Every year, Wimbledon uses tens of thousands of tennis balls to keep matches running smoothly on its iconic grass courts.
In fact, around 55,000 tennis balls are used over the course of the tournament.
These balls are manufactured by Slazenger, which has supplied Wimbledon since 1902, and they’re specifically designed to perform well on grass, slightly heavier and more durable than balls used on other surfaces.
To ensure optimal performance, Wimbledon tennis balls are replaced regularly during matches. A fresh batch is introduced after the first seven games of a match, and then every nine games thereafter.
This helps maintain a consistent bounce and feel for the players, as the balls can wear down quickly due to the court surface and the power of modern gameplay.
Between matches, the balls are stored in a cool environment to keep their pressure and bounce intact.
Once the balls are used in play, they don’t go to waste.
Many are collected and either donated for use in schools and clubs or sold to the public as unique souvenirs.
For tennis fans, owning a used Wimbledon ball offers a special connection to the event.
These are available through the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and official online channels, typically priced at around £5 to £10, depending on packaging and presentation.
The proceeds from the sale of used balls are often directed towards the Wimbledon Foundation, the charitable arm of the All England Club, supporting community and youth projects.
So, buying a used Wimbledon ball isn’t just about owning a piece of history, it’s also a way to give back. Whether displayed on a shelf or kept as a memento of the summer’s sporting drama, these balls hold a little bit of Wimbledon magic in every seam.
