Sarah Gilbert, lead scientist behind Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, gets standing ovation at Wimbledon -- Watch

The Wimbledon spectators also applauded the efforts of organisations that have contributed to Britain's fight against COVID-19.

New Delhi: Wimbledon spectators on Monday paid tribute to Sarah Gilbert, the Oxford University professor who co-designed the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, giving her a standing ovation on Centre Court before play began in the annual tennis tournament. The crowd also applauded the efforts of organisations that have contributed to Britain`s fight against COVID-19. But the loudest cheers were reserved for Gilbert as well as the staff of the National Health Service (NHS). Gilbert, who was seated in the royal box, was awarded a damehood in the Queen`s birthday honours earlier this month.