Aryna Sabalenka aids fans during perilous Wimbledon heat

During the Wimbledon semi-final match held on July 9, 2025, between Aryna Sabalenka and Amanda Anisimova, high temperatures significantly impacted both players and fans. The temperature reached 31 degrees Celsius (88 degrees Fahrenheit) as fans seated in the sun-exposed lower tier of Centre Court began to feel unwell. Two separate incidents led to pauses in the match, during which a fan fainted and required medical attention. Aryna Sabalenka, currently ranked number one in the world, stepped up to the occasion by offering bottled water and ice packs to the affected individuals, exemplifying sportsmanship and concern for fan safety in extreme weather conditions. Her proactive gestures received applause from the onlookers, highlighting the importance of health and safety measures during such events. Notably, this semi-final marked a crucial stage in both players’ careers, with Sabalenka aiming to overcome past semi-final losses, while Anisimova sought her first final appearance. Both competitors were visibly affected by the rising temperatures, as evidenced by pauses in play and spectators visibly fanning themselves or wearing hats. The situation underscores not just the intensity of the competition but also the essential awareness surrounding the well-being of attendees at sporting events in extreme heat, emphasizing the need for precautions to ensure fan safety.