Wimbledon's 80 million pounds rainproof roof used to counter blistering sun!

London, June 24 (ANI): Wimbledon's 80 million pounds retractable roof built to protect the Centre Court from rain, was used for the first time to shield spectators from the blistering sun.

Some 15,000 Centre Court fans sweated it out in temperatures up to 92°F (33.4°C) as they waited to see British Andy Murray in action.

The roof was moved 5feet to put the Royal Box in the shade, cooling off guests including Prince Michael of Kent and rugby union bigwig Francis Baron. A canopy, which used to protect VIPs was removed when the new roof was built.

All England Club spokeswoman Sarah Hames said: "We're very happy its first use went successfully. The roof was designed for rain and bad light but it's proved to have more than one use."

The heat peaked at 3 p.m., with fans trying to shelter under hats, newspapers and even sweaters, The Sun reports.

First-aiders said 90 people had been treated for heat-related conditions including dehydration.

Temperatures had dropped a little by the time World No.3 Murray took to the court to play American Robbie Kendrick.

The Scot won 7-5, 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 while spectators basked in the evening rays. (ANI)