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There are two ways to watch the Wimbledon finals. You can settle into the couch with a cup of tea, or you can find yourself surrounded by hundreds of fellow tennis fans beneath the winter sun, cocktail in hand, strawberries and cream within easy reach, and the unmistakable applause of Centre Court echoing across Montecasino.
Fortunately, we chose the latter. On 11 and 12 July 2026, Amex Tennis Town brought Wimbledon Magic to Johannesburg, and we were there to experience all the festivities.
Hosted by American Express, Tennis South Africa and Equus Collection, Amex Tennis Town transformed Montecasino into a celebration of everything that makes Wimbledon one of tennis’s most recognisable tournaments. It wasn’t simply a public screening. It was a sporting festival that captured the elegance of SW19 while giving it a distinctly Joburg flavour.
The giant outdoor screen naturally became the focal point, with fans settling into deckchairs to watch every rally unfold. Between matches, however, there was plenty to explore. Families wandered through the interactive fan village where children could test their skills on a purpose-built tennis court, challenge one another in games and activities, or simply burn off energy in the dedicated kids’ zone. Meanwhile, Land Rover showcased its latest luxury SUVs, while Dunlop gave visitors a closer look at the equipment behind the game.




We were fortunate enough to experience the exclusive Amex Tennis Town Café, where complimentary cocktails, wines and refreshments flowed throughout the afternoon. The hospitality was polished without feeling pretentious, creating the relaxed atmosphere long associated with Wimbledon.
The culinary highlight belonged to Gemelli, whose reputation as a well-known Joburg Italian restaurant was on full display. Founded by Alessandro Mosupi Khojane, Gemelli has built its name on generous hospitality and comforting Italian food, and the menu reflected that approach. From succulent smoked beef ribs and rich oxtail rigatoni to grilled kingklip, Basotho lamb chops and wild mushroom gnocchi, every dish felt worthy of the occasion. Dessert, naturally, included the quintessential Wimbledon pairing of strawberries and cream, alongside sticky toffee pudding and berry cheesecake.
As the afternoon drifted towards evening, DJs kept the atmosphere lively while fans lingered over one last drink, one final dessert and the closing moments of another Wimbledon final.
Amex Tennis Town showed that watching sport has evolved beyond simply following the score. Done well, it becomes an experience – one that brings together top-level tennis, good food, relaxed hospitality and family-friendly entertainment. The result was a winter weekend that felt as memorable as the action unfolding on Centre Court.
If AMEX Tennis Town returns next year – and we sincerely hope it does – it deserves a place on every Joburg sporting calendar. Whether you’re a lifelong tennis enthusiast or simply looking for an enjoyable winter day out with family or friends, this is one event that serves up far more than just tennis.

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