Dreaming of strawberries and cream, the roar of the crowd, and the iconic green grass of Centre Court? The chance to witness tennis history at Wimbledon is a bucket-list item for fans worldwide. Fortunately, your opportunity is here. The Wimbledon Public Ballot for 2026 is officially open, offering the fairest way to secure those coveted tickets.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From the simple application steps to key deadlines and what to do if you're successful, we have you covered. Let's get started on your journey to The Championships 2026.
How to Enter the Wimbledon 2026 Public Ballot
Entering the ballot is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to the rules. The system is designed to be fair, meaning your entry time within the window doesn't affect your chances. Everyone has an equal shot.
To apply, you must first have a myWimbledon account. If you don't have one, you'll need to create one on the official website. Once logged in, you can access the short ballot form.
Here are the crucial rules to remember:
- One Entry Per Household: Wimbledon strictly enforces a limit of one application per household. Multiple entries can lead to disqualification.
- Random Allocation: You cannot request tickets for specific dates or courts. Successful applicants are chosen randomly, and then tickets are allocated automatically from the best available seats.
- Sign Up is Key: Make sure you are opted-in to communications in your myWimbledon account settings. This is essential for receiving notifications about your ballot status.
Mark Your Calendar: Key Dates for 2026
Timing is everything when it comes to the Wimbledon ballot. Missing a deadline means waiting another year, so be sure to note these important dates.
Application Window
The ballot opened on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. You must submit your application before it closes at 11:59 PM BST on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
Notification Period
The anticipation builds after the ballot closes. Successful applicants will begin receiving notifications via email from October 2025. If you are chosen, you will have 14 days to purchase your allocated tickets.
The Championships 2026
The tournament itself is scheduled to take place from Monday, June 29, 2026, to Sunday, July 12, 2026.
What Happens If You're Successful?
Receiving that success email is a thrilling moment. It will contain instructions on how to purchase your pair of tickets. Remember, these tickets are non-transferable and cannot be resold.
While 2026 ticket prices are not yet confirmed, we can look at 2025 for a general idea. Prices ranged from around £55 for an early-round match on an outside court to over £350 for a seat at the Men's or Women's final. Be prepared for a slight increase on these figures.
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Didn't Win the Ballot? Don't Despair!
If luck isn't on your side with the public ballot, there are still other ways to experience the magic of Wimbledon.
The LTA Advantage Ballot
For UK-based tennis fans, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) holds a separate ballot for its Advantage members. The window for this has already passed for 2026 (it ran from July 21 to August 31, 2025), but it's a great option to keep in mind for future years.
The Famous Wimbledon Queue
A truly unique British sporting experience, The Queue offers a chance to buy tickets on the day of play. A limited number of tickets—around 500 for Centre Court, Court 1, and Court 2—are available daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Thousands of Ground Passes are also available, giving you access to the outer courts and atmosphere.
Ticket Returns
Closer to the tournament, a small number of tickets may become available through the official returns shop online. This requires quick reflexes, but it can be a rewarding way to find last-minute seats.
Conclusion: Your Shot at Tennis Glory
The Wimbledon Public Ballot is your best and fairest chance to be part of the world's most prestigious tennis tournament. The process is simple, and the reward is an unforgettable experience. With the ballot now open, your opportunity is here.
Remember to submit your single household application before the September 16, 2025, deadline. And if you're not successful, keep the spirit alive and consider joining the iconic Queue.
