Thousands join Wimbledon queue for world's top tennis tournament - see pictures

Thousands join Wimbledon queue for world's top tennis tournament - see pictures Eager fans camped outside and protesters dressed as giant tennis balls arrived early for the opening day of Wimbledon as the world's largest tennis tournament got underway Wimbledon is finally underway - and this year's tournament is already springing a few surprises. Fans were seen camping out overnight in the hope of securing a spot on the opening day of the world's largest tennis competition, with favourable 15C conditions and a cool making for a relatively pleasant queuing experience. More than 8,000 fans were in the queue by 6am this morning. Also outside the gates this morning were campaigners from Save Wimbledon Park dressed as giant tennis balls, protesting expansion plans that would see the complex add courts and seating on a former golf course. This morning brought news that top players have called off their media protest after talks with All England Club chiefs. The group of tennis stars, which includes world number ones Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka, had said they would limit their interviews to 15 minutes both pre-tournament and following their matches in the first week in a row over prize money Last night meanwhile saw confirmation that Britain's Emma Raducanu had pulled out of Wimbledon because of a stress fracture in her lower right leg - while seven-time champion Novak Djokovic is set to open his campaign against Wu Yibing today despite doubts over his fitness. We're also due to see the return of golden sisters Serena and Venus Williams this week, who have been given a wild card into the doubles tournament.