Wimbledon 2026: How do celebrities get invited to the royal box?

A photo of Roger Federer sitting alone in the Royal Box at Wimbledon this week sparked questions about both. Seats are vacant in the tournament And how celebrities get invited to VIP seating.

The royal box was first placed in the South Stand of Center Court at Wimbledon when the ground originally opened in 1922.

Since then, the 74-seat stand-alone area has hosted celebrities, athletes, royalty and other famous faces on each day of the tournament.

Those invited do not have to queue or pay to enter, and are invited to lunch before the game starts as well as tea and drinks after the game. Those incidents took place in the adjacent clubhouse.

Guests were invited by the Chairperson of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) since 2023, former professional player Debbie Jevans.

While selecting the high-profile guests he takes into account the suggestions from the AELTC’s Management Committee, the Lawn Tennis Association and other tennis organizations and dignitaries.

Those who occupy one of the dark green Lloyd Loom wicker chairs in the box may include less recognizable faces, such as business partners, representatives, dignitaries and media professionals, as well as household names.

The British royal family is regularly invited, as well as other heads of state such as presidents and prime ministers.