Andy Murray Sees 2023 Wimbledon Getting Disrupted by Stop Oil Protests; Recalls Experiences With Court Stormers

LONDON, ENGLAND - Andy Murray of Great Britain reacts against Alex De Minaur of Australia during the Men's Singles First Round match on Day Two of the cinch Championships at The Queen's Club on June 20, 2023 in London, England. (Photo : Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Andy Murray thinks Wimbledon Open 2023 will not go smoothly and expect some protestors to storm the court.

The English tennis player referred to the incident in Ashes Test wherein a Just Stop Oil activist tried to disrupt the game by entering the field while carrying a gun with orange paint.

The protestor did not succeed after England cricketer Jonny Bairstow stopped him.

"I think there is probably a good chance of something happening," he told The Guardian.

"I am not sure how many times I have had somebody run on the court when I am actually playing. It may have been once but I am not sure it has been more than that."

Murray also shared that his family worries about his safety after the incident. He argued, however, that protestors need to be careful too in getting close to tennis players as they have rackets with them.

Read more: Caroline Wozniacki Says She Sought Advice From Serena Williams Before Return to Pro Tennis

He also acknowledged what the activists were fighting for but disagreed with how they expressed themselves.

Murray will take on the court on Tuesday for a first‑round match against Ryan Peniston.

Increased security at Wimbledon

Wimbledon organizers have taken more stringent measures for those who want to enter the venue.

Bag checks will now take longer than usual. Spray paint, sprays for personal protection, and glue are now also banned.

The tournament also called on players not to imitate what Bairstow did at Ashes for their own safety.

Related article: Andy Murray Says Wimbledon Poster Design Is a Disaster for Putting Female Greats at the Back

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