Discover the Hidden Clinic Beneath Centre Court: A Look at Foot Care for Tennis Players

Wimbledon has once again become the focal point of the tennis world, and for Sal Afzal, a consultant podiatrist at The London Clinic on Harley Street, this year marks his sixth appearance at the prestigious tournament. Renowned for his expertise, Mr Afzal plays a vital role within the multidisciplinary medical team dedicated to supporting players throughout the two-week event.

The Role of a Podiatrist at Wimbledon

Each day, from 8am, Mr Afzal is stationed in his medical room located beneath Centre Court, ready to provide prompt care for players in need of treatment. Wimbledon prides itself on having a comprehensive medical team that includes not only podiatrists but also doctors, consultants, massage therapists, and physiotherapists. This extensive support is crucial for players who face a range of challenges, particularly considering that Wimbledon is the only Grand Slam tournament played on grass, a surface that can pose unique issues for athletes and their feet.

The transition from the hard and clay courts of the Australian, US, and French Opens can predispose players to increased movement within their footwear, which may not always be suitable for the grass, leading to risks of slipping or twisting injuries. Mr Afzal frequently encounters players suffering from corns, calluses, and blisters, conditions that are exacerbated by the demands of the tournament.

The High-pressure Environment of Treatment

Mr Afzal describes the gratitude expressed by players, regardless of their rank, as a heartening aspect of his role. He notes, “One of the biggest things that we find with all players, whatever rank they are, is they’re so grateful. The fact they’re getting free, high-level treatment is by the by.” The urgency of his work often means treating players just minutes before they take to the court, a task he describes as a “massive challenge.” He recounted instances where players urgently request assistance before their matches, stating, “They’ll say, ‘Saj, I’ve got to hit in 15 minutes, what can you do?’ You look at a patient and think, ‘whoa’.” In such cases, he performs a minimal amount of treatment to ensure they can compete, planning to follow up with more comprehensive care post-match.

Encounters with Tennis Stars

Mr Afzal treats a diverse range of players, from those starting their careers in the Wimbledon qualifiers to established stars on Centre Court. Despite the high-profile nature of his patients, he remains unfazed by their celebrity status, asserting, “They’ve got two feet and 10 toes. I say, sit down and do exactly as I say, and suddenly, they are on the receiving end, and they’re the patient.” This professional approach allows him to focus on delivering the best care possible.

What distinguishes Wimbledon for Mr Afzal is the “pristine” medical facilities available, which this year include a new gym, clinical zones, and cutting-edge technology. He expressed his appreciation for being part of such an esteemed event, stating, “It’s the place to be. It’s humbling to know they wanted me here.” His commitment revolves around ensuring every player, whether they are coming through the qualifiers or are established competitors, receives the best possible support to maintain their performance.

Moments of Light-heartedness Amidst the Tension

Although Mr Afzal’s busy schedule prevents him from watching the matches, he cherishes the lighter moments that arise. He fondly recalls an incident where players were playing football in a warm-up area. When he attempted to kick the ball away, his lack of finesse led to an accidental collision with his own head, causing laughter among the players. He humorously remarked, “This is a player that you think is very serious all the time, but he was actually on the floor in hysterics, saying to me, ‘Saj, stick to feet’.” Such moments remind him of the camaraderie and enjoyment that can exist even in a high-stakes environment.