RDA representative to perform important task at Wimbledon Final

RDA rider Philippa George to carry out the coin-tossing ceremony to start the ladies’ match

Wimbledon Finals weekend is almost upon us and 1.2 billion people around the world will be tuning their televisions to watch two of the most prestigious matches in the tennis annual calendar.

Traditionally, tennis matches start with a coin-toss ceremony to decide which player will start the match, choosing either to serve or receive. At Wimbledon Finals, the honour of performing this essential task goes to someone who has been nominated to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, which runs the event.

This year, the Ladies’ Singles Final on 15 July will see Czech player Marketa Vondrousova and Tunisian Ons Jabeur meet on the famous Centre Court in the decisive match to decide who will take away the coveted trophy. But before play can start, the all-important coin toss must take place and, this year, the platinum coins will be tossed by Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) member Philippa George.

Philippa, who is 27, has been riding with the RDA at its Park Lane Stables in southwest London for 15 years, and she currently has the vital role of inviting and welcoming new people to the stables and organising social events.

The charity, which provides riding lessons and other horse-related activities to people with disabilities or learning difficulties, was nominated for the ceremony by Jenifer Hewitt, wife of the All England Club chairman, Ian Hewitt.

The club was invited to put forward two charities – one for each finals day – by the Wimbledon Foundation, which was set up by Ian 10 years ago to champion opportunity for all within tennis. With so many people watching these high-profile matches, the ceremony provides a great opportunity to both recognise the work of the chosen charities and raise awareness of them in the wider community.

Park Lane Stables founder and manager Natalie O’Rourke MBE said: “Philippa is amazing. She is a great ambassador because a parent of a child with additional needs looks at Philippa and just sees that the future’s so bright. We’re so lucky to have her as part of our family.”

Prior to the ceremony, Philippa and her family will enjoy a tour of the All England Clubhouse and lunch in the Competitors’ Restaurant. She will then be assisted in her on-court duty by championships referee Gerry Armstrong.

As for Philippa herself, the excitement is building. She said: “I just can’t believe it and I can’t wait for it. It’s going to be amazing.” Watch Philippa’s interview here.

The Gentlemen’s Singles Final coin toss will be performed by Mu’awwiz Anwar in support of Water Aid.