Why locals are struggling to rent their homes for Wimbledon this year

Why locals are struggling to rent their homes for Wimbledon this year: The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is changing its officials lineup for the 2025 grass-court championships, reducing demand that previously boosted short-term rentals near the grounds. Wimbledon locals say they could earn up to $26,000 during the tournament, but interest is reportedly lower after line judges were “axed.” The AELTC said it will not hire the usual 300 officials in 2025 or 2026; around 80 “match assistants” are being used, with Hawk-Eye technology handling most line calls. Residents near Center Court, such as Catherine Bailey, say offers have dropped and families have to keep homes minimal. The AELTC’s $260 million expansion plan—adding 38 courts and an 8,000-seat stadium on Wimbledon Park Golf Club land—faces opposition from Save Wimbledon Park.