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Hugh Grant proved that even the biggest stars can succumb to Wimbledon’s famously languid atmosphere this week, as cameras caught the actor appearing to fall asleep during the quarter-finals.
The Love Actually star was among the VIPs seated in the prestigious Royal Box at Centre Court on Wednesday, joining fellow celebrities and members of the Royal Family for another day of thrilling tennis action.
Arriving arm-in-arm with his wife, Anna Eberstein, Hugh made headlines earlier in the afternoon when he was spotted chatting and sharing a warm exchange with Queen Camilla before the match began. The pair appeared to enjoy each other’s company as they took their seats just rows apart.
But it seems the intensity of the match, or perhaps the warm English summer sun, got the better of the 63-year-old star.
Footage aired on BBC One’s Wimbledon coverage showed Hugh with his eyes closed and head bowed just minutes into the match, seemingly fast asleep in his seat.
Fans watching at home were quick to spot the humorous moment, which soon began circulating on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
One popular post shared the clip with the caption:
“It’s all got a bit too much for Hugh Grant.”
Others were equally amused, with one fan writing:
“We’ve all been there. A glass of Pimm’s, a comfy seat, a bit of sun… and it’s nap time!”
Another added:
“Hugh Grant sleeping through a Wimbledon quarter-final is peak British.”
And a third joked:
“He’s just resting his eyes… waiting for the tie-break!”
Despite his mid-match doze, Grant charmed onlookers with his usual wit and good manners earlier in the day, stopping to greet fans and photographers outside the All England Lawn Tennis Club before heading inside. His wife Anna, a Swedish television producer, looked elegant in a classic summer dress as the pair settled into the Royal Box alongside other notable guests.
Wimbledon has long been known for its genteel pace and serene atmosphere, with many spectators over the years caught quietly napping in the sun during the tournament’s long matches.
For Hugh Grant, who’s currently enjoying a career resurgence thanks to roles in Wonka, The Gentlemen, and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, his impromptu nap simply added to his reputation as one of Britain’s most relatable, and occasionally unfiltered, screen icons.
As one fan summed it up:
“Hugh Grant napping at Wimbledon just makes me love him even more. That’s the kind of energy I aspire to.”
Wimbledon continues this week, with semi-finals and finals still to come, and all eyes on the Royal Box for more memorable moments.
