Longing for Wimbledon tickets? Imagine not needing one to soak up the electric atmosphere. Right here is Henman Hill. It is also known as Aorangi Terrace. This grassy bank has become a Wimbledon institution.
Henman Hill got its name in the late 1990s. British fans gathered here to watch Tim Henman’s matches. He was a four-time Wimbledon semi-finalist. The hill became synonymous with “Henmania”. People fanatically supported Henman.
The terrace was originally named after Aorangi Park. It was the London New Zealand Rugby Club’s grounds. They were here until 1981. Aorangi is a Maori name for Aoraki. That is the highest mountain in New Zealand also known as Mount Cook.
A new big screen was installed in 1997. This was after the new No. 1 Court was constructed. Henman’s popularity exploded. The site quickly became “Henman Hill”.
Since Henman’s 2007 retirement, the hill has been nicknamed after other British players. Andy Murray is another name that pops up. You might hear Murray Mound, Mount Murray or even Murrayfield. Murray joked with Henman that he could keep the hill. Murray could have all the grand slams.
Other names have been thrown around too. There was Rusedski Ridge for Greg Rusedski. Robson Green or Robson Ridge appeared for Laura Robson. Heather Hill was for Heather Watson. Konta Kop was a nod to Johanna Konta.
Emma Raducanu’s US Open win in 2021 sparked talk of Raducanu Ridge. Raducanu Rise was another suggestion from the public. But Henman Hill has staying power.
The hill is north of No. 1 Court. It is a popular spot for ground pass holders. They watch the matches on the big screen. Cameras often pan across the area during broadcasts. Journalists interview fans. Picnics are a must.
In 2022, Wimbledon even recreated Henman Hill in New York City. It was in Brooklyn Bridge Park. People could watch with views of Lower Manhattan.
Even though times change, Henman Hill remains iconic. It is a place where fans gather. They share the highs and lows of Wimbledon. The name might evolve but the spirit stays the same. So find your spot on Henman Hill. Join the roar of the crowd. Experience Wimbledon like never before.