Pat Cash has confessed to breaking royal protocol during his 1987 Wimbledon victory celebration, an act that earned him a reprimand from tournament officials. The Australian tennis legend, then 22, famously climbed through the Centre Court stands to embrace his family and team after defeating Ivan Lendl in straight sets. That spontaneous celebration has since become iconic, inspiring many subsequent champions and prompting Wimbledon to install a dedicated gate for easier access.
Cash Reveals Wrist Slap from Wimbledon Bosses
Now 61, Cash disclosed during BBC's Wimbledon coverage on Friday that he was told off for his actions because Princess Diana, seated in the Royal Box, was kept waiting for the trophy ceremony. Reflecting on the incident, Cash said: "I did [have royals watching my match], I was climbing up the stands all those years ago. Princess Diana was there. I got told off because I kept the royals waiting by climbing through the stand, I got a wrist slap from the club." He added, "I promised to never do it again - with my fingers crossed firmly behind my back. But I never got the chance to do it again."
Princess Kate's Surprise Visit to Court 3
Cash's revelation came as he drew comparisons to the Princess of Wales, Kate, who attended a match on Court 3 on Thursday morning to watch British player Arthur Fery. Fery, 23, is the only British singles player to advance to the third round after beating Otto Virtanen. He will next face Belgian Zizou Bergs. Fery expressed surprise at the royal visit, stating: "I didn't know she was coming. I didn't know that, yeah, that was the case. So I can't really answer your question. Yeah, I mean, it's obviously an honor to play in front of her. Yeah, I guess if I'd known, it would have maybe made me a little tight."
Wimbledon's Evolution and Royal Traditions
The incident highlights the longstanding traditions at Wimbledon, where royal protocol has historically been strictly observed. The All England Club's decision to add a gate for easier access to players' boxes reflects how Cash's celebration changed the tournament's approach, even as they maintained their expectations for decorum. Cash's confession underscores the balance between spontaneous emotion and formal expectations at one of tennis's most prestigious events.
