Wimbledon Centenary - International Society of Postmasters, Series 1977, Silver proof medallion, Franklin Mint. The Championships Wimbledon, commonly referred to as simply 'Wimbledon', is the oldest and arguably most prestigious event in the sport of tennis. The Championships were first played under the control of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in 1877 at a ground near Worple Road, Wimbledon.