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Wimbledon 2022: Sir Cliff Richard leads impromptu sing-a-long with crowd on Centre Court

Sir Cliff Richard entertains crowds on Centre Court (John Walton/PA) (PA Wire)
Sir Cliff Richard entertains crowds on Centre Court (John Walton/PA) (PA Wire)

Sir Cliff Richard delighted Wimbledon Centre Court spectators on Sunday by leading an impromptu sing-a-long of his hit Summer Holiday.

The music icon, 81, stood up in the Royal Box as he belted out an impressive acapella rendition of the song, which he first released in 1963, and encouraged the audience to join him, singing and waving their arms.

Looking the part, he sported a smart three-piece suit emblazoned with the tournament’s famous purple and green stripe with eye-catching gold buttons.

The Living Doll hit-maker accessorised his look with a matching tie worn over a crisp white, long-sleeved shirt.

Sir Cliff Richard really got the crowds going as he performed from the Royal Box (Getty Images)
Sir Cliff Richard really got the crowds going as he performed from the Royal Box (Getty Images)

Centre Court hosted musical celebrations before a full day of tennis on middle Sunday for the first time.

Veteran tennis broadcasters Sue Barker, John McEnroe and Clare Balding talked through 100 years of history on the court from 1.30pm, before British singer Freya Ridings performed to thousands of spectators.

The Royal box had been due to host Harry Potter author JK Rowling, but she pulled out last minute on Sunday morning because her companion, former tennis player Martina Navratilova, had contracted Covid, according to the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC).

Best dressed celebrities at Wimbledon 2022

A spokesperson said: “JK Rowling was going to be a guest of Martina Navratilova’s today, and unfortunately Martina’s agent has confirmed that Martina has Covid and is now unable to attend the royal box.”

Other famous faces in attendance at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club included actresses Sienna Miller and Daisy Edgar-Jones.