The two-time champion questions the All England Club’s roof policy as fresh controversy brews on Centre Court

Andy Murray has taken aim at Wimbledon’s roof policy after the Centre Court cover was controversially deployed during Monday’s clash between Jannik Sinner and Grigor Dimitrov, despite more than an hour of daylight remaining.

Murray, who retired from singles earlier in the tournament, didn’t hold back. Posting on X at around 8.30 pm as the roof slid shut above Centre Court, he wrote:

“So ridiculous to close the roof at this stage of the match. At least an hour of light left… well over a set of tennis can still be played… It’s an outdoor tournament!”

The decision came just as Dimitrov, leading by two sets to love, appeared on the verge of closing out a statement win. Instead, he was forced to retire shortly after with a pectoral injury, but not before the debate around the roof reached fever pitch.

Murray’s criticism follows a string of controversial officiating decisions this fortnight, including disputes over line calls and automated technology. But this was a different beast: one that reopened long-standing arguments about tradition, practicality, and broadcast priorities at the world’s oldest tennis tournament.

John McEnroe, on commentary for the BBC, agreed with Murray’s take.

“They should have played a third set [before closing the roof],” said the former world No.1. “There was 45 minutes to an hour left.”

However, Tim Henman—former British No.1 and now a senior figure at the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC)—disagreed.

“Inside Centre Court, there’s less light. Maybe six games max before darkness. They try to close the roof at a convenient point,” he reasoned.

Wimbledon’s approach to the roof has evolved since the mechanism was first introduced in 2009. Originally, it was to be used only when rain left organisers with no choice. Now, the AELTC frequently opts for pre-emptive closures to avoid mid-set disruptions, or worse, stopping play deep into a deciding set.

While the roof takes just over 10 minutes to deploy, the additional warm-up period, the rush of warm, dry air to manage humidity, and the sheer logistics of resealing a live match all demand precision timing. The club insists that if artificial lighting is needed on Centre or No.1 Courts, the roof must be closed, primarily for player safety. Evening dew on uncovered grass can quickly make conditions treacherous.

Still, many in the sport — including Murray’s former coach Brad Gilbert — are raising eyebrows at just how frequently the roof is now used.

“This is day 8 @Wimbledon and the 7th time this tournament will finish under roof,” Gilbert posted on X. “Not for rain, but because of long matches — never seen this happen before.”

The deeper question, of course, is scheduling. Play on Centre Court doesn’t begin until 1.30 pm — far later than at other Grand Slam venues. Critics argue that starting earlier could reduce the need for late finishes and artificial lighting.

The AELTC’s reasoning? More play equals more wear on the iconic grass. Earlier starts also risk clashing with spectator travel schedules — not to mention the BBC’s preference for primetime evening coverage, when viewership peaks.

With long matches now the norm, not the exception, this is a debate Wimbledon can no longer avoid. And as Murray’s legacy looms ever larger — a statue is planned for 2027 — his words still carry significant weight on these hallowed lawns.