with bright sunlight, especially during outdoor tournaments like Wimbledon. Sunglasses can provide protection against UV rays and reduce glare, which can be distracting during play. However, many players prefer to rely on visors or caps to shield their eyes while maintaining a clear line of sight on the ball. The decision to wear sunglasses may also be influenced by personal comfort and style preferences, as well as the potential for them to slip or fog up during intense matches. As technology advances, we may see more players adopting sunglasses designed specifically for s, which could change the landscape of on-court fashion.
Question: Do the players use sunscreen, because I don't see them putting on? Richard in Plymouth and Jane in Northampton
Jamie: All players wear sunscreen, but they would apply it in the locker rooms before going out. They would never apply it as they walk on to court. Firstly, because they would just immediately sweat it off, and secondly because it would make their hands really slippy. Most players would then wear a cap so they don't have to apply sun screen to their forehead, which would be problematic if it dripped in their eyes.
Sun protection is a vital aspect of a professional athlete's routine, particularly in outdoor s like , where players are exposed to prolonged sunlight. The application of sunscreen in locker rooms allows players to ensure they are adequately protected without the risk of it affecting their grip on the racquet. Moreover, wearing a cap serves a dual purpose: it not only protects against sun exposure but also helps to keep sweat out of the eyes, which can be critical for maintaining focus during matches. The importance of sun safety has been increasingly recognized in the s community, leading to many players advocating for proper sun protection practices among fans and young athletes.
This article is the latest from the Ask Me Anything team.
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