Top seed Novak Djokovic once again looked every bit the dominant player who has won the last three Wimbledon titles as he swept aside Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-1 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to power into the third round of the Championships. On Monday the 35-year-old, bidding for his fourth Wimbledon title in a row and his seventh overall, had looked scratchy during his opening win against Kwon Soon-woo but he was back close to lofty standards against the 79th-ranked Kokkinakis.

The Australian famously defeated Roger Federer in the second round of the Miami masters at 2018 but there were no signs of another upset during the contest on Centre Court as the 20-time major champion dictated terms from the start.

The Serb, who defeated Kokkinakis in straight sets during their only previous meeting seven years back at Roland Garros, broke his opponent`s delivery early in each of the three sets for a total of five break of serves during the contest.

Djokovic faced a lone break point on his own serve and closed out the victory in two hours on his second match point to set up a third-round meeting against either Chile`s Alejandro Tabilo or Serb compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiatek-announces-charity-event-for-people-affected-by-ukraine-war-492983">World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war</a>

Norway`s number three seed Casper Ruud was unable to reproduce his French Open heroics at Wimbledon as he was bundled out 3-6 6-2 7-5 6-4 in the second round by world number 112 Ugo Humbert on Wednesday.

Frenchman Humbert turned up for the match without any rackets and struggled in the first set but his high-risk approach started to pay off as the ratio of winners to unforced errors moved in his favour and he impressively took the next two. Ruud, who lost to Rafa Nadal in the French Open final three weeks ago, fought back in a high quality fourth set but Humbert, who reached the last 16 at Wimbledon in 2019, produced an excellent game to break for 5-4 before serving out to love.

Top seed Novak Djokovic once again looked every bit the dominant player who has won the last three Wimbledon titles as he swept aside Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-1 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to power into the third round of the Championships.

Top seed Novak Djokovic once again looked every bit the dominant player who has won the last three Wimbledon titles as he swept aside Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-1 6-4 6-2 on Wednesday to power into the third round of the Championships. On Monday the 35-year-old, bidding for his fourth Wimbledon title in a row and his seventh overall, had looked scratchy during his opening win against Kwon Soon-woo but he was back close to lofty standards against the 79th-ranked Kokkinakis. The Australian famously defeated Roger Federer in the second round of the Miami masters at 2018 but there were no signs of another upset during the contest on Centre Court as the 20-time major champion dictated terms from the start. The Serb, who defeated Kokkinakis in straight sets during their only previous meeting seven years back at Roland Garros, broke his opponent`s delivery early in each of the three sets for a total of five break of serves during the contest. Djokovic faced a lone break point on his own serve and closed out the victory in two hours on his second match point to set up a third-round meeting against either Chile`s Alejandro Tabilo or Serb compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war Norway`s number three seed Casper Ruud was unable to reproduce his French Open heroics at Wimbledon as he was bundled out 3-6 6-2 7-5 6-4 in the second round by world number 112 Ugo Humbert on Wednesday. Frenchman Humbert turned up for the match without any rackets and struggled in the first set but his high-risk approach started to pay off as the ratio of winners to unforced errors moved in his favour and he impressively took the next two. Ruud, who lost to Rafa Nadal in the French Open final three weeks ago, fought back in a high quality fourth set but Humbert, who reached the last 16 at Wimbledon in 2019, produced an excellent game to break for 5-4 before serving out to love.

Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic storms into R3 with Thanasi Kokkinakis thrashing, Casper Ruud eliminated

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko matched her best Wimbledon run as she beat seeded compatriot Anhelina Kalinina 3-6 6-4 6-3 in the second round on Wednesday. Both players had spoken of the strain of pursuing their careers following Russia`s invasion of their country and Tsurenko wore a yellow and blue ribbon on her white top. 
Kalinina, the 29th seed who described on Monday how her family home had been damaged by Russian shelling, opted not to follow suit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiatek-announces-charity-event-for-people-affected-by-ukraine-war-492983">World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war</a>

Tsurenko, 33, used her extra experience to wear down her opponent and move through to the third round against Germany`s Jule Niemeier who beat second seed Anett Kontaveit. Reaching the third round is worth 90,000 pounds ($109,000) this year and Tsurenko is donating 10% of her prize money to help her fellow Ukrainians affected by the war.

She is the last Ukrainian player left in the singles after Marta Kostyuk was knocked out on Wednesday by Zhang Shuai.

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko matched her best Wimbledon run as she beat seeded compatriot Anhelina Kalinina 3-6 6-4 6-3 in the second round on Wednesday. Both players had spoken of the strain of pursuing their careers following Russia`s invasion of their country and Tsurenko wore a yellow and blue ribbon on her white top.

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko matched her best Wimbledon run as she beat seeded compatriot Anhelina Kalinina 3-6 6-4 6-3 in the second round on Wednesday. Both players had spoken of the strain of pursuing their careers following Russia`s invasion of their country and Tsurenko wore a yellow and blue ribbon on her white top. Kalinina, the 29th seed who described on Monday how her family home had been damaged by Russian shelling, opted not to follow suit. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war Tsurenko, 33, used her extra experience to wear down her opponent and move through to the third round against Germany`s Jule Niemeier who beat second seed Anett Kontaveit. Reaching the third round is worth 90,000 pounds ($109,000) this year and Tsurenko is donating 10% of her prize money to help her fellow Ukrainians affected by the war. She is the last Ukrainian player left in the singles after Marta Kostyuk was knocked out on Wednesday by Zhang Shuai.

Veteran player Lesia Tsurenko flies flag for Ukraine in Wimbledon third round

Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek has teamed up with fellow tennis players Agnieszka Radwanska, Elina Svitolina, Sergiy Stakhovsky and Martyn Pawelski for a one-day special event to raise funds for people affected by Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

"Iga Swiatek &amp; Friends for Ukraine", scheduled for July 23 in Poland`s Krakow, will feature a mixed doubles match and a set of singles between Swiatek and compatriot Radwanska. Both matches will be umpired by Ukrainian Svitolina.

"For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war," French Open champion Swiatek said in a statement on social media&nbsp;on Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-iga-swiatek-nick-kyrgios-and-coco-gauff-proceed-ahead-492692">Wimbledon 2022: Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios and Coco Gauff proceed ahead</a>

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🇺🇦 Od miesięcy pracowałam z moim zespołem nad inicjatywą pomocową dla Ukrainy, aby realnie wesprzeć tych, którzy cierpią z powodu wojny. 
 
🇺🇦 For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war... 
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— Iga Świątek (@iga_swiatek) <a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek/status/1542100612619329536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"There will also be a special guest representing Ukraine - former (Ukraine) football player Andriy Shevchenko." Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". Swiatek, who is on a 36-match winning streak, has been vocal about her support for the beleaguered country, sporting a blue and yellow ribbon on her hat in recent months.

The 21-year-old beat Jana Fett 6-0 6-3 in her opening round match at Wimbledon on Tuesday and takes on Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove on Thursday.

Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek has teamed up with fellow tennis players Agnieszka Radwanska, Elina Svitolina, Sergiy Stakhovsky and Martyn Pawelski for a one-day special event to raise funds for people affected by Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek has teamed up with fellow tennis players Agnieszka Radwanska, Elina Svitolina, Sergiy Stakhovsky and Martyn Pawelski for a one-day special event to raise funds for people affected by Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. "Iga Swiatek & Friends for Ukraine", scheduled for July 23 in Poland`s Krakow, will feature a mixed doubles match and a set of singles between Swiatek and compatriot Radwanska. Both matches will be umpired by Ukrainian Svitolina. "For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war," French Open champion Swiatek said in a statement on social media on Wednesday. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2022: Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios and Coco Gauff proceed ahead 🇺🇦 Od miesięcy pracowałam z moim zespołem nad inicjatywą pomocową dla Ukrainy, aby realnie wesprzeć tych, którzy cierpią z powodu wojny. 🇺🇦 For months I have been working with my team on a charity initiative for Ukraine to support those who suffer because of the war... MORE ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/3MeOI3d1W1 — Iga Świątek (@iga_swiatek) June 29, 2022 × "There will also be a special guest representing Ukraine - former (Ukraine) football player Andriy Shevchenko." Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". Swiatek, who is on a 36-match winning streak, has been vocal about her support for the beleaguered country, sporting a blue and yellow ribbon on her hat in recent months. The 21-year-old beat Jana Fett 6-0 6-3 in her opening round match at Wimbledon on Tuesday and takes on Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove on Thursday.

World No. 1 Iga Swiatek announces charity event for people affected by Ukraine war

Seven-time champion Serena Williams suffered a second straight Wimbledon first-round exit as she was stunned by French debutant Harmony Tan in a late-night Centre Court epic on Tuesday.

A year after the American retired injured from what many feared would be her last Wimbledon match, her return had been eagerly anticipated but 115th-ranked Tan ripped up the script with a nerve-shredding 7-5 1-6 7-6(7) win.

With the Centre Court roof closed for the final two sets and the time approaching the 11pm Wimbledon curfew, Tan had one match point snatched away when the 40-year-old Williams served at 5-6 in a rollercoaster deciding set.

A weary Williams then appeared close to victory as she built a 4-0 lead in the `super tiebreak`.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-rafael-nadal-overcomes-scare-to-reach-second-round-492741" hreflang="en">Wimbledon: Rafael Nadal overcomes scare to reach second round</a>

But Tan, who had never played a Wimbledon main draw match before let alone against one of the game's greats on a fever-pitch showcourt, was not done.

Sticking to the slice and slow ball shots that had flummoxed Williams throughout an absorbing duel, she clawed her way into a 9-7 lead before sealing victory as Williams netted a forehand.

Williams, who had not played a singles match since retiring hurt against Aliaksandra Sasnovich here last year, went through every emotion in three hours and 11 minutes of drama and put her fans through the wringer too.

But in the end, a lack of match sharpness proved too much as another quest for a 24th Grand Slam title hit the buffers and the question is will she ever get another chance.

Tan, who had only ever won two Grand Slam main draw matches compared to the 98 won at Wimbledon alone by Williams, could hardly believe what she had done after clinching by far the biggest victory of her modest career.

"I`m so emotional now. Serena is a superstar and when I was young I was watching her so many times on the TV," the 24-year-old said on court. "For my first Wimbledon, it`s wow. Just wow.

"When I saw the draw I was really scared. Because it`s Serena Williams, she`s a legend. I thought if I could win one or two games it was really good for me."

`BETTER THAN LAST YEAR`

While defeat, which by ranking of opponent was the worst of her Wimbledon career, was a bitter pill to swallow, Williams said it was easier to accept than last year.

"It was definitely a very long battle and fight and it`s definitely better than last year. That`s a start," Williams told reporters. "I think physically I did pretty good. I think the last couple of points I was really suffering there."

Asked if she would be back at Wimbledon, Williams was coy.

"That`s a question I can`t answer. I don`t know. Who knows? Who knows where I`ll pop up?" 
Despite wildcard Williams`s notional ranking of 1,204, on paper the match looked like a mis-match.

The 24-year-old Tan had only chalked up nine Tour wins in her career and none on grass compared to the 832 for former world number one Williams.

But right from the start it was clear that statistics and reputations could be ignored.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-ireland-deepak-hooda-sanju-samson-record-highest-partnership-for-any-wicket-for-india-in-t20is-492711" hreflang="en">Ind vs Ire: Deepak Hooda, Sanju Samson script history with mammoth stand</a>

A succession of wild errors off the Williams racket handed Tan a 2-0 lead before she found some rhythm to move 4-2 ahead. But Tan, whose subtle game belongs to a bygone era, showed great court craft and broke the mighty Williams serve twice in succession on her way to snatching the opener.

Williams broke serve after a lung-busting 19-minute game early in the second set that had both players gasping and then saved four break points in the next game before rolling through the rest of the set as Tan faded.

Leading 3-1 in the decider Williams seemed in control but it was an illusion as Tan struck a beautiful backhand winner to break back for 3-3.

Roared on by the crowd, Williams broke again at 4-4 and celebrated wildly as if she had won the title, but again Tan showed true grit and broke back with another stunning backhand.

When Williams saved match point with a swing volley to get into a tiebreak, logic suggested Tan would finally fold.

But it was Williams who faltered with victory in sight.

Seven-time champion Serena Williams suffered a second straight Wimbledon first-round exit as she was stunned by French debutant Harmony Tan in a late-night Centre Court epic on Tuesday.

Seven-time champion Serena Williams suffered a second straight Wimbledon first-round exit as she was stunned by French debutant Harmony Tan in a late-night Centre Court epic on Tuesday. A year after the American retired injured from what many feared would be her last Wimbledon match, her return had been eagerly anticipated but 115th-ranked Tan ripped up the script with a nerve-shredding 7-5 1-6 7-6(7) win. With the Centre Court roof closed for the final two sets and the time approaching the 11pm Wimbledon curfew, Tan had one match point snatched away when the 40-year-old Williams served at 5-6 in a rollercoaster deciding set. A weary Williams then appeared close to victory as she built a 4-0 lead in the `super tiebreak`. Also read | Wimbledon: Rafael Nadal overcomes scare to reach second round But Tan, who had never played a Wimbledon main draw match before let alone against one of the game's greats on a fever-pitch showcourt, was not done. Sticking to the slice and slow ball shots that had flummoxed Williams throughout an absorbing duel, she clawed her way into a 9-7 lead before sealing victory as Williams netted a forehand. Williams, who had not played a singles match since retiring hurt against Aliaksandra Sasnovich here last year, went through every emotion in three hours and 11 minutes of drama and put her fans through the wringer too. But in the end, a lack of match sharpness proved too much as another quest for a 24th Grand Slam title hit the buffers and the question is will she ever get another chance. Tan, who had only ever won two Grand Slam main draw matches compared to the 98 won at Wimbledon alone by Williams, could hardly believe what she had done after clinching by far the biggest victory of her modest career. "I`m so emotional now. Serena is a superstar and when I was young I was watching her so many times on the TV," the 24-year-old said on court. "For my first Wimbledon, it`s wow. Just wow. "When I saw the draw I was really scared. Because it`s Serena Williams, she`s a legend. I thought if I could win one or two games it was really good for me." `BETTER THAN LAST YEAR` While defeat, which by ranking of opponent was the worst of her Wimbledon career, was a bitter pill to swallow, Williams said it was easier to accept than last year. "It was definitely a very long battle and fight and it`s definitely better than last year. That`s a start," Williams told reporters. "I think physically I did pretty good. I think the last couple of points I was really suffering there." Asked if she would be back at Wimbledon, Williams was coy. "That`s a question I can`t answer. I don`t know. Who knows? Who knows where I`ll pop up?" Despite wildcard Williams`s notional ranking of 1,204, on paper the match looked like a mis-match. The 24-year-old Tan had only chalked up nine Tour wins in her career and none on grass compared to the 832 for former world number one Williams. But right from the start it was clear that statistics and reputations could be ignored. Also read | Ind vs Ire: Deepak Hooda, Sanju Samson script history with mammoth stand A succession of wild errors off the Williams racket handed Tan a 2-0 lead before she found some rhythm to move 4-2 ahead. But Tan, whose subtle game belongs to a bygone era, showed great court craft and broke the mighty Williams serve twice in succession on her way to snatching the opener. Williams broke serve after a lung-busting 19-minute game early in the second set that had both players gasping and then saved four break points in the next game before rolling through the rest of the set as Tan faded. Leading 3-1 in the decider Williams seemed in control but it was an illusion as Tan struck a beautiful backhand winner to break back for 3-3. Roared on by the crowd, Williams broke again at 4-4 and celebrated wildly as if she had won the title, but again Tan showed true grit and broke back with another stunning backhand. When Williams saved match point with a swing volley to get into a tiebreak, logic suggested Tan would finally fold. But it was Williams who faltered with victory in sight.

Wimbledon 2022: Serena Williams loses to Harmony Tan in first round

The action continues at the Wimbledon 2022 edition as Novak Djokovic will play his second round match on Wednesday evening (June 29). The Serbian was off to a winning start in the 135th edition of the premier tournament, however, it wasn't an easy victory for the World number three player.&nbsp;

Djokovic, the defending champion, faced a stiff challenge from 81st-ranked Korean Kwon Soon-woo and overcame his own grasscourt rustiness to reach the&nbsp;second round with a&nbsp;6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4 win on Monday (June 27). On the other hand, his upcoming opponent Thanasi Kokkinakis&nbsp;went past&nbsp;Kamil Majchrzak 7-6 (7-5), 6-2, 7-5 to reach the next round.

Will Djokovic will be challenged once again or will the Serb go past the 26-year-old Australian without dropping much sweat?

Here's the live streaming details of Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022

Where will the Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;be held?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Kokkinakis match at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will be played at the iconic Centre Court, the main court at the Wimbledon Championships.

When will the&nbsp;Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;commence?

The Djokovic vs&nbsp;Kokkinakis clash at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will start&nbsp;at 6:15&nbsp;pm IST on Wednesday evening (June 29).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-knows-serena-williams-on-returning-to-wimbledon-next-year-after-loss-against-harmony-tan-492857">'Who knows?': Serena Williams on returning to Wimbledon next year after loss against Harmony Tan</a>

Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis&nbsp;match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Kokkinakis match at Wimbledon 2022 will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Djokovic vs&nbsp;Kokkinakis match at Wimbledon 2022 will be&nbsp;live streamed on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

The action continues at the Wimbledon 2022 edition as Novak Djokovic will play his second round match on Wednesday evening (June 29). The Serbian was off to a winning start in the 135th edition of the premier tournament, however, it wasn't an easy victory for the World number three player.

The action continues at the Wimbledon 2022 edition as Novak Djokovic will play his second round match on Wednesday evening (June 29). The Serbian was off to a winning start in the 135th edition of the premier tournament, however, it wasn't an easy victory for the World number three player. Djokovic, the defending champion, faced a stiff challenge from 81st-ranked Korean Kwon Soon-woo and overcame his own grasscourt rustiness to reach the second round with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4 win on Monday (June 27). On the other hand, his upcoming opponent Thanasi Kokkinakis went past Kamil Majchrzak 7-6 (7-5), 6-2, 7-5 to reach the next round. Will Djokovic will be challenged once again or will the Serb go past the 26-year-old Australian without dropping much sweat? Here's the live streaming details of Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022 Where will the Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022 be held? The Djokovic vs Kokkinakis match at Wimbledon 2022 will be played at the iconic Centre Court, the main court at the Wimbledon Championships. When will the Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022 commence? The Djokovic vs Kokkinakis clash at Wimbledon 2022 will start at 6:15 pm IST on Wednesday evening (June 29). ALSO READ | 'Who knows?': Serena Williams on returning to Wimbledon next year after loss against Harmony Tan Which TV channels will broadcast the Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022? The Djokovic vs Kokkinakis match at Wimbledon 2022 will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network. How to watch the live streaming of the Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis match in Wimbledon 2022? The Djokovic vs Kokkinakis match at Wimbledon 2022 will be live streamed on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

Novak Djokovic vs Thanasi Kokkinakis live streaming: When and where to watch Wimbledon tie in India?

Serena Williams didn't have a dream comeback at Wimbledon 2022 as the American went down fighting against France's Harmony Tan in her first-round clash on Tuesday (June 28). The legendary Williams entered the competition as a wildcard and had been backed by many to go deep in the competition considering her pedigree at Wimbledon, however, she failed to get past the first round on her return to a singles competition after almost a year.

Williams gave her all on the court against French Tan, who is known for his creativeness on the grass and is a fine talent. The duo played out a gruelling marathon encounter that last around 3 hours and ten minutes before Tan defeated Serena 5-7, 6-1, 6-7 (7) to get her campaign off to a winning start at Wimbledon 2022.

40-year-old Williams had played just two double matches in the build-up to her opening round clash against Tan at Wimbledon and the rustiness showed in her game on Tuesday. The seven-time champion was far from his best and had to make an early exit from the competition sparking rumours of her retirement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-found-themselves-in-a-tug-of-war-bid-to-replace-ball-boys-with-dogs-at-wimbledon-flops-492816">'Players found themselves in a tug-of-war': Bid to replace ball boys with dogs at Wimbledon flops</a>

However, Williams, who is known for her grit and passion, isn't looking to give up yet. While she hinted she was unsure of returning to the Wimbledon next year, she remained coy about her future in tennis.

"That's a question I can't answer. Like, I don't know. I feel like, you know, I don't know. Who knows? Who knows where I'll pop up," she said when asked if a return to Wimbledon next year is still on the cards for the 23-time Grand Slam champion.

"Today I gave all I could do ... Maybe tomorrow I could have gave more. Maybe a week ago I could have gave more. But today was what I could do. At some point, you have to be able to be okay with that. And that's all I can do. I can't change time or anything," she added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-serena-williams-loses-to-harmony-tan-in-first-round-492778">Wimbledon 2022 - Serena Williams loses to Harmony Tan in first round</a>

However, she confirmed she will be in action in the upcoming US Open 2022 later this year. The legendary American said she would feel at home in New York where she won her first Grand Slam title and feels she still has enough tennis left in her to chase a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam.

"It definitely makes me want to hit the practice courts because, you know, when you're playing not bad and you're so close. Like I said, any other opponent probably would have suited my game better. So, yeah, I feel like that it's actually kind of like, Okay, Serena, you can do this if you want," said Williams.

"Yeah, I mean, when you're at home, especially in New York, and the U.S. Open, that being the first place I've won a Grand Slam, is something that's always super special. Your first time is always special. There's definitely, you know, lots of motivation to get better and to play at home," she added.

Serena Williams didn't have a dream comeback at Wimbledon 2022 as the American went down fighting against France's Harmony Tan in her first-round clash on Tuesday (June 28).

Serena Williams didn't have a dream comeback at Wimbledon 2022 as the American went down fighting against France's Harmony Tan in her first-round clash on Tuesday (June 28). The legendary Williams entered the competition as a wildcard and had been backed by many to go deep in the competition considering her pedigree at Wimbledon, however, she failed to get past the first round on her return to a singles competition after almost a year. Williams gave her all on the court against French Tan, who is known for his creativeness on the grass and is a fine talent. The duo played out a gruelling marathon encounter that last around 3 hours and ten minutes before Tan defeated Serena 5-7, 6-1, 6-7 (7) to get her campaign off to a winning start at Wimbledon 2022. 40-year-old Williams had played just two double matches in the build-up to her opening round clash against Tan at Wimbledon and the rustiness showed in her game on Tuesday. The seven-time champion was far from his best and had to make an early exit from the competition sparking rumours of her retirement. Also Read: 'Players found themselves in a tug-of-war': Bid to replace ball boys with dogs at Wimbledon flops However, Williams, who is known for her grit and passion, isn't looking to give up yet. While she hinted she was unsure of returning to the Wimbledon next year, she remained coy about her future in tennis. "That's a question I can't answer. Like, I don't know. I feel like, you know, I don't know. Who knows? Who knows where I'll pop up," she said when asked if a return to Wimbledon next year is still on the cards for the 23-time Grand Slam champion. "Today I gave all I could do ... Maybe tomorrow I could have gave more. Maybe a week ago I could have gave more. But today was what I could do. At some point, you have to be able to be okay with that. And that's all I can do. I can't change time or anything," she added. Also Read: Wimbledon 2022 - Serena Williams loses to Harmony Tan in first round However, she confirmed she will be in action in the upcoming US Open 2022 later this year. The legendary American said she would feel at home in New York where she won her first Grand Slam title and feels she still has enough tennis left in her to chase a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam. "It definitely makes me want to hit the practice courts because, you know, when you're playing not bad and you're so close. Like I said, any other opponent probably would have suited my game better. So, yeah, I feel like that it's actually kind of like, Okay, Serena, you can do this if you want," said Williams. "Yeah, I mean, when you're at home, especially in New York, and the U.S. Open, that being the first place I've won a Grand Slam, is something that's always super special. Your first time is always special. There's definitely, you know, lots of motivation to get better and to play at home," she added.

'Who knows?': Serena Williams on returning to Wimbledon next year after loss against Harmony Tan

British tennis star Jodie Burrage's gesture for a ball boy on the court during her first-round clash against Lesia Tsurenko on the opening day of the Wimbledon 2022 was one of the highlights of the showpiece event. Burrage won hearts with her gesture as she came to the ball boy's rescue after he nearly fainted on the court during her match against Tsurenko.&nbsp;

Burrage lost her first-round clash against Tsurenko 2-6, 3-6 in straight sets but managed to win hearts with her kind gesture. The incident happened at the start of the second set between Burrage and Tsurenko on Court no.18 when a ball boy almost fainted.

The British player stopped the game and was spotted attending to him immediately. She offered him a Gatorade energy drink and some candies which were arranged from the crowd. The video of her brilliant gesture for the ball boy has gone viral on social media.

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Jodie Burrage (<a href="https://twitter.com/jodieburrage?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jodieburrage</a>) rescued the ball boy <a href="https://t.co/iROJ2fAi63">pic.twitter.com/iROJ2fAi63</a>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-to-ukraines-lesia-tsurenko-who-said-what-at-wimbledon-2022-day-1-492491">Novak Djokovic to Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko: Who said what at Wimbledon 2022 Day 1?</a>

Burrage later revealed the boy felt like he was going to faint which prompted her to attend to him and offer him some sugar in the form of a drink and candies. The British player said it was distressing to see the boy struggle on the court and that he felt better afterwards.

"He just said he was feeling really faint. He couldn't actually really talk. It was quite distressing to see," Burrage was quoted as saying by CNN.

"Just tried to get him some sugar, gave him a Gatorade and a gel. The gel is not the nicest thing, so they managed to find some Percy Pigs sweets somewhere along the line in the crowd, which he got down and then started to feel better," she added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-novak-djokovic-sees-off-koreas-kwon-soon-woo-to-win-1st-round-advances-ahead-492354">Wimbledon 2022 -&nbsp;Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead</a>

While Burrage lost against Tsurenko in the first round on Monday, British teenager Emma Raducanu got off to a winning start with a victory against Belgium's Alison van Uytvanck 6-4, 6-4 in straight sets.&nbsp;The legendary Serena Williams and women's top seed Iga Swiatek will kick off their campaign on Tuesday. Williams, a wild card entry this year, will face France's Harmony Tan in the first round.

British tennis star Jodie Burrage's gesture for a ball boy on the court during her first-round clash against Lesia Tsurenko on the opening day of the Wimbledon 2022 was one of the highlights of the showpiece event.

British tennis star Jodie Burrage's gesture for a ball boy on the court during her first-round clash against Lesia Tsurenko on the opening day of the Wimbledon 2022 was one of the highlights of the showpiece event. Burrage won hearts with her gesture as she came to the ball boy's rescue after he nearly fainted on the court during her match against Tsurenko. Burrage lost her first-round clash against Tsurenko 2-6, 3-6 in straight sets but managed to win hearts with her kind gesture. The incident happened at the start of the second set between Burrage and Tsurenko on Court no.18 when a ball boy almost fainted. The British player stopped the game and was spotted attending to him immediately. She offered him a Gatorade energy drink and some candies which were arranged from the crowd. The video of her brilliant gesture for the ball boy has gone viral on social media. Jodie Burrage (@jodieburrage) rescued the ball boy pic.twitter.com/iROJ2fAi63 — The Overrule (@theoverrule) June 27, 2022 × Also Read: Novak Djokovic to Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko: Who said what at Wimbledon 2022 Day 1? Burrage later revealed the boy felt like he was going to faint which prompted her to attend to him and offer him some sugar in the form of a drink and candies. The British player said it was distressing to see the boy struggle on the court and that he felt better afterwards. "He just said he was feeling really faint. He couldn't actually really talk. It was quite distressing to see," Burrage was quoted as saying by CNN. "Just tried to get him some sugar, gave him a Gatorade and a gel. The gel is not the nicest thing, so they managed to find some Percy Pigs sweets somewhere along the line in the crowd, which he got down and then started to feel better," she added. Also Read: Wimbledon 2022 - Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead While Burrage lost against Tsurenko in the first round on Monday, British teenager Emma Raducanu got off to a winning start with a victory against Belgium's Alison van Uytvanck 6-4, 6-4 in straight sets. The legendary Serena Williams and women's top seed Iga Swiatek will kick off their campaign on Tuesday. Williams, a wild card entry this year, will face France's Harmony Tan in the first round.

WATCH: British tennis star Jodie Burrage offers drink, candy to ball boy who nearly fainted at Wimbledon

It was an enthralling opening day at Wimbledon 2022 as the showpiece event got underway at the All England Club on Monday (June 27). Serbian ace Nova Djokovic got off to a winning start headling Day 1 as he got the better of Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to progress to the second round. Spanish teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz also registered a victory in his 1st round clash against Jan-Lennard Struff.

British teenager Emma Raducanu made her centre court debut on Monday against Belgian Alison van Uytvanck and defeated her 6-4, 6-4 in straight sets to make a flying start. Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko defeated Britisher Jodie Anna Burrage to progress to the second round where she will be up against Ukraine compatriot Anhelina Kalinina.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-novak-djokovic-sees-off-koreas-kwon-soon-woo-to-win-1st-round-advances-ahead-492354">Wimbledon 2022 -&nbsp;Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead</a>

Here is a look at who said what on Day 1 at Wimbledon 2022:

After winning his first-round clash against Kwon Soon-woo, Novak Djokovic opened up on a video he posted on Instagram of repairing a garden trampoline which left his son bemused. Djokovic said for his son, anyone competing in the Wimbledon is almost like a superhero.

"For him anyone playing in Wimbledon is a superhero. He saw these big guys that have muscles, my fitness coach, tennis coach, and he couldn't understand how is it that we can't fix a trampoline and we're playing at Wimbledon," said Djokovic.

British tennis player Jody Burrage came to the rescue of a ball boy who nearly fainted on the court. Here's what she had to say after giving him a drink and some candy.

"They managed to find some Percy Pigs somewhere along the line in the crowd, which he got down and then started to feel better."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-carlos-alcaraz-survives-five-set-whirlwind-against-jan-lennard-struff-to-reach-2nd-round-492467">Carlos Alcaraz survives five-set whirlwind against Jan-Lennard Struff to reach 2nd round</a>

Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko got the better of Burrage in her first-round match and is not set to be up against her Ukraine compatriot Anhelina Kalinina in the next round.

"The main thing that I would wish to happen, that we get a lot of heavy weapons. We are here and we are playing for my country, for Ukraine. We just want to remind that Ukraine is in trouble and we need help."

Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis, who will now face Novak Djokovic in the second round after defeating Kamil Majchrzak in the first round.

"Novak is kind of a brick wall."

&nbsp;

It was an enthralling opening day at Wimbledon 2022 as the showpiece event got underway at the All England Club on Monday (June 27). Serbian ace Nova Djokovic got off to a winning start headling Day 1 as he got the better of Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to progress to the second round.

It was an enthralling opening day at Wimbledon 2022 as the showpiece event got underway at the All England Club on Monday (June 27). Serbian ace Nova Djokovic got off to a winning start headling Day 1 as he got the better of Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to progress to the second round. Spanish teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz also registered a victory in his 1st round clash against Jan-Lennard Struff. British teenager Emma Raducanu made her centre court debut on Monday against Belgian Alison van Uytvanck and defeated her 6-4, 6-4 in straight sets to make a flying start. Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko defeated Britisher Jodie Anna Burrage to progress to the second round where she will be up against Ukraine compatriot Anhelina Kalinina. Also Read: Wimbledon 2022 - Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead Here is a look at who said what on Day 1 at Wimbledon 2022: After winning his first-round clash against Kwon Soon-woo, Novak Djokovic opened up on a video he posted on Instagram of repairing a garden trampoline which left his son bemused. Djokovic said for his son, anyone competing in the Wimbledon is almost like a superhero. "For him anyone playing in Wimbledon is a superhero. He saw these big guys that have muscles, my fitness coach, tennis coach, and he couldn't understand how is it that we can't fix a trampoline and we're playing at Wimbledon," said Djokovic. British tennis player Jody Burrage came to the rescue of a ball boy who nearly fainted on the court. Here's what she had to say after giving him a drink and some candy. "They managed to find some Percy Pigs somewhere along the line in the crowd, which he got down and then started to feel better." Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz survives five-set whirlwind against Jan-Lennard Struff to reach 2nd round Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko got the better of Burrage in her first-round match and is not set to be up against her Ukraine compatriot Anhelina Kalinina in the next round. "The main thing that I would wish to happen, that we get a lot of heavy weapons. We are here and we are playing for my country, for Ukraine. We just want to remind that Ukraine is in trouble and we need help." Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis, who will now face Novak Djokovic in the second round after defeating Kamil Majchrzak in the first round. "Novak is kind of a brick wall."

Novak Djokovic to Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko: Who said what at Wimbledon 2022 Day 1?

It might not have been the workout Carlos Alcaraz was hoping for as he nursed a sore elbow but the Spaniard showed why he is considered the next big thing as he toppled Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6 7-5 4-6 7-6(3) 6-4 in the Wimbledon first round.

The 19-year-old has enjoyed an incredible season on clay and hardcourts -- winning titles in Rio, Miami, Barcelona and Madrid -- and on Monday he proved he has the skills and mental belief to succeed on the sport`s slickest surface.

Despite still being a grasscourt novice, fifth seed Alcaraz did not let German Struff`s 218kph hurtling serves or the disappointment of losing two of the opening three sets faze him.

Facing an opponent he described as "big serve, big shots", Alcaraz kept his nerve to fire down 30 aces and produced an assortment of breathtaking passing shots to secure only his second ever win on grass.

"I feel pretty good, playing here is amazing," the beaming teenager, whose debut appearance at Wimbledon ended in the second round 12 months ago, told the crowd.

"I didn`t expect to move as well as I did today. I don`t know how I did this (hit 30 aces) as this is probably my best match serving.

"This means I like to play on grass and I don`t want to leave the court."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-novak-djokovic-sees-off-koreas-kwon-soon-woo-to-win-1st-round-advances-ahead-492354">Wimbledon 2022 - Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead</a>

In their only previous meeting, Struff beat Alcaraz in straight sets in the third round at last year`s Roland Garros. But since that showdown, their careers have headed in opposite directions.

While Alcaraz shot up 90 spots in the rankings to break into the top 10, Struff`s fortunes have nosedived and this month he dropped outside the top 100 for the first time in five years.

But during Monday`s opening exchanges, few would have guessed that Struff only classified as the 155th best player in the world.

With the balls flying off the lush green surface of Court One, Alcaraz was left rolling his eyes time and again as he kept coming off second best in the fast-paced exchanges with the 32-year-old German.

But what the grasscourt novice lacked in experience, he more than made up for with his determination to succeed. 
"Here everything (is) going faster. I don`t go fast to the net," said the youngest player in the men`s draw who will next meet Dutch journeyman Tallon Griekspoor.

"I would say my level on grass has to improve a little bit. I`m not experienced player on grass. For me ... (it) is more difficult to move on grass than the other surfaces."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/norways-casper-ruud-registers-maiden-wimbledon-win-beats-spaniard-albert-ramos-vinolas-in-r1-492368">Norway's Casper Ruud registers maiden Wimbledon win, beats Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in R1</a>

Being forced to skip the Wimbledon warm-up tournaments with an elbow injury did not help the Spaniard`s cause, but the way he hung in for four hours and 11 minutes to keep alive his Wimbledon dreams proved a point to him -- and his rivals.

"Great battle, four hours ... I enjoyed (it). For me playing on grass is so beautiful. I like to play on grass."

It might not have been the workout Carlos Alcaraz was hoping for as he nursed a sore elbow but the Spaniard showed why he is considered the next big thing as he toppled Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6 7-5 4-6 7-6(3) 6-4 in the Wimbledon first round.

It might not have been the workout Carlos Alcaraz was hoping for as he nursed a sore elbow but the Spaniard showed why he is considered the next big thing as he toppled Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6 7-5 4-6 7-6(3) 6-4 in the Wimbledon first round. The 19-year-old has enjoyed an incredible season on clay and hardcourts -- winning titles in Rio, Miami, Barcelona and Madrid -- and on Monday he proved he has the skills and mental belief to succeed on the sport`s slickest surface. Despite still being a grasscourt novice, fifth seed Alcaraz did not let German Struff`s 218kph hurtling serves or the disappointment of losing two of the opening three sets faze him. Facing an opponent he described as "big serve, big shots", Alcaraz kept his nerve to fire down 30 aces and produced an assortment of breathtaking passing shots to secure only his second ever win on grass. "I feel pretty good, playing here is amazing," the beaming teenager, whose debut appearance at Wimbledon ended in the second round 12 months ago, told the crowd. "I didn`t expect to move as well as I did today. I don`t know how I did this (hit 30 aces) as this is probably my best match serving. "This means I like to play on grass and I don`t want to leave the court." Also Read: Wimbledon 2022 - Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead In their only previous meeting, Struff beat Alcaraz in straight sets in the third round at last year`s Roland Garros. But since that showdown, their careers have headed in opposite directions. While Alcaraz shot up 90 spots in the rankings to break into the top 10, Struff`s fortunes have nosedived and this month he dropped outside the top 100 for the first time in five years. But during Monday`s opening exchanges, few would have guessed that Struff only classified as the 155th best player in the world. With the balls flying off the lush green surface of Court One, Alcaraz was left rolling his eyes time and again as he kept coming off second best in the fast-paced exchanges with the 32-year-old German. But what the grasscourt novice lacked in experience, he more than made up for with his determination to succeed. "Here everything (is) going faster. I don`t go fast to the net," said the youngest player in the men`s draw who will next meet Dutch journeyman Tallon Griekspoor. "I would say my level on grass has to improve a little bit. I`m not experienced player on grass. For me ... (it) is more difficult to move on grass than the other surfaces." Also Read: Norway's Casper Ruud registers maiden Wimbledon win, beats Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in R1 Being forced to skip the Wimbledon warm-up tournaments with an elbow injury did not help the Spaniard`s cause, but the way he hung in for four hours and 11 minutes to keep alive his Wimbledon dreams proved a point to him -- and his rivals. "Great battle, four hours ... I enjoyed (it). For me playing on grass is so beautiful. I like to play on grass."

Wimbledon: Carlos Alcaraz survives five-set whirlwind against Jan-Lennard Struff to reach 2nd round

Nick Kyrgios always makes heads turn when he is on the court. During his opening match at Wimbledon 2022, on Tuesday (June 28), Kyrgios was up against British star&nbsp;Paul Jubb when&nbsp;a huge controversy erupted as the Australian accused the 'racial slurs' and even ranted at the umpire about it.&nbsp;

In the middle of the match against Jubb, Kyrgios suddenly stopped proceedings&nbsp;after he was visibly upset and smashed the ball out of the court after a broken serve in the opening set,&nbsp;which he eventually conceded 3-6 to Jubb. The 27-year-old&nbsp;then slammed&nbsp;the linesman and even went ahead by calling him a 'snitch'. While he was fined for his&nbsp;action,&nbsp;Kyrgios ranted at the umpire and accused the crowd of&nbsp;hurling racial abuses at him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-iga-swiatek-nick-kyrgios-and-coco-gauff-proceed-ahead-492692">Wimbledon 2022: Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios and Coco Gauff proceed ahead</a>

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Kyrgios giving it the full kyrgios today 
 
You love to see it you really do 🤣 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> <a href="https://t.co/kO1OSNQKQ6">pic.twitter.com/kO1OSNQKQ6</a>
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During his complain, he told the umpire Marija Cicak,&nbsp;"You have to tell them. They're spectators. They don't have any right to do that. They're spectators who spend money to come watch us play. They should be removed," the Australian tennis player opined.

It didn't stop there itself. Kyrgios added that such a behaviour from the crowd is unacceptable and questioned the umpire. The youngster further mentioned that he would've reacted in a similar manner had his opponent Jubb being subjected to racial abuse.&nbsp;"So pure disrespect from a spectator to an athlete is acceptable at Wimbledon? But you don't accept a hat with two logos? When's the line? That's acceptable, racism is acceptable so when does it stop? So where's the line? It's been happening for years. If they were making racial slurs to him [Jubb] I would say the same thing," Kyrgios&nbsp;said.

The Aussie had accused of racial abuse even during the&nbsp;Stuttgart Open, held early this month, when he was up against Great Britian's Andy Murray. Talking about his opening tie in Wimbledon today, he defeated Jubb&nbsp;3-6 6-1 7-5 6-7(3) 7-5 to proceed ahead in the showpiece event.&nbsp;

Nick Kyrgios always makes heads turn when he is on the court. During his opening match at Wimbledon 2022, on Tuesday (June 28), Kyrgios was up against British star Paul Jubb when a huge controversy erupted as the Australian accused the 'racial slurs' and even ranted at the umpire about it.

Nick Kyrgios always makes heads turn when he is on the court. During his opening match at Wimbledon 2022, on Tuesday (June 28), Kyrgios was up against British star Paul Jubb when a huge controversy erupted as the Australian accused the 'racial slurs' and even ranted at the umpire about it. In the middle of the match against Jubb, Kyrgios suddenly stopped proceedings after he was visibly upset and smashed the ball out of the court after a broken serve in the opening set, which he eventually conceded 3-6 to Jubb. The 27-year-old then slammed the linesman and even went ahead by calling him a 'snitch'. While he was fined for his action, Kyrgios ranted at the umpire and accused the crowd of hurling racial abuses at him. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2022: Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios and Coco Gauff proceed ahead Kyrgios giving it the full kyrgios today You love to see it you really do 🤣 #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/kO1OSNQKQ6 — benslife (@benslife1) June 28, 2022 × During his complain, he told the umpire Marija Cicak, "You have to tell them. They're spectators. They don't have any right to do that. They're spectators who spend money to come watch us play. They should be removed," the Australian tennis player opined. It didn't stop there itself. Kyrgios added that such a behaviour from the crowd is unacceptable and questioned the umpire. The youngster further mentioned that he would've reacted in a similar manner had his opponent Jubb being subjected to racial abuse. "So pure disrespect from a spectator to an athlete is acceptable at Wimbledon? But you don't accept a hat with two logos? When's the line? That's acceptable, racism is acceptable so when does it stop? So where's the line? It's been happening for years. If they were making racial slurs to him [Jubb] I would say the same thing," Kyrgios said. The Aussie had accused of racial abuse even during the Stuttgart Open, held early this month, when he was up against Great Britian's Andy Murray. Talking about his opening tie in Wimbledon today, he defeated Jubb 3-6 6-1 7-5 6-7(3) 7-5 to proceed ahead in the showpiece event.

WATCH: Controversy erupts! Kyrgios accuses crowd of 'racial slurs', rants at umpire in R1 of Wimbledon

World number one Iga Swiatek recovered from a dip in her level in the second set to see off Croatian qualifier Jana Fett 6-0 6-3 in the Wimbledon first round on Tuesday and extend her winning run to 36 matches. The 2018 junior champion, who exited the grasscourt Grand Slam in the fourth round last year, had the honour of opening the second day`s play on Centre Court in the absence of the retired Ash Barty who won the 2021 title.

Playing her first match since winning a second French Open title this month, Poland`s Swiatek powered through the opening set without losing a game -- registering a 6-0 set for the 17th time this year -- despite a stiff breeze swirling through the main show court. A litany of unforced errors, including a double fault, however, led to Swiatek dropping serve at the start of the second set, allowing the 25-year-old Fett, ranked 252nd in the world, to get on the scoreboard.

Swiatek, who played with a ribbon in Ukrainian colours pinned to her cap as she did during her Roland Garros campaign, broke back immediately -- only to hand back the advantage in her next service game. 
The Pole`s struggles with her delivery continued as she had to save five break points to hold serve for the first time in the second set to get to 2-3 and stay in touch with Fett. The hold seemed to spur on Swiatek and she won five games in a row to become the first women`s player in the 21st century to win 36 consecutive matches.

She will meet British wildcard Sonay Kartal or Dutch lucky loser Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove for a place in the third round. "It`s my first match on grass this season so I knew it`s going to be tricky," said the 21-year-old. "At the beginning of the second set I lost my focus little bit and she used that pretty well. 
"I am pretty happy that I came back and I could finish in two sets. I am just figuring out how to play here and trying to implement all the stuff we were practising. It`s pretty exciting, a new experience for me."

***

Feisty Australian Nick Kyrgios came through a five-set first-round Wimbledon thriller against British wildcard Paul Jubb on Tuesday as his fearsome serve, including 30 aces, eventually overpowered the 22-year-old 3-6 6-1 7-5 6-7(3) 7-5. It was an unexpectedly testing examination for Kyrgios as the British outsider kept his cool in the face of the Australian`s usual verbal antics, but fell just short.

"It was tough, he had nothing to lose and he played exceptional tennis at times," Kyrgios said. "He`s going to be a good player for sure, I`m just happy to get through. "Playing here is a lot of fun. I talk a lot on the court but off the court I`m not too bad."

Kyrgios looked pretty flat in losing the opening set to a player whose career highlight was winning the U.S. NCAA college title in 2019, and in his frustration he hammered a ball high and out of Court Three. 
Kyrgios is a player the word "chuntering" was invented for as he seems to need to keep up a running monologue to get himself motivated. He took great offence at a single fan uttering an almost polite boo, complaining to the umpire "You don`t accept a hat with two logos on but you accept disrespect of an athlete?".

Kyrgios then complained about a line judge "reporting him" to the umpire. "Not one person has come here today to hear her speak," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-years-finalist-matteo-berrettini-pulls-out-of-wimbledon-2022-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-492612">Last year's finalist Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19</a>

The chat appeared to energise him as he began to find his range in a strong second set but Jubb refused to lie down, being edged out in the third and going toe to toe to take the fourth on the back of a strong tiebreak. The Briton, in only his second Wimbledon appearance having lost in the first round three years ago, was ice-cool in ignoring any potential distraction from Kyrgios’s running commentary, which included another extended whinge over a non-signalled net cord in the tiebreak.

It is now eight years since Kyrgios stunned then world number one Rafa Nadal to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals but he has never matched that since and has reached only one other Grand Slam quarter – in Australia in 2015. The 27-year-old has slipped to world number 40 but his serve remains out of the top drawer, demonstrated when he ripped through the third game of the deciding set to love in 43 seconds before breaking Jubb.

When serving for the set, however, Kyrgios stood back to admire a drop shot, only to be left stranded when Jubb brilliantly ran it down en route to his own break back. Jubb then failed to convert a break point and, serving to take the match to a decisive tiebreak, leaked a couple of shots wide to help Kyrgios secure victory.

***

Coco Gauff made sure she was not thrown off course by the noisy racket created by Nick Kyrgios in a nearby court or by the fact she managed to convert only four of 25 break points as she reached the Wimbledon second round on Tuesday. With Australian hot-head Kyrgios up to his usual antics, yelling at the umpire and involved in heated exchanges with other officials during his first-round match, the commotion from Court Three might have distracted Gauff as she lost the opening seven points to Elena-Gabriela Ruse. 
But despite the inauspicious start, and her growing frustration in failing to convert so many break points, the 11th seed hung tough for 2-1/2 hours to seal a place in round two with a 2-6 6-3 7-5 win over the little-known Romanian.

"Both of us gave our heart on court today," a beaming Gauff told the crowd after celebrating her win by thumping her chest with a clenched fist. "Court Two is a really, really nice court and I like that it`s intimate as you can hear every gasp and every cheer and I like that. "First round is always tough for me as it`s the most nerve racking... but if I lose I know it`s not the end of the world."

The 18-year-old American is the youngest player in the singles draw and after her runner-up finish at the French Open this month, many are tipping her to go all the way at the All England Club. However, when she lost the opening seven points against Ruse, including surrendering her serve to love, her father and coach Corey could be seen frowning on a sun-soaked Court Two.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraines-anhelina-kalinina-will-use-wimbledon-prize-money-to-rebuild-parents-home-after-it-was-bombed-492518">Ukraine's Anhelina Kalinina will use Wimbledon prize money to rebuild parents' home after it was bombed</a>

When Gauff went on to earn and lose four break points in Ruse`s opening service game, it set the tone for a frustrating afternoon for her family. The popular teenager, who captured the world`s attention when she made it to the Wimbledon fourth round as a 15-year-old school girl in 2019, finally got a foothold in the match when she broke for a 4-2 lead in the second set before levelling at one set all. The 24-year-old Ruse fought back from 3-1 down in the final set to level at 3-3 but Gauff clung on despite continuing to misfire on break points.

She needed six of them to break Ruse`s resolve in the 11th game of the decider and secured victory when her opponent whipped a forehand wide. She will next face Romanian Mihaela Buzarnescu.

World number one Iga Swiatek recovered from a dip in her level in the second set to see off Croatian qualifier Jana Fett 6-0 6-3 in the Wimbledon first round on Tuesday and extend her winning run to 36 matches.

World number one Iga Swiatek recovered from a dip in her level in the second set to see off Croatian qualifier Jana Fett 6-0 6-3 in the Wimbledon first round on Tuesday and extend her winning run to 36 matches. The 2018 junior champion, who exited the grasscourt Grand Slam in the fourth round last year, had the honour of opening the second day`s play on Centre Court in the absence of the retired Ash Barty who won the 2021 title. Playing her first match since winning a second French Open title this month, Poland`s Swiatek powered through the opening set without losing a game -- registering a 6-0 set for the 17th time this year -- despite a stiff breeze swirling through the main show court. A litany of unforced errors, including a double fault, however, led to Swiatek dropping serve at the start of the second set, allowing the 25-year-old Fett, ranked 252nd in the world, to get on the scoreboard. Swiatek, who played with a ribbon in Ukrainian colours pinned to her cap as she did during her Roland Garros campaign, broke back immediately -- only to hand back the advantage in her next service game. The Pole`s struggles with her delivery continued as she had to save five break points to hold serve for the first time in the second set to get to 2-3 and stay in touch with Fett. The hold seemed to spur on Swiatek and she won five games in a row to become the first women`s player in the 21st century to win 36 consecutive matches. She will meet British wildcard Sonay Kartal or Dutch lucky loser Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove for a place in the third round. "It`s my first match on grass this season so I knew it`s going to be tricky," said the 21-year-old. "At the beginning of the second set I lost my focus little bit and she used that pretty well. "I am pretty happy that I came back and I could finish in two sets. I am just figuring out how to play here and trying to implement all the stuff we were practising. It`s pretty exciting, a new experience for me." *** Feisty Australian Nick Kyrgios came through a five-set first-round Wimbledon thriller against British wildcard Paul Jubb on Tuesday as his fearsome serve, including 30 aces, eventually overpowered the 22-year-old 3-6 6-1 7-5 6-7(3) 7-5. It was an unexpectedly testing examination for Kyrgios as the British outsider kept his cool in the face of the Australian`s usual verbal antics, but fell just short. "It was tough, he had nothing to lose and he played exceptional tennis at times," Kyrgios said. "He`s going to be a good player for sure, I`m just happy to get through. "Playing here is a lot of fun. I talk a lot on the court but off the court I`m not too bad." Kyrgios looked pretty flat in losing the opening set to a player whose career highlight was winning the U.S. NCAA college title in 2019, and in his frustration he hammered a ball high and out of Court Three. Kyrgios is a player the word "chuntering" was invented for as he seems to need to keep up a running monologue to get himself motivated. He took great offence at a single fan uttering an almost polite boo, complaining to the umpire "You don`t accept a hat with two logos on but you accept disrespect of an athlete?". Kyrgios then complained about a line judge "reporting him" to the umpire. "Not one person has come here today to hear her speak," he said. ALSO READ | Last year's finalist Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19 The chat appeared to energise him as he began to find his range in a strong second set but Jubb refused to lie down, being edged out in the third and going toe to toe to take the fourth on the back of a strong tiebreak. The Briton, in only his second Wimbledon appearance having lost in the first round three years ago, was ice-cool in ignoring any potential distraction from Kyrgios’s running commentary, which included another extended whinge over a non-signalled net cord in the tiebreak. It is now eight years since Kyrgios stunned then world number one Rafa Nadal to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals but he has never matched that since and has reached only one other Grand Slam quarter – in Australia in 2015. The 27-year-old has slipped to world number 40 but his serve remains out of the top drawer, demonstrated when he ripped through the third game of the deciding set to love in 43 seconds before breaking Jubb. When serving for the set, however, Kyrgios stood back to admire a drop shot, only to be left stranded when Jubb brilliantly ran it down en route to his own break back. Jubb then failed to convert a break point and, serving to take the match to a decisive tiebreak, leaked a couple of shots wide to help Kyrgios secure victory. *** Coco Gauff made sure she was not thrown off course by the noisy racket created by Nick Kyrgios in a nearby court or by the fact she managed to convert only four of 25 break points as she reached the Wimbledon second round on Tuesday. With Australian hot-head Kyrgios up to his usual antics, yelling at the umpire and involved in heated exchanges with other officials during his first-round match, the commotion from Court Three might have distracted Gauff as she lost the opening seven points to Elena-Gabriela Ruse. But despite the inauspicious start, and her growing frustration in failing to convert so many break points, the 11th seed hung tough for 2-1/2 hours to seal a place in round two with a 2-6 6-3 7-5 win over the little-known Romanian. "Both of us gave our heart on court today," a beaming Gauff told the crowd after celebrating her win by thumping her chest with a clenched fist. "Court Two is a really, really nice court and I like that it`s intimate as you can hear every gasp and every cheer and I like that. "First round is always tough for me as it`s the most nerve racking... but if I lose I know it`s not the end of the world." The 18-year-old American is the youngest player in the singles draw and after her runner-up finish at the French Open this month, many are tipping her to go all the way at the All England Club. However, when she lost the opening seven points against Ruse, including surrendering her serve to love, her father and coach Corey could be seen frowning on a sun-soaked Court Two. ALSO READ | Ukraine's Anhelina Kalinina will use Wimbledon prize money to rebuild parents' home after it was bombed When Gauff went on to earn and lose four break points in Ruse`s opening service game, it set the tone for a frustrating afternoon for her family. The popular teenager, who captured the world`s attention when she made it to the Wimbledon fourth round as a 15-year-old school girl in 2019, finally got a foothold in the match when she broke for a 4-2 lead in the second set before levelling at one set all. The 24-year-old Ruse fought back from 3-1 down in the final set to level at 3-3 but Gauff clung on despite continuing to misfire on break points. She needed six of them to break Ruse`s resolve in the 11th game of the decider and secured victory when her opponent whipped a forehand wide. She will next face Romanian Mihaela Buzarnescu.

Wimbledon 2022: Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios and Coco Gauff proceed ahead

The legendary Serena&nbsp;Williams will play in her first singles competition after nearly a year when she ock horns against France's Harmony Tan in her first-round clash at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022 on Tuesday (June 28). Williams is chasing a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title as she currently stands just one title away from matching Margaret Court's record of winning 24 Grand Slam singles titles in her career - the most in women's tennis history.

40-year-old Williams is currently ranked 1,204 in the world and has gained entry as a wildcard in Wimbledon 2022. Nonetheless, there is an immense buzz over her return to the iconic Centre Court where she has won seven Wimbledon titles so far in her illustrious career.

While her pedigree in the competition is second to none, Williams has not played much top-level tennis in the build-up to Wimbledon 2022. She is heading into the opening game with just two doubles matches at Eastbourne behind her back. Nonetheless, the American will start as a favourite against Tan.

Tan, on the other hand, defeated the likes of Ana Bogdan and Lucia Bronzetti recently on her way to reaching the final of the WTA 125K event. She is a prodigious talent, who likes playing on the grass and is expected to give a tough time to Williams on her return to Wimbledon.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-british-tennis-star-jodie-burrage-offers-drink-candy-to-ball-boy-who-nearly-fainted-at-wimbledon-492504">WATCH - British tennis star Jodie Burrage offers drink, candy to ball boy who nearly fainted at Wimbledon</a>

Here is all you need to know about the Serena Williams vs&nbsp;Harmony Tan clash at Wimbledon 2022:

Where will the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash take place?

The&nbsp;Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash will take place at the Centre Court on Tuesday (June 28).

What time will the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash begin?

The&nbsp;Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash is expected to start at around 9:30 PM IST.

Where to watch the live telecast of the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match?

The live telecast of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match will be available on the Star Sports network in India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-years-finalist-matteo-berrettini-pulls-out-of-wimbledon-2022-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-492612">Last year's finalist Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19</a> 
&nbsp;

How to catch the live streaming of the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match?

The live streaming of the&nbsp;Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match will be available on the Hotstar app and website.

The legendary Serena Williams will play in her first singles competition after nearly a year when she ock horns against France's Harmony Tan in her first-round clash at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022 on Tuesday (June 28).

The legendary Serena Williams will play in her first singles competition after nearly a year when she ock horns against France's Harmony Tan in her first-round clash at the ongoing Wimbledon 2022 on Tuesday (June 28). Williams is chasing a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title as she currently stands just one title away from matching Margaret Court's record of winning 24 Grand Slam singles titles in her career - the most in women's tennis history. 40-year-old Williams is currently ranked 1,204 in the world and has gained entry as a wildcard in Wimbledon 2022. Nonetheless, there is an immense buzz over her return to the iconic Centre Court where she has won seven Wimbledon titles so far in her illustrious career. While her pedigree in the competition is second to none, Williams has not played much top-level tennis in the build-up to Wimbledon 2022. She is heading into the opening game with just two doubles matches at Eastbourne behind her back. Nonetheless, the American will start as a favourite against Tan. Tan, on the other hand, defeated the likes of Ana Bogdan and Lucia Bronzetti recently on her way to reaching the final of the WTA 125K event. She is a prodigious talent, who likes playing on the grass and is expected to give a tough time to Williams on her return to Wimbledon. Also Read: WATCH - British tennis star Jodie Burrage offers drink, candy to ball boy who nearly fainted at Wimbledon Here is all you need to know about the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan clash at Wimbledon 2022: Where will the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash take place? The Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash will take place at the Centre Court on Tuesday (June 28). What time will the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash begin? The Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 clash is expected to start at around 9:30 PM IST. Where to watch the live telecast of the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match? The live telecast of the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match will be available on the Star Sports network in India. Also Read: Last year's finalist Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19 How to catch the live streaming of the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match? The live streaming of the Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan Wimbledon 2022 match will be available on the Hotstar app and website.

Serena Williams vs Harmony Tan live streaming: When and where to watch Wimbledon clash in India?

Rafael Nadal has been on a roll this year. After coming from behind and beating Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final, early this year, Nadal also battled a foot injury to win his 14th title at the Roland Garros in French Open 2022.&nbsp;On Tuesday evening (June 28), the Spaniard will commence his campaign at the Wimbledon 2022.

The 22-time Grand Slam winner Nadal will lock horns with&nbsp;with world No. 42 Argentine&nbsp;Francisco Cerundolo. While Nadal will be favourite against Cerundolo, he won't take anything lightly against&nbsp;Argentina's 23-year-old talent. It has been 12 years since Nadal won the championship at the All England Club, hence, he will hope for an easy win in the first round and progress ahead.

Here's the live streaming details of Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022

Where will the Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;be held?

The&nbsp;Nadal vs&nbsp;Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will be held&nbsp;at the Centre Court, i.e. the main court at the Wimbledon Championships.

When will the&nbsp;Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;commence?

The Nadal vs&nbsp;Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022&nbsp;will kick off at 7:15 pm IST on Tuesday evening (June 28).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-years-finalist-matteo-berrettini-pulls-out-of-wimbledon-2022-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-492612">Last year's finalist Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19</a>

Which TV channels will broadcast the Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Nadal vs&nbsp;Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022 will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch the live streaming of the Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022?

The&nbsp;Nadal vs&nbsp;Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022 will be&nbsp;available for live stream on Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

Rafael Nadal has been on a roll this year. After coming from behind and beating Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final, early this year, Nadal also battled a foot injury to win his 14th title at the Roland Garros in French Open 2022.

Rafael Nadal has been on a roll this year. After coming from behind and beating Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final, early this year, Nadal also battled a foot injury to win his 14th title at the Roland Garros in French Open 2022. On Tuesday evening (June 28), the Spaniard will commence his campaign at the Wimbledon 2022. The 22-time Grand Slam winner Nadal will lock horns with with world No. 42 Argentine Francisco Cerundolo. While Nadal will be favourite against Cerundolo, he won't take anything lightly against Argentina's 23-year-old talent. It has been 12 years since Nadal won the championship at the All England Club, hence, he will hope for an easy win in the first round and progress ahead. Here's the live streaming details of Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022 Where will the Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022 be held? The Nadal vs Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022 will be held at the Centre Court, i.e. the main court at the Wimbledon Championships. When will the Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022 commence? The Nadal vs Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022 will kick off at 7:15 pm IST on Tuesday evening (June 28). ALSO READ | Last year's finalist Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19 Which TV channels will broadcast the Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022? The Nadal vs Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022 will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network. How to watch the live streaming of the Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo match in Wimbledon 2022? The Nadal vs Cerundolo match at Wimbledon 2022 will be available for live stream on Disney+ Hotstar website and app.

Rafael Nadal vs Francisco Cerundolo live streaming: When and where to watch Wimbledon tie in India?

Eighth seed Matteo Berrettini, runner-up at last year`s Wimbledon, pulled out of the Championships on Tuesday after testing positive for COVID-19, he said on Instagram. The 26-year-old Italian, who lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 final, became the second player to withdraw from this year`s grasscourt Grand Slam due to the coronavirus after Croatia`s Marin Cilic on Monday.

"I am heartbroken to announce that I need to withdraw from @wimbledon due to a positive COVID-19 test result," Berrettini said on his social media account hours before his first-round match against Chile`s Cristian Garin.

"I have had flu symptoms and been isolating the last few days. Despite symptoms not being severe, I decided it was important to take another test this morning to protect the health and safety of my fellow competitors and everyone else involved in the tournament."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-british-tennis-star-jodie-burrage-offers-drink-candy-to-ball-boy-who-nearly-fainted-at-wimbledon-492504">WATCH - British tennis star Burrage offers drink, candy to ball boy who nearly fainted at Wimbledon</a>

Berrettini was seen as a leading contender to win this year`s tournament after he claimed back-to-back titles in tuneup events on grass at Stuttgart and Queen`s Club.

"I have no words to describe the extreme disappointment I feel," the Italian added. "The dream is over for this year, but I will be back stronger." Sweden`s Elias Ymer replaced Berrettini in the men`s draw, organisers said.

Eighth seed Matteo Berrettini, runner-up at last year`s Wimbledon, pulled out of the Championships on Tuesday after testing positive for COVID-19, he said on Instagram.

Eighth seed Matteo Berrettini, runner-up at last year`s Wimbledon, pulled out of the Championships on Tuesday after testing positive for COVID-19, he said on Instagram. The 26-year-old Italian, who lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 final, became the second player to withdraw from this year`s grasscourt Grand Slam due to the coronavirus after Croatia`s Marin Cilic on Monday. "I am heartbroken to announce that I need to withdraw from @wimbledon due to a positive COVID-19 test result," Berrettini said on his social media account hours before his first-round match against Chile`s Cristian Garin. "I have had flu symptoms and been isolating the last few days. Despite symptoms not being severe, I decided it was important to take another test this morning to protect the health and safety of my fellow competitors and everyone else involved in the tournament." Also Read: WATCH - British tennis star Burrage offers drink, candy to ball boy who nearly fainted at Wimbledon Berrettini was seen as a leading contender to win this year`s tournament after he claimed back-to-back titles in tuneup events on grass at Stuttgart and Queen`s Club. "I have no words to describe the extreme disappointment I feel," the Italian added. "The dream is over for this year, but I will be back stronger." Sweden`s Elias Ymer replaced Berrettini in the men`s draw, organisers said.

Last year's finalist Matteo Berrettini pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 after testing positive for COVID-19

Ukraine`s Anhelina Kalinina said she will use her prize money from Wimbledon to help rebuild her parents` home after it was bombed during the Russian invasion. Kalinina said her parents are now staying at her apartment while the rebuilding work takes place at their home in Irpin, which was retaken from Russian troops in late March.

The town, near the capital Kyiv, was heavily damaged at the start of the invasion, which Moscow calls a "special military operation".

"Their house was attacked. There are huge holes in the house. There are no apartments anymore," said Kalinina, who is seeded 29th at the grasscourt Grand Slam.

"So now this home is getting rebuilt, so they can`t live there. They live in my apartment where I`m living with my husband.

"Now they are at home safe, they have everything. I`m grateful that they have the opportunities to live, and I am playing tennis."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-british-tennis-star-jodie-burrage-offers-drink-candy-to-ball-boy-who-nearly-fainted-at-wimbledon-492504">WATCH - British tennis star Jodie Burrage offers drink, candy to ball boy who nearly fainted at Wimbledon</a>

Wimbledon banned players from Russia and Belarus from playing at this year`s tournament following the invasion. 
After beating Anna Bondar 4-6 6-2 6-4 in the first round Kalinina will next face compatriot Lesia Tsurenko, who said winning or losing tennis matches was not a priority for her while her hometown Kyiv comes under renewed attack.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-to-ukraines-lesia-tsurenko-who-said-what-at-wimbledon-2022-day-1-492491">Novak Djokovic to Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko: Who said what at Wimbledon 2022 Day 1?</a>

For Kalinina, however, each victory is a way of helping families in Ukraine survive the war.

"It`s hard to focus, but for me it matters if I win or if I lose," the 25-year-old said. "I`m helping my grandmother and grandfather, who are in occupied territory now.

"The more I win, I`m helping other families and other people. It`s a privilege to play here, it`s a privilege to play every tournament. If you go further, you earn more money ... For me, that matters.

"I`m not a superstar so I`m helping with what I can. And it`s a lot to them, and for me that`s huge motivation to play."

Ukraine`s Anhelina Kalinina said she will use her prize money from Wimbledon to help rebuild her parents` home after it was bombed during the Russian invasion. Kalinina said her parents are now staying at her apartment while the rebuilding work takes place at their home in Irpin, which was retaken from Russian troops in late March.

Ukraine`s Anhelina Kalinina said she will use her prize money from Wimbledon to help rebuild her parents` home after it was bombed during the Russian invasion. Kalinina said her parents are now staying at her apartment while the rebuilding work takes place at their home in Irpin, which was retaken from Russian troops in late March. The town, near the capital Kyiv, was heavily damaged at the start of the invasion, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". "Their house was attacked. There are huge holes in the house. There are no apartments anymore," said Kalinina, who is seeded 29th at the grasscourt Grand Slam. "So now this home is getting rebuilt, so they can`t live there. They live in my apartment where I`m living with my husband. "Now they are at home safe, they have everything. I`m grateful that they have the opportunities to live, and I am playing tennis." Also Read: WATCH - British tennis star Jodie Burrage offers drink, candy to ball boy who nearly fainted at Wimbledon Wimbledon banned players from Russia and Belarus from playing at this year`s tournament following the invasion. After beating Anna Bondar 4-6 6-2 6-4 in the first round Kalinina will next face compatriot Lesia Tsurenko, who said winning or losing tennis matches was not a priority for her while her hometown Kyiv comes under renewed attack. Also Read: Novak Djokovic to Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko: Who said what at Wimbledon 2022 Day 1? For Kalinina, however, each victory is a way of helping families in Ukraine survive the war. "It`s hard to focus, but for me it matters if I win or if I lose," the 25-year-old said. "I`m helping my grandmother and grandfather, who are in occupied territory now. "The more I win, I`m helping other families and other people. It`s a privilege to play here, it`s a privilege to play every tournament. If you go further, you earn more money ... For me, that matters. "I`m not a superstar so I`m helping with what I can. And it`s a lot to them, and for me that`s huge motivation to play."

Ukraine's Anhelina Kalinina will use Wimbledon prize money to rebuild parents' home after it was bombed

Norwegian third seed Casper Ruud registered his maiden Wimbledon victory in his third main-draw appearance when he saw off experienced Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas 7-6(1) 7-6(9) 6-2 in the first round on Monday. French Open runner-up Ruud failed to get past the opening hurdle in 2019 and 2021 and arrived at this year`s grasscourt Grand Slam following a first-round loss at Queen`s to world number 180 Ryan Peniston.

The odds were again stacked against the 23-year-old Ruud, who once joked that grass is for golfers, as he faced an opponent who had defeated him in three out of four career meetings -- though all the matches were on clay. Ruud served strongly, dishing out 14 aces, and dominated the baseline battle against the left-hander during a rain-interrupted match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2022-novak-djokovic-sees-off-koreas-kwon-soon-woo-to-win-1st-round-advances-ahead-492354">Wimbledon 2022: Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead</a>

Both players had opportunities in the first set but neither managed a service break before Ruud dictated terms in the tiebreaker to nose ahead. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, ranked 34th, traded two service breaks with his opponent in the second and had four set points in the tiebreaker to level the contest but ended up losing it to fall 2-0 behind.

Ruud grew in confidence as the Spaniard`s challenge melted away and after two breaks in the third set the Norwegian sealed victory to set up a meeting with Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry or Frenchman Ugo Humbert.

Norwegian third seed Casper Ruud registered his maiden Wimbledon victory in his third main-draw appearance when he saw off experienced Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas 7-6(1) 7-6(9) 6-2 in the first round on Monday.

Norwegian third seed Casper Ruud registered his maiden Wimbledon victory in his third main-draw appearance when he saw off experienced Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas 7-6(1) 7-6(9) 6-2 in the first round on Monday. French Open runner-up Ruud failed to get past the opening hurdle in 2019 and 2021 and arrived at this year`s grasscourt Grand Slam following a first-round loss at Queen`s to world number 180 Ryan Peniston. The odds were again stacked against the 23-year-old Ruud, who once joked that grass is for golfers, as he faced an opponent who had defeated him in three out of four career meetings -- though all the matches were on clay. Ruud served strongly, dishing out 14 aces, and dominated the baseline battle against the left-hander during a rain-interrupted match. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2022: Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead Both players had opportunities in the first set but neither managed a service break before Ruud dictated terms in the tiebreaker to nose ahead. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, ranked 34th, traded two service breaks with his opponent in the second and had four set points in the tiebreaker to level the contest but ended up losing it to fall 2-0 behind. Ruud grew in confidence as the Spaniard`s challenge melted away and after two breaks in the third set the Norwegian sealed victory to set up a meeting with Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry or Frenchman Ugo Humbert.

Norway's Casper Ruud registers maiden Wimbledon win, beats Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in R1

Top seed Novak Djokovic overcame a dogged challenge from 81st-ranked Korean Kwon Soon-woo and his own grasscourt rustiness to reach the Wimbledon second round with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4 victory on Monday. 
The defending champion, bidding for his fourth Wimbledon title in a row and his seventh overall, looked out-of-sorts at times against Kwon, who brought a lively mixture of tennis, from booming forehands to delicate drop-shots, onto Centre Court. Djokovic had not played a grasscourt warm-up tournament and he admitted that did not help his game against a tough opponent, 11 years his junior.

"I didn`t have any lead-up or preparation tournaments prior to this so you`re always going to feel a bit less comfortable than you would like, particularly if you`re playing against someone as talented as Kwon who stays close to the line and hits really clean," he said. "It wasn`t easy. I had to put some variety in the game. The serve helped but at this level one or two shots decide a winner."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-open-for-business-not-quite-as-usual-492265">Wimbledon open for business, not quite as usual</a>

The 24-year-old Korean broke Djokovic`s serve in the fourth game of the second set and went on to win it with a drop-shot and a big serve. But the Serb, aiming to win a 21st Grand Slam title, recovered enough of his trademark consistency to see off the challenge.

He secured victory with an ace on his first match point and will next meet either Thanasi Kokkinakis of Australia or Poland`s Kamil Majchrzak. It was Djokovic`s 80th Wimbledon win and he became the only man to have won 80 matches at all four Grand Slam tournaments.

The Serb, who won three Grand Slams last year, missed out the Australian Open in January after being deported because he was not vaccinated against COVID-19. He lost in the French Open quarter-finals to eventual champion Rafa Nadal who is seeded second at Wimbledon.

Top seed Novak Djokovic overcame a dogged challenge from 81st-ranked Korean Kwon Soon-woo and his own grasscourt rustiness to reach the Wimbledon second round with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4 victory on Monday.

Top seed Novak Djokovic overcame a dogged challenge from 81st-ranked Korean Kwon Soon-woo and his own grasscourt rustiness to reach the Wimbledon second round with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4 victory on Monday. The defending champion, bidding for his fourth Wimbledon title in a row and his seventh overall, looked out-of-sorts at times against Kwon, who brought a lively mixture of tennis, from booming forehands to delicate drop-shots, onto Centre Court. Djokovic had not played a grasscourt warm-up tournament and he admitted that did not help his game against a tough opponent, 11 years his junior. "I didn`t have any lead-up or preparation tournaments prior to this so you`re always going to feel a bit less comfortable than you would like, particularly if you`re playing against someone as talented as Kwon who stays close to the line and hits really clean," he said. "It wasn`t easy. I had to put some variety in the game. The serve helped but at this level one or two shots decide a winner." ALSO READ | Wimbledon open for business, not quite as usual The 24-year-old Korean broke Djokovic`s serve in the fourth game of the second set and went on to win it with a drop-shot and a big serve. But the Serb, aiming to win a 21st Grand Slam title, recovered enough of his trademark consistency to see off the challenge. He secured victory with an ace on his first match point and will next meet either Thanasi Kokkinakis of Australia or Poland`s Kamil Majchrzak. It was Djokovic`s 80th Wimbledon win and he became the only man to have won 80 matches at all four Grand Slam tournaments. The Serb, who won three Grand Slams last year, missed out the Australian Open in January after being deported because he was not vaccinated against COVID-19. He lost in the French Open quarter-finals to eventual champion Rafa Nadal who is seeded second at Wimbledon.

Wimbledon 2022: Novak Djokovic sees off Korea's Kwon Soon-woo to win 1st round, advances ahead

The world`s most famous queue began streaming into the All England Club on Monday as the gates opened at the start of the 135th edition of the Wimbledon championships. The quintessential English sight of thousands of tennis fans waiting patiently, often having camped overnight, to gain entry to the grounds has been missing since 2019.

COVID-19 put paid to Wimbledon in 2020 and last year the queue was scrapped on safety grounds as the tournament returned to semi-normality, albeit with restricted attendances and players based in secure hotel bubbles.

Although all that makes Wimbledon such a spectacle has returned, it is not quite business as usual despite the buzz around the grounds as the gates swung open at 0900GMT on a breezy morning in south west London.

For a start, Roger Federer, the king of the lawns with a record eighth men`s singles titles, is absent for the first time since winning the junior event in 1998. The 40-year-old Swiss is recovering from a knee injury and has not played since losing to Poland`s Hubert Hurkacz in the quarter-finals a year ago.

Also missing is men`s world number one Daniil Medvedev after organisers banned Russian and Belarusian players in response to the invasion of Ukraine while women`s defending champion Ash Barty has retired. The ban on Russians and Belarusians prompted the ATP and WTA to take away ranking points from Wimbledon this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-remains-firm-on-no-vaccine-stance-despite-risk-of-missing-out-on-us-open-2022-491992">Novak Djokovic remains firm on no vaccine stance despite risk of missing out on US Open 2022</a>

Play is also scheduled for 14 days, rather than the traditional 13, with middle Sunday no longer a rest day, meaning the end of so-called Manic Monday when all the men`s and women`s fourth-round matches used to be played.

While the build-up to Wimbledon has been mired in controversy, there are enough plot lines to suggest the next fortnight could be a classic edition.

Serena Williams returns after a year out, gunning for the 24th Grand Slam singles title that has eluded her since 2017. Serbia`s Novak Djokovic was due to open play on Centre Court on Monday as he seeks to defend his title, win a 21st Grand Slam crown and close the gap on Rafa Nadal who has a record 22.

Spaniard Nadal is halfway to a calendar-year Grand Slam after winning the Australian and French Opens. Briton Emma Raducanu`s appearance is being billed as a "homecoming" after her extraordinary U.S. Open title win as a qualifier and the spotlight will be fully focused on the teenager when she faces Belgian Alison Van Uytvanck after Djokovic`s match against Kwon Soon-woo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/polish-player-hubert-hurkacz-pledges-100-euros-for-every-ace-at-wimbledon-to-ukraine-relief-effort-492219">Polish player Hubert Hurkacz pledges 100 euros for every ace at Wimbledon to Ukraine relief effort</a>

With the famous Centre Court celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the opening day has a very British flavour with twice former champion Andy Murray concluding the action against Australian James Duckworth.

Murray is one of 17 British players in the singles draws -- the largest home contingent since 2001. While the stage is set for a feast of tennis over the next two weeks, a rain shower half an hour after play started to put a dampener on the early action. Some things, it seems, never change.

The world`s most famous queue began streaming into the All England Club on Monday as the gates opened at the start of the 135th edition of the Wimbledon championships.

The world`s most famous queue began streaming into the All England Club on Monday as the gates opened at the start of the 135th edition of the Wimbledon championships. The quintessential English sight of thousands of tennis fans waiting patiently, often having camped overnight, to gain entry to the grounds has been missing since 2019. COVID-19 put paid to Wimbledon in 2020 and last year the queue was scrapped on safety grounds as the tournament returned to semi-normality, albeit with restricted attendances and players based in secure hotel bubbles. Although all that makes Wimbledon such a spectacle has returned, it is not quite business as usual despite the buzz around the grounds as the gates swung open at 0900GMT on a breezy morning in south west London. For a start, Roger Federer, the king of the lawns with a record eighth men`s singles titles, is absent for the first time since winning the junior event in 1998. The 40-year-old Swiss is recovering from a knee injury and has not played since losing to Poland`s Hubert Hurkacz in the quarter-finals a year ago. Also missing is men`s world number one Daniil Medvedev after organisers banned Russian and Belarusian players in response to the invasion of Ukraine while women`s defending champion Ash Barty has retired. The ban on Russians and Belarusians prompted the ATP and WTA to take away ranking points from Wimbledon this year. Also Read: Novak Djokovic remains firm on no vaccine stance despite risk of missing out on US Open 2022 Play is also scheduled for 14 days, rather than the traditional 13, with middle Sunday no longer a rest day, meaning the end of so-called Manic Monday when all the men`s and women`s fourth-round matches used to be played. While the build-up to Wimbledon has been mired in controversy, there are enough plot lines to suggest the next fortnight could be a classic edition. Serena Williams returns after a year out, gunning for the 24th Grand Slam singles title that has eluded her since 2017. Serbia`s Novak Djokovic was due to open play on Centre Court on Monday as he seeks to defend his title, win a 21st Grand Slam crown and close the gap on Rafa Nadal who has a record 22. Spaniard Nadal is halfway to a calendar-year Grand Slam after winning the Australian and French Opens. Briton Emma Raducanu`s appearance is being billed as a "homecoming" after her extraordinary U.S. Open title win as a qualifier and the spotlight will be fully focused on the teenager when she faces Belgian Alison Van Uytvanck after Djokovic`s match against Kwon Soon-woo. Also Read: Polish player Hubert Hurkacz pledges 100 euros for every ace at Wimbledon to Ukraine relief effort With the famous Centre Court celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the opening day has a very British flavour with twice former champion Andy Murray concluding the action against Australian James Duckworth. Murray is one of 17 British players in the singles draws -- the largest home contingent since 2001. While the stage is set for a feast of tennis over the next two weeks, a rain shower half an hour after play started to put a dampener on the early action. Some things, it seems, never change.

Wimbledon open for business, not quite as usual

Hubert Hurkacz will hope his powerful serve is on point at Wimbledon after pledging to donate 100 euros ($105.54) for every ace he hits to the Ukraine relief effort, the Polish seventh seed said on Sunday ahead of the grasscourt Grand Slam. Hurkacz, whose power is suited to grass courts, is third on the list of number of aces hit on the ATP Tour this year with 452 -- behind big-serving Americans John Isner and Reilly Opelka. 
Seventy of Hurkacz`s aces have come from just six matches on grass, with the 25-year-old winning last week`s tune-up event at Halle where he beat world number one, Daniil Medvedev, in the final.

"I`d like to announce that starting tomorrow I am pledging to donate 100 euros for every ace I hit at Wimbledon to help support the people of Ukraine. Hope my serve works well!" he wrote on Twitter. Hurkacz begins his Wimbledon campaign against Spain`s Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the first round on Monday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-remains-firm-on-no-vaccine-stance-despite-risk-of-missing-out-on-us-open-2022-491992">Novak Djokovic remains firm on no vaccine stance despite risk of missing out on US Open 2022</a>

The grasscourt Grand Slam banned players from Russia and Belarus from playing at this year`s Wimbledon following Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a `special operation`.

Hubert Hurkacz will hope his powerful serve is on point at Wimbledon after pledging to donate 100 euros ($105.54) for every ace he hits to the Ukraine relief effort, the Polish seventh seed said on Sunday ahead of the grasscourt Grand Slam.

Hubert Hurkacz will hope his powerful serve is on point at Wimbledon after pledging to donate 100 euros ($105.54) for every ace he hits to the Ukraine relief effort, the Polish seventh seed said on Sunday ahead of the grasscourt Grand Slam. Hurkacz, whose power is suited to grass courts, is third on the list of number of aces hit on the ATP Tour this year with 452 -- behind big-serving Americans John Isner and Reilly Opelka. Seventy of Hurkacz`s aces have come from just six matches on grass, with the 25-year-old winning last week`s tune-up event at Halle where he beat world number one, Daniil Medvedev, in the final. "I`d like to announce that starting tomorrow I am pledging to donate 100 euros for every ace I hit at Wimbledon to help support the people of Ukraine. Hope my serve works well!" he wrote on Twitter. Hurkacz begins his Wimbledon campaign against Spain`s Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the first round on Monday. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic remains firm on no vaccine stance despite risk of missing out on US Open 2022 The grasscourt Grand Slam banned players from Russia and Belarus from playing at this year`s Wimbledon following Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a `special operation`.

Polish player Hubert Hurkacz pledges 100 euros for every ace at Wimbledon to Ukraine relief effort

Andy Murray has shaken off the abdominal injury which threatened his participation at Wimbledon, the former world number one said on Saturday before declaring that there was still a lot of "good tennis" left in him. Murray, who won the grasscourt Grand Slam in 2013 and 2016, sustained the injury during his Stuttgart Open final defeat by Italian Matteo Berrettini earlier this month, after impressive wins over Stefanos Tsitsipas and Nick Kyrgios.

The problem forced Murray, ranked 51st, to skip the Queen`s Club event with doubts over his participation at Wimbledon but the Scot said things had improved since.

"It`s gone well," Murray, 35, told reporters. "I`ve been able to gradually progress my training this week and got to play a few sets, a lot of points. The last few days have been good."

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-will-be-difficult-to-beat-but-not-a-favourite-to-win-wimbledon-2022-title-nandan-bal-491815">&nbsp;Serena Williams will be difficult to beat but not a favourite to win Wimbledon 2022 title: Nandan Bal</a>

Murray secured his first victory over a top-five opponent in six years with a 7-6(4) 6-3 victory over Tsitsipas in Stuttgart, showing fans glimpses of the form that marked his rise to the top of the rankings before multiple hip surgeries.

He reached the 70th final of his career and second of the year after a runner-up finish in Sydney.

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"I think I showed a couple weeks ago that there was still good tennis left in me," Murray said. "I beat a guy in the top five, I was neck-and-neck with Berrettini, who is one of the best grasscourt players in the world before the injury.

"I played well against Kyrgios, as well. The first set was a good level. And I`ve been doing pretty well in practices. I know the tennis is in there; I just need to bring it out during the event now.

"Having Ivan (Lendl) on my team helps. We`ve had a lot of success in the past. We know each other well. He still believes in me. There`s not loads of coaches, people out there that have done over this last period, and he has. That definitely helps."

Wimbledon begins on Monday, with Murray facing Australia`s James Duckworth in the first round.

Andy Murray has shaken off the abdominal injury which threatened his participation at Wimbledon, the former world number one said on Saturday before declaring that there was still a lot of "good tennis" left in him.

Andy Murray has shaken off the abdominal injury which threatened his participation at Wimbledon, the former world number one said on Saturday before declaring that there was still a lot of "good tennis" left in him. Murray, who won the grasscourt Grand Slam in 2013 and 2016, sustained the injury during his Stuttgart Open final defeat by Italian Matteo Berrettini earlier this month, after impressive wins over Stefanos Tsitsipas and Nick Kyrgios. The problem forced Murray, ranked 51st, to skip the Queen`s Club event with doubts over his participation at Wimbledon but the Scot said things had improved since. "It`s gone well," Murray, 35, told reporters. "I`ve been able to gradually progress my training this week and got to play a few sets, a lot of points. The last few days have been good." Also Read: Serena Williams will be difficult to beat but not a favourite to win Wimbledon 2022 title: Nandan Bal Murray secured his first victory over a top-five opponent in six years with a 7-6(4) 6-3 victory over Tsitsipas in Stuttgart, showing fans glimpses of the form that marked his rise to the top of the rankings before multiple hip surgeries. He reached the 70th final of his career and second of the year after a runner-up finish in Sydney. Also Read: Wimbledon to provide free tickets to Ukrainian refugees "I think I showed a couple weeks ago that there was still good tennis left in me," Murray said. "I beat a guy in the top five, I was neck-and-neck with Berrettini, who is one of the best grasscourt players in the world before the injury. "I played well against Kyrgios, as well. The first set was a good level. And I`ve been doing pretty well in practices. I know the tennis is in there; I just need to bring it out during the event now. "Having Ivan (Lendl) on my team helps. We`ve had a lot of success in the past. We know each other well. He still believes in me. There`s not loads of coaches, people out there that have done over this last period, and he has. That definitely helps." Wimbledon begins on Monday, with Murray facing Australia`s James Duckworth in the first round.

'Still good tennis left in me': Fit-again Andy Murray full of belief ahead of Wimbledon

Serena Williams is all set for a much-awaited comeback at the upcoming Wimbledon 2022. Williams will be heading into the competition as an unseeded wild card and will be playing her first singles match in a year as the action moves to grass court. The tennis great made her last singles appearance at the Wimbledon last year where she had to retire after injuring her right leg during her first-round match in the tournament.

Williams has not been in action for over a year but considering her pedigree in the competition, she has been backed by many to stage an upset at this year's Wimbledon. Williams, who is currently outside the WTA's top 1200, has played just two doubles matches at a tune-up event ahead of the start of the competition in England.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion is one of the most successful women's players of all time and has had an illustrious career spanning over two decades. Recently, Indian tennis coach&nbsp;Nandan Bal spoke exclusively to WION&nbsp;about Williams' return to a singles competition after a year at the Wimbledon.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-will-rafael-nadal-extend-lead-in-goat-race-in-wimbledon-indian-tennis-coach-nandal-bal-opines-491456">Will Rafael Nadal extend lead in GOAT race in Wimbledon? Indian tennis coach Nandal Bal opines</a>

While he insisted greats like Williams need just a couple of matches to go their way in order to find their mojo, she won't start as one of the favourites at the competition this year. Bal also believes Wimbledon 2022 can prove to be the final hurrah for Willaims, who is 40 already.

"Unfortunately yes (on this being her last hurrah), I would tend to think that at this point in time one could not say Serena would be a favourite to win the title. It will all depend on how her draw goes, like I said, these champions need only 2 to 3 good matches to get into their groove. Once they get into their groove, they are kind of unbeatable, especially in a big event," Bal told WION.

Williams could have been drawn against current world no.1 Iga Swiatek in the first round at Wimbledon 2022 or could have also potentially faced teenage Coco Gauff, who has been in terrific form recently. However, she will be up against France's Harmony Tan, an unseeded 24-year-old in the opening round which makes it relatively easier for the tennis great to plot a title challenge.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-to-provide-free-tickets-to-ukrainian-refugees-491617">Wimbledon to provide free tickets to Ukrainian refugees</a>

Nonetheless, Williams who has won the Wimbledon singles titles as many as seven times in her career will always pose a threat to the best in the business at the moment. Bal believes Williams can be difficult to beat if she can get past the second round but the other youngsters in the tournament will also be aiming to prove themselves.

"Someone like Serena, if she can get past the second or third round and gets into a groove, she is going to be difficult but age is certainly not favourable to her. The younger girls are not there just for the show, they are out there to prove themselves," said Bal.

Serena Williams is all set for a much-awaited comeback at the upcoming Wimbledon 2022. Williams will be heading into the competition as an unseeded wild card and will be playing her first singles match in a year as the action moves to grass court.

Serena Williams is all set for a much-awaited comeback at the upcoming Wimbledon 2022. Williams will be heading into the competition as an unseeded wild card and will be playing her first singles match in a year as the action moves to grass court. The tennis great made her last singles appearance at the Wimbledon last year where she had to retire after injuring her right leg during her first-round match in the tournament. Williams has not been in action for over a year but considering her pedigree in the competition, she has been backed by many to stage an upset at this year's Wimbledon. Williams, who is currently outside the WTA's top 1200, has played just two doubles matches at a tune-up event ahead of the start of the competition in England. The 23-time Grand Slam champion is one of the most successful women's players of all time and has had an illustrious career spanning over two decades. Recently, Indian tennis coach Nandan Bal spoke exclusively to WION about Williams' return to a singles competition after a year at the Wimbledon. Also Read: Will Rafael Nadal extend lead in GOAT race in Wimbledon? Indian tennis coach Nandal Bal opines While he insisted greats like Williams need just a couple of matches to go their way in order to find their mojo, she won't start as one of the favourites at the competition this year. Bal also believes Wimbledon 2022 can prove to be the final hurrah for Willaims, who is 40 already. "Unfortunately yes (on this being her last hurrah), I would tend to think that at this point in time one could not say Serena would be a favourite to win the title. It will all depend on how her draw goes, like I said, these champions need only 2 to 3 good matches to get into their groove. Once they get into their groove, they are kind of unbeatable, especially in a big event," Bal told WION. Williams could have been drawn against current world no.1 Iga Swiatek in the first round at Wimbledon 2022 or could have also potentially faced teenage Coco Gauff, who has been in terrific form recently. However, she will be up against France's Harmony Tan, an unseeded 24-year-old in the opening round which makes it relatively easier for the tennis great to plot a title challenge. Also Read: Wimbledon to provide free tickets to Ukrainian refugees Nonetheless, Williams who has won the Wimbledon singles titles as many as seven times in her career will always pose a threat to the best in the business at the moment. Bal believes Williams can be difficult to beat if she can get past the second round but the other youngsters in the tournament will also be aiming to prove themselves. "Someone like Serena, if she can get past the second or third round and gets into a groove, she is going to be difficult but age is certainly not favourable to her. The younger girls are not there just for the show, they are out there to prove themselves," said Bal.

Serena Williams will be difficult to beat but not a favourite to win Wimbledon 2022 title: Nandan Bal

It is time for the third Grand Slam of the calendar year. After the mega success of Australian Open and French Open, the action now moves to the grass-court Grand Slam event as Wimbledon 2022 is set to commence on June 27. Ahead of the 135th edition of the premier tournament in England, there is a lot of hype for the mega event.

While it will be the first time that former World number one Roger Federer won't be part of the Wimbledon in over two decades, since 1998, the veteran stars such as Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams will hope to give plenty to cheer for fans. Ahead of the commencement of this year's Wimbledon, Wion's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo interacted with Indian tennis coach Nandan Bal who gave an early prediction with regard to both men's and women's singles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/john-mcenroe-reacts-as-wimbledon-2022-to-kickoff-without-roger-federer-for-first-time-in-over-two-decades-491304">John McEnroe reacts as Wimbledon 2022 to kickoff without Roger Federer for first time in over two decades</a>

MEN's SINGLES

For the unversed, world number two Djokovic could fall down to number seven by mid-July if Wimbledon doesn't go as per plans for the Serbian. A gap of three Grand Slam titles, with Nadal (22), can certainly prove to be&nbsp;a lot for Djokovic.&nbsp;

Thus, Nandal Bal&nbsp;spoke&nbsp;on Djokovic and Nadal's chances in the interaction. The veteran coach said, "There is no question that the next generation is coming closer. It is sad that Alexander Zverev succumbed to an injury in the French Open semi-finals (vs Nadal). Still, there are many others such as Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, etc. who have risen up the ranks. It is only a matter of time before they take on the three champions (Federer, Nadal and Djoko)."

"Djokovic and Nadal would probably be the favourites to play the final. I don't see Tsitsipas and Casper Ruud in the semis. Especially Ruud, who has been very vocal of not likening it when he competes on grass. Carlos Alcaraz, on the other hand, hasn't proved himself. Hence, don't think he has much chance on such a surface. You certainly have Italy's&nbsp;Matteo Berrettini as the darkhorse."

Speaking exclusively on Spainard Nadal's chances, who has turned up for the third Grand Slam of the year battling his foot injury, Nandan added, "He is dangerous on any court or surface. He has proved it time and again that he can compete anywhere. Earlier, people said he is a one-surface player but now he has most Grand Slams by any male player in the history of the game. You can never rule him out. If he gets 2-3 decent first, second and third rounds,&nbsp;he can be in great shape if his physical fitness levels hold up."

This year's Wimbledon will see no Russian and Belarus players participating after they were banned following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, early this year. In addition,&nbsp;there is no ranking points on offer at the grass-court event. Nonetheless, there still remains a lot to look forward to in every category.

It is time for the third Grand Slam of the calendar year. After the mega success of Australian Open and French Open, the action now moves to the grass-court Grand Slam event as Wimbledon 2022 is set to commence on June 27.

It is time for the third Grand Slam of the calendar year. After the mega success of Australian Open and French Open, the action now moves to the grass-court Grand Slam event as Wimbledon 2022 is set to commence on June 27. Ahead of the 135th edition of the premier tournament in England, there is a lot of hype for the mega event. While it will be the first time that former World number one Roger Federer won't be part of the Wimbledon in over two decades, since 1998, the veteran stars such as Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams will hope to give plenty to cheer for fans. Ahead of the commencement of this year's Wimbledon, Wion's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo interacted with Indian tennis coach Nandan Bal who gave an early prediction with regard to both men's and women's singles. ALSO READ | John McEnroe reacts as Wimbledon 2022 to kickoff without Roger Federer for first time in over two decades MEN's SINGLES For the unversed, world number two Djokovic could fall down to number seven by mid-July if Wimbledon doesn't go as per plans for the Serbian. A gap of three Grand Slam titles, with Nadal (22), can certainly prove to be a lot for Djokovic. Thus, Nandal Bal spoke on Djokovic and Nadal's chances in the interaction. The veteran coach said, "There is no question that the next generation is coming closer. It is sad that Alexander Zverev succumbed to an injury in the French Open semi-finals (vs Nadal). Still, there are many others such as Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, etc. who have risen up the ranks. It is only a matter of time before they take on the three champions (Federer, Nadal and Djoko)." "Djokovic and Nadal would probably be the favourites to play the final. I don't see Tsitsipas and Casper Ruud in the semis. Especially Ruud, who has been very vocal of not likening it when he competes on grass. Carlos Alcaraz, on the other hand, hasn't proved himself. Hence, don't think he has much chance on such a surface. You certainly have Italy's Matteo Berrettini as the darkhorse." Speaking exclusively on Spainard Nadal's chances, who has turned up for the third Grand Slam of the year battling his foot injury, Nandan added, "He is dangerous on any court or surface. He has proved it time and again that he can compete anywhere. Earlier, people said he is a one-surface player but now he has most Grand Slams by any male player in the history of the game. You can never rule him out. If he gets 2-3 decent first, second and third rounds, he can be in great shape if his physical fitness levels hold up." This year's Wimbledon will see no Russian and Belarus players participating after they were banned following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, early this year. In addition, there is no ranking points on offer at the grass-court event. Nonetheless, there still remains a lot to look forward to in every category.

Will Rafael Nadal extend lead in GOAT race in Wimbledon? Indian tennis coach Nandal Bal opines

&nbsp;Wimbledon will give Ukrainian refugees free tickets to the tournament and donate 250,000 pounds ($307,100) to those affected by Russia`s invasion of the country, the All England Lawn Tennis Club, said on Friday.

Following the invasion, Wimbledon banned Russian and Belarusian players from the tournament, resulting in the men`s ATP Tour and women`s WTA Tour taking away its ranking points.

"On behalf of The All England Lawn Tennis Club and the LTA, we wish to express our ongoing support for all those impacted by the conflict in Ukraine. We recognise the fantastic response from the British public to welcome Ukrainian refugees into their homes and communities,"&nbsp;Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the All England Club said in a statement.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-will-rafael-nadal-extend-lead-in-goat-race-in-wimbledon-indian-tennis-coach-nandal-bal-opines-491456">&nbsp;Will Rafael Nadal extend lead in GOAT race in Wimbledon? Indian tennis coach Nandal Bal opines</a>

To that end, the All England Club has invited all Ukrainian refugees who have settled in the boroughs of Merton and Wandsworth, alongside their sponsor and charity delivery partners, to join us at The Championships for play on Middle Sunday, 3 July," he added.

"In addition, the All England Club and the LTA have jointly committed a £250,000 donation on behalf of Wimbledon to the refugee response efforts through the Tennis Plays for Peace initiative and the British Red Cross Ukraine Appeal," he added. 
&nbsp;

Wimbledon will give Ukrainian refugees free tickets to the tournament and donate 250,000 pounds ($307,100) to those affected by Russia`s invasion of the country, the All England Lawn Tennis Club, said on Friday.

Wimbledon will give Ukrainian refugees free tickets to the tournament and donate 250,000 pounds ($307,100) to those affected by Russia`s invasion of the country, the All England Lawn Tennis Club, said on Friday. Following the invasion, Wimbledon banned Russian and Belarusian players from the tournament, resulting in the men`s ATP Tour and women`s WTA Tour taking away its ranking points. "On behalf of The All England Lawn Tennis Club and the LTA, we wish to express our ongoing support for all those impacted by the conflict in Ukraine. We recognise the fantastic response from the British public to welcome Ukrainian refugees into their homes and communities," Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the All England Club said in a statement. Also Read: Will Rafael Nadal extend lead in GOAT race in Wimbledon? Indian tennis coach Nandal Bal opines To that end, the All England Club has invited all Ukrainian refugees who have settled in the boroughs of Merton and Wandsworth, alongside their sponsor and charity delivery partners, to join us at The Championships for play on Middle Sunday, 3 July," he added. "In addition, the All England Club and the LTA have jointly committed a £250,000 donation on behalf of Wimbledon to the refugee response efforts through the Tennis Plays for Peace initiative and the British Red Cross Ukraine Appeal," he added.

Wimbledon to provide free tickets to Ukrainian refugees

There will be no ranking points on offer, but Wimbledon will dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds ($50.5 million) and host capacity crowds for the first time in three years at this year`s tennis championships. 
The grasscourt grand slam event had its ranking points taken away by the men's ATP and women's WTA after it opted to exclude players from Russia and Belarus because of Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

The men's and women's singles champions will each receive 2 million pounds, organisers said on Thursday. 
"From the first round of the qualifying competition to the champions being crowned, this year`s prize money distribution aims to reflect just how important the players are to The Championships...," said Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the All England Club.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/young-star-emma-raducanu-expected-to-be-fit-for-wimbledon-2022-486446">Young star Emma Raducanu expected to be fit for Wimbledon 2022</a>

The total prize money last year was a little over 35 million pounds, with Novak Djokovic and Ash Barty pocketing 1.7 million pounds each after being crowned champions. The grasscourt major will be held from June 27 to July 10.

There will be no ranking points on offer, but Wimbledon will dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds ($50.5 million) and host capacity crowds for the first time in three years at this year`s tennis championships.

There will be no ranking points on offer, but Wimbledon will dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds ($50.5 million) and host capacity crowds for the first time in three years at this year`s tennis championships. The grasscourt grand slam event had its ranking points taken away by the men's ATP and women's WTA after it opted to exclude players from Russia and Belarus because of Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. The men's and women's singles champions will each receive 2 million pounds, organisers said on Thursday. "From the first round of the qualifying competition to the champions being crowned, this year`s prize money distribution aims to reflect just how important the players are to The Championships...," said Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the All England Club. ALSO READ | Young star Emma Raducanu expected to be fit for Wimbledon 2022 The total prize money last year was a little over 35 million pounds, with Novak Djokovic and Ash Barty pocketing 1.7 million pounds each after being crowned champions. The grasscourt major will be held from June 27 to July 10.

Wimbledon to dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds

Former world number one Naomi Osaka has pulled out of Wimbledon due to a left Achilles injury, the four-time Grand Slam champion said on Saturday. Japan`s Osaka suffered the injury in Madrid, forcing her to miss the WTA 1000 tournament in Rome in the leadup to the French Open where she lost in the first round.

Last week she posted a video on social media, saying: "Here`s me running on a underwater treadmill because my Achilles is being stubborn still (sic) I must be aging or something."

She added on Saturday: "My Achilles still isn`t right so I`ll see you next time."

Osaka had said after her defeat at Roland Garros that she was not 100% sure if she would play on grass this season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-support-it-ukraines-elina-svitolina-on-us-opens-decision-to-allow-russian-players-to-participate-489483">'I don't support it': Ukraine's&nbsp;Svitolina on US Open’s decision to allow Russian players to participate&nbsp;</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

The men`s ATP and women`s WTA took away ranking points from the grasscourt Grand Slam after organisers the All&nbsp; England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) decided to ban participation by Russian and Belarusian players following Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine.

Osaka had reasoned that playing in the major without the possibility of earning points would not help her ranking and the decision of the authorities had reduced her motivation to play.

Osaka, who is ranked 43rd, also pulled out of Wimbledon last year after taking time off for "personal reasons" -- a month after quitting the French Open due to mental health issues.

Former world number one Naomi Osaka has pulled out of Wimbledon due to a left Achilles injury, the four-time Grand Slam champion said on Saturday. Japan`s Osaka suffered the injury in Madrid, forcing her to miss the WTA 1000 tournament in Rome in the leadup to the French Open where she lost in the first round.

Former world number one Naomi Osaka has pulled out of Wimbledon due to a left Achilles injury, the four-time Grand Slam champion said on Saturday. Japan`s Osaka suffered the injury in Madrid, forcing her to miss the WTA 1000 tournament in Rome in the leadup to the French Open where she lost in the first round. Last week she posted a video on social media, saying: "Here`s me running on a underwater treadmill because my Achilles is being stubborn still (sic) I must be aging or something." She added on Saturday: "My Achilles still isn`t right so I`ll see you next time." Osaka had said after her defeat at Roland Garros that she was not 100% sure if she would play on grass this season. Also Read: 'I don't support it': Ukraine's Svitolina on US Open’s decision to allow Russian players to participate The men`s ATP and women`s WTA took away ranking points from the grasscourt Grand Slam after organisers the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) decided to ban participation by Russian and Belarusian players following Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine. Osaka had reasoned that playing in the major without the possibility of earning points would not help her ranking and the decision of the authorities had reduced her motivation to play. Osaka, who is ranked 43rd, also pulled out of Wimbledon last year after taking time off for "personal reasons" -- a month after quitting the French Open due to mental health issues.

Naomi Osaka pulls out of Wimbledon 2022 due to Achilles injury

Serena Williams has announced her return on the court as the American is&nbsp;set to participate in&nbsp;Wimbledon 2022, which will see her back in any competition after&nbsp;a year. She took to her official Instagram account on Tuesday (June 14) and wrote,&nbsp;"SW and SW19. It's a date. 2022, see you there."

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Further, the 40-year-old veteran also tagged Eastbourne in her post, hinting&nbsp;that she could potentially play in next week's grasscourt tournament on England's south coast -- i.e. a&nbsp;tune-up competition&nbsp;ahead&nbsp;of the Wimbledon.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-no-1-jelena-dokic-reveals-she-had-suicidal-thoughts-before-seeking-help-487987">Former World No. 1 Jelena Dokic reveals she had suicidal thoughts before seeking help</a>

It is to be noted that Serena, a 23-time Grand Slam winner,&nbsp;could've entered using a protected ranking which is reserved for players who have been sidelined through a long-term injury. However, she&nbsp;didn't do so and, hence, has now earned&nbsp;a wild card entry, confirmed by the tournament's organisers, to take part in ladies' singles. The forthcoming Wimbledon edition kicks off&nbsp;on June 27.

Serena will have a point to prove in the forthcoming championship. Out of her 7 singles trophies at the All England Club, the veteran last won the coveted title in the event in 2016. She, however, made it to the final in 2018 and 2019 post-pregnancy before crashing&nbsp;out in the opening round of last year's tournament, against Belarusia's&nbsp;Aliaksandra Sasnovich.&nbsp;

Since then, many had been contemplating whether Serena would make a comeback. Nonetheless, it is always never-say-never with the American player as she is set for another return in the last lap of her career.

Serena Williams has announced her return on the court as the American is set to participate in Wimbledon 2022, which will see her back in any competition after a year.

Serena Williams has announced her return on the court as the American is set to participate in Wimbledon 2022, which will see her back in any competition after a year. She took to her official Instagram account on Tuesday (June 14) and wrote, "SW and SW19. It's a date. 2022, see you there." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) × Further, the 40-year-old veteran also tagged Eastbourne in her post, hinting that she could potentially play in next week's grasscourt tournament on England's south coast -- i.e. a tune-up competition ahead of the Wimbledon. ALSO READ | Former World No. 1 Jelena Dokic reveals she had suicidal thoughts before seeking help It is to be noted that Serena, a 23-time Grand Slam winner, could've entered using a protected ranking which is reserved for players who have been sidelined through a long-term injury. However, she didn't do so and, hence, has now earned a wild card entry, confirmed by the tournament's organisers, to take part in ladies' singles. The forthcoming Wimbledon edition kicks off on June 27. Serena will have a point to prove in the forthcoming championship. Out of her 7 singles trophies at the All England Club, the veteran last won the coveted title in the event in 2016. She, however, made it to the final in 2018 and 2019 post-pregnancy before crashing out in the opening round of last year's tournament, against Belarusia's Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Since then, many had been contemplating whether Serena would make a comeback. Nonetheless, it is always never-say-never with the American player as she is set for another return in the last lap of her career.

Serena Williams confirms her return at Wimbledon 2022, a year after superstar's last match

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu is hopeful she will be fit to play at Wimbledon after being forced to withdraw from next week`s WTA 250 event in Birmingham due to a side strain. A "freak injury" forced Raducanu, 19, to retire from her opening match at the Nottingham Open on Tuesday but the Briton said on Wednesday she was looking forward to the rest of the grasscourt swing.

"It was disappointing to go out this week with a side injury and unfortunately will no longer be able to play in Birmingham," Raducanu said in a statement released by Britain`s Lawn Tennis Association (LTA). "I`m looking forward to be back on the match court soon though to enjoy the rest of the grass season." 
Raducanu shot to stardom in September, 2021 when she won the U.S. Open title as a qualifier, becoming Britain`s first female Grand Slam champion since Virginia Wade in 1977.

She has, however, suffered a string of fitness issues since winning her maiden Grand Slam title and was knocked out in the second round of the French Open last month. Wimbledon will be held from June 27 to July 10. Raducanu reached the last 16 at the grasscourt major in 2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-goat-debate-over-for-now-mahesh-bhupathi-hails-rafael-nadal-after-14th-french-open-title-485747">Exclusive! GOAT debate over for now: Mahesh Bhupathi hails Rafael Nadal after 14th French Open title</a>

FEMALE EXPERTISE

Judy Murray, a tennis coach and mother of three-times Grand Slam winner Andy, has said Raducanu needs time to mature physically and should hire experts to help her. "What`s becoming increasingly clear is that Raducanu`s body needs time to mature," Murray wrote in a column for The Telegraph. 
"If you strip away the fact she was catapulted into this amazing success following her U.S. Open triumph last September, she is no different to any other young player in the sense that her body needs time to fill out, become more robust and resilient.

"It`s a process that simply doesn`t happen overnight, especially when the physical demands on her body are at an all-time high," Murray said, adding that her son Andy suffered from cramping while moving up from the junior circuit to the ATP. Murray also urged Raducanu to make more use of female expertise in taking care of her health, highlighting the example of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen who opened up about how menstrual cramps derailed her run at the French Open.

"How many of today`s top female players, I wonder, are harnessing the peaks and troughs of their cycle and tailoring it to their training and performance?" Murray said. "How many could feel more empowered by investing in a women`s health physio or specialist and making their entourage that bit more female-centric?" 
"... the menstrual cycle and its impact on athletic performance is an area of sports science that has been woefully neglected and only now are we beginning to understand its impact on an athlete, both psychologically and physically."

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu is hopeful she will be fit to play at Wimbledon after being forced to withdraw from next week`s WTA 250 event in Birmingham due to a side strain.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu is hopeful she will be fit to play at Wimbledon after being forced to withdraw from next week`s WTA 250 event in Birmingham due to a side strain. A "freak injury" forced Raducanu, 19, to retire from her opening match at the Nottingham Open on Tuesday but the Briton said on Wednesday she was looking forward to the rest of the grasscourt swing. "It was disappointing to go out this week with a side injury and unfortunately will no longer be able to play in Birmingham," Raducanu said in a statement released by Britain`s Lawn Tennis Association (LTA). "I`m looking forward to be back on the match court soon though to enjoy the rest of the grass season." Raducanu shot to stardom in September, 2021 when she won the U.S. Open title as a qualifier, becoming Britain`s first female Grand Slam champion since Virginia Wade in 1977. She has, however, suffered a string of fitness issues since winning her maiden Grand Slam title and was knocked out in the second round of the French Open last month. Wimbledon will be held from June 27 to July 10. Raducanu reached the last 16 at the grasscourt major in 2021. ALSO READ | Exclusive! GOAT debate over for now: Mahesh Bhupathi hails Rafael Nadal after 14th French Open title FEMALE EXPERTISE Judy Murray, a tennis coach and mother of three-times Grand Slam winner Andy, has said Raducanu needs time to mature physically and should hire experts to help her. "What`s becoming increasingly clear is that Raducanu`s body needs time to mature," Murray wrote in a column for The Telegraph. "If you strip away the fact she was catapulted into this amazing success following her U.S. Open triumph last September, she is no different to any other young player in the sense that her body needs time to fill out, become more robust and resilient. "It`s a process that simply doesn`t happen overnight, especially when the physical demands on her body are at an all-time high," Murray said, adding that her son Andy suffered from cramping while moving up from the junior circuit to the ATP. Murray also urged Raducanu to make more use of female expertise in taking care of her health, highlighting the example of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen who opened up about how menstrual cramps derailed her run at the French Open. "How many of today`s top female players, I wonder, are harnessing the peaks and troughs of their cycle and tailoring it to their training and performance?" Murray said. "How many could feel more empowered by investing in a women`s health physio or specialist and making their entourage that bit more female-centric?" "... the menstrual cycle and its impact on athletic performance is an area of sports science that has been woefully neglected and only now are we beginning to understand its impact on an athlete, both psychologically and physically."

Young star Emma Raducanu expected to be fit for Wimbledon 2022

Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic will head into next week`s tournament as the men`s top seed with Russian world number one Daniil Medvedev banned from taking part while Germany`s second-ranked Alexander Zverev is out injured. Organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam have banned players from Russia and Belarus from playing at this year`s Wimbledon following Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a `special operation`.

Zverev had surgery on torn ligaments in his right ankle this month after he was forced to retire from his French Open semi-final against Rafael Nadal. Djokovic, who was unable to defend his 2021 Australian Open title and the 2,000 ranking points he earned due to his non-vaccinated status against COVID-19, recently lost his world number one spot to Medvedev.

The Serbian, who has won the last three editions of the grasscourt major, will slip further down the rankings after Wimbledon as he will lose another 2,000 points with the ATP and WTA stripping the tournament of points. The absence of Medvedev and Zverev means Nadal, who is halfway through a possible calendar year Slam after winning the Australian and French Open titles, to be seeded second.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-reliving-novak-djokovic-roger-federers-epic-battle-in-2019-wimbledon-finale-watch-490268">THROWBACK: Reliving Novak Djokovic-Roger Federer's epic battle in 2019 Wimbledon final - WATCH</a>

It also results in Djokovic and Nadal finding themselves in different halves of the draw and they cannot face each other until the men`s final on July 10. The duo met in this year`s Roland Garros quarter-final where the Spaniard triumphed.

Britain has two players in the top 10 seeds at their home major with Cameron Norrie ninth while U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu is 10th in the absence of Belarussian Aryna Sabalenka. 
Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek will be the women`s top seed with Estonian Annett Kontaveit the number two.

Wimbledon organisers had previously used a computer-based system favouring results on grasscourts in the previous two years to determine the seedings but from the 2021 edition seedings mirror the world rankings&nbsp;

Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic will head into next week`s tournament as the men`s top seed with Russian world number one Daniil Medvedev banned from taking part while Germany`s second-ranked Alexander Zverev is out injured.

Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic will head into next week`s tournament as the men`s top seed with Russian world number one Daniil Medvedev banned from taking part while Germany`s second-ranked Alexander Zverev is out injured. Organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam have banned players from Russia and Belarus from playing at this year`s Wimbledon following Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a `special operation`. Zverev had surgery on torn ligaments in his right ankle this month after he was forced to retire from his French Open semi-final against Rafael Nadal. Djokovic, who was unable to defend his 2021 Australian Open title and the 2,000 ranking points he earned due to his non-vaccinated status against COVID-19, recently lost his world number one spot to Medvedev. The Serbian, who has won the last three editions of the grasscourt major, will slip further down the rankings after Wimbledon as he will lose another 2,000 points with the ATP and WTA stripping the tournament of points. The absence of Medvedev and Zverev means Nadal, who is halfway through a possible calendar year Slam after winning the Australian and French Open titles, to be seeded second. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: Reliving Novak Djokovic-Roger Federer's epic battle in 2019 Wimbledon final - WATCH It also results in Djokovic and Nadal finding themselves in different halves of the draw and they cannot face each other until the men`s final on July 10. The duo met in this year`s Roland Garros quarter-final where the Spaniard triumphed. Britain has two players in the top 10 seeds at their home major with Cameron Norrie ninth while U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu is 10th in the absence of Belarussian Aryna Sabalenka. Poland`s world number one Iga Swiatek will be the women`s top seed with Estonian Annett Kontaveit the number two. Wimbledon organisers had previously used a computer-based system favouring results on grasscourts in the previous two years to determine the seedings but from the 2021 edition seedings mirror the world rankings

Novak Djokovic top men's seed for Wimbledon 2022 in World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev's absence

Rafa Nadal said on Friday that he intends to compete at Wimbledon later this month when he will attempt to win a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title. After winning both the Australian and French Opens this year, Nadal, who turned 36 earlier this month, told a news conference that the pain in his injured foot has eased and he will travel to London on Monday to start his preparation for the tournament.

"I`m happy, I haven`t been limping for a week," Nadal, who won Wimbledon in 2008 and 2010, told a news conference in Mallorca.&nbsp; "I have noticed changes with the treatment, still have strange sensations, sometimes I can’t feel my foot, but the pain that did not allow me to support my weight on my foot has subsided."

Nadal explained that he intends to travel to London on Monday and he will assess how he is feeling after a week of training and exhibition matches. "My intention is to play Wimbledon, but it will all depend on what happens with my body this next week,” Nadal said.

"I’m without pain for a week and have been practising, so it tells me there may be a chance to play in the tournament." Nadal said last month in Paris that he had played Roland Garros with pain-killing injections prior to each match, but does not want to repeat that at other tournaments.

The issue, which forced him to take five months off in 2021, returned in Rome prior to the French Open, after he came back in May from a six-week injury break. Nadal has not played Wimbledon since 2019 when he reached the semi-finals. The tournament was not held the following year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and he missed the 2021 edition due to injury.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-is-not-a-tournament-rafael-nadal-opines-on-future-after-winning-14th-french-open-title-485427">'Wimbledon is not a tournament...': Rafael Nadal opines on future after winning 14th French Open title</a>

He last reached the Wimbledon final 11 years ago, when he finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic. "I haven`t played on grass for three years and I have to adapt, every day I have been recovering sensations and feeling better. I have a week left before playing and I have to test myself little by little," Nadal said. 
"Advancing in the first rounds is crucial. If you advance, you pick up the pace to reach the end. You have to survive no matter what."

Nadal also confirmed that his wife Mery Perello is pregnant with their first child. "If everything goes well, I`m going to be a father. I`m not used to talking about my private life. We live more peacefully with a lower profile. I don`t expect that my life will change much with it," he said. "At the moment all has worked well for me and I am not a friend of changing what works well. My intention is to play Wimbledon, rest, then Canada and then be ready for the US Open."

Rafa Nadal said on Friday that he intends to compete at Wimbledon later this month when he will attempt to win a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title. After winning both the Australian and French Opens this year, Nadal, who turned 36 earlier this month, told a news conference that the pain in his injured foot has eased and he will travel to London on Monday to start his preparation for the tournament.

Rafa Nadal said on Friday that he intends to compete at Wimbledon later this month when he will attempt to win a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title. After winning both the Australian and French Opens this year, Nadal, who turned 36 earlier this month, told a news conference that the pain in his injured foot has eased and he will travel to London on Monday to start his preparation for the tournament. "I`m happy, I haven`t been limping for a week," Nadal, who won Wimbledon in 2008 and 2010, told a news conference in Mallorca. "I have noticed changes with the treatment, still have strange sensations, sometimes I can’t feel my foot, but the pain that did not allow me to support my weight on my foot has subsided." Nadal explained that he intends to travel to London on Monday and he will assess how he is feeling after a week of training and exhibition matches. "My intention is to play Wimbledon, but it will all depend on what happens with my body this next week,” Nadal said. "I’m without pain for a week and have been practising, so it tells me there may be a chance to play in the tournament." Nadal said last month in Paris that he had played Roland Garros with pain-killing injections prior to each match, but does not want to repeat that at other tournaments. The issue, which forced him to take five months off in 2021, returned in Rome prior to the French Open, after he came back in May from a six-week injury break. Nadal has not played Wimbledon since 2019 when he reached the semi-finals. The tournament was not held the following year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and he missed the 2021 edition due to injury. ALSO READ | 'Wimbledon is not a tournament...': Rafael Nadal opines on future after winning 14th French Open title He last reached the Wimbledon final 11 years ago, when he finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic. "I haven`t played on grass for three years and I have to adapt, every day I have been recovering sensations and feeling better. I have a week left before playing and I have to test myself little by little," Nadal said. "Advancing in the first rounds is crucial. If you advance, you pick up the pace to reach the end. You have to survive no matter what." Nadal also confirmed that his wife Mery Perello is pregnant with their first child. "If everything goes well, I`m going to be a father. I`m not used to talking about my private life. We live more peacefully with a lower profile. I don`t expect that my life will change much with it," he said. "At the moment all has worked well for me and I am not a friend of changing what works well. My intention is to play Wimbledon, rest, then Canada and then be ready for the US Open."

Spaniard Rafael Nadal intends to play Wimbledon 2022 with foot injury improving

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka`s name appeared on the singles entry list for Wimbledon released by the organisers on Friday but veterans Roger Federer and the Williams sisters were not included. Osaka said last month that she was "not 100% sure" she would participate at the grasscourt Grand Slam because of the decision by the sport`s governing bodies to strip the tournament of ranking points had reduced her motivation to play.

Wimbledon had its ranking points taken away by the men`s ATP and women`s WTA after the grasscourt major opted to exclude players from Russia and Belarus because of Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

Osaka, 24, also withdrew from Wimbledon last year after taking time off for "personal reasons" -- a month after quitting the French Open when she was overwhelmed by media duties.

Meanwhile, seven-time singles winner Serena Williams and her sister Venus, a five-time singles champion at the All England Club, were conspicuous by their absence.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no1-iga-swiatek-demolishes-coco-gauff-in-straight-sets-to-win-second-french-open-title-485111">World no.1 Iga Swiatek demolishes Coco Gauff in straight sets to win second French Open title</a>

Serena, 40, has not played on the Tour since an injury during her first-round match at last year`s Wimbledon championships forced her to withdraw while Venus`s last appearance was at a WTA 250 event in Chicago last August.

In the men`s draw, Daniil Medvedev was the most notable omission due to the ban imposed by the All England Club. The Russian could even return to the top of the rankings without playing at Wimbledon as Novak Djokovic will lose the points he earned by lifting the title last year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-prefer-to-lose-the-final-rafael-nadal-ready-to-sacrifice-22nd-grand-slam-title-for-new-left-foot-485045">'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot</a>

Eight-times winner Roger Federer, who has not played since a quarter-final exit at Wimbledon last year, is also not on the entry list.

Federer, 40, underwent another knee surgery last year and his coach had said in March that a return at Wimbledon was unlikely for the 20-times major winner. The wildcards for the June 27-July 10 tournament are yet to be announced.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka`s name appeared on the singles entry list for Wimbledon released by the organisers on Friday but veterans Roger Federer and the Williams sisters were not included.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka`s name appeared on the singles entry list for Wimbledon released by the organisers on Friday but veterans Roger Federer and the Williams sisters were not included. Osaka said last month that she was "not 100% sure" she would participate at the grasscourt Grand Slam because of the decision by the sport`s governing bodies to strip the tournament of ranking points had reduced her motivation to play. Wimbledon had its ranking points taken away by the men`s ATP and women`s WTA after the grasscourt major opted to exclude players from Russia and Belarus because of Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. Osaka, 24, also withdrew from Wimbledon last year after taking time off for "personal reasons" -- a month after quitting the French Open when she was overwhelmed by media duties. Meanwhile, seven-time singles winner Serena Williams and her sister Venus, a five-time singles champion at the All England Club, were conspicuous by their absence. Also Read: World no.1 Iga Swiatek demolishes Coco Gauff in straight sets to win second French Open title Serena, 40, has not played on the Tour since an injury during her first-round match at last year`s Wimbledon championships forced her to withdraw while Venus`s last appearance was at a WTA 250 event in Chicago last August. In the men`s draw, Daniil Medvedev was the most notable omission due to the ban imposed by the All England Club. The Russian could even return to the top of the rankings without playing at Wimbledon as Novak Djokovic will lose the points he earned by lifting the title last year. Also Read: 'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot Eight-times winner Roger Federer, who has not played since a quarter-final exit at Wimbledon last year, is also not on the entry list. Federer, 40, underwent another knee surgery last year and his coach had said in March that a return at Wimbledon was unlikely for the 20-times major winner. The wildcards for the June 27-July 10 tournament are yet to be announced.

Naomi Osaka in Wimbledon entry list, Roger Federer and Williams sisters absent

Ahead of Wimbledon 2022, a Russian player -- Natela Dzalamidze -- has undergone a change in her nationality to avoid a ban. For the unversed, the Wimbledon organisers, the All England Club had announced in April, that players from Russia and Belarus would be barred from competing this year in the aftermath of&nbsp;Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Nonetheless, an All England Club spokesman revealed to The Times that they were powerless to interfere in Dzalamidze's change of nationality (to Georgian). He mentioned that as this was a matter for the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) and the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the All England Club couldn't do much about it whereas Dzalamidze&nbsp;had even satisfied all her entry requirements.&nbsp;"Player nationality, defined as the flag they play under at professional events, is an agreed process that is governed by tours and the ITF," the spokesman said.

After her nationality change, Dzalamidze will gear up to take part&nbsp;in the women's doubles with Serbian partner&nbsp;Aleksandra Krunic, when the tournament kicks off on June 27.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-support-it-ukraines-elina-svitolina-on-us-opens-decision-to-allow-russian-players-to-participate-489483">'I don't support it': Ukraine's Elina Svitolina on US Open’s decision to allow Russian players to participate</a>

Wimbledon's ban

The&nbsp;ban of Russian and Belarus players from the iconic tournament was a big announcement. It made heads turn and led to a widespread&nbsp;reaction&nbsp;in the tennis world, with the WTA and the ATP&nbsp;going ahead and stripping the marquee tournament of ranking points. So far, no other Grand Slam tournaments have taken such a big step with the US Open recently announcing that Russia and Belarus players will be able to participate in the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year under a neutral flag.

Following the criticism of the ban, two&nbsp;All England Club officials had even defended the decision during a news conference, saying that the&nbsp;"intensely tough and agonising decision"&nbsp;to restrict players from Russia and Belarus from Wimbledon this year was carried out only due to&nbsp;Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Citing the club’s “responsibility to play our part in limiting the possibility of Wimbledon being used to justify the harm being done to others by the Russian regime,” Chief Executive Sally Bolton said, “we believe that this decision is the only viable option for Wimbledon.”

While all eyes are on the marquee event to commence next week, Wimbledon's ban will see some big-ticket players missing out, such as world number 1 Daniil Medvedev&nbsp;as well as two-time major winner 32-year-old Victoria Azarenka.

Ahead of Wimbledon 2022, a Russian player -- Natela Dzalamidze -- has undergone a change in her nationality to avoid a ban. For the unversed, the Wimbledon organisers, the All England Club had announced in April, that players from Russia and Belarus would be barred from competing this year in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Ahead of Wimbledon 2022, a Russian player -- Natela Dzalamidze -- has undergone a change in her nationality to avoid a ban. For the unversed, the Wimbledon organisers, the All England Club had announced in April, that players from Russia and Belarus would be barred from competing this year in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Nonetheless, an All England Club spokesman revealed to The Times that they were powerless to interfere in Dzalamidze's change of nationality (to Georgian). He mentioned that as this was a matter for the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) and the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the All England Club couldn't do much about it whereas Dzalamidze had even satisfied all her entry requirements. "Player nationality, defined as the flag they play under at professional events, is an agreed process that is governed by tours and the ITF," the spokesman said. After her nationality change, Dzalamidze will gear up to take part in the women's doubles with Serbian partner Aleksandra Krunic, when the tournament kicks off on June 27. ALSO READ | 'I don't support it': Ukraine's Elina Svitolina on US Open’s decision to allow Russian players to participate Wimbledon's ban The ban of Russian and Belarus players from the iconic tournament was a big announcement. It made heads turn and led to a widespread reaction in the tennis world, with the WTA and the ATP going ahead and stripping the marquee tournament of ranking points. So far, no other Grand Slam tournaments have taken such a big step with the US Open recently announcing that Russia and Belarus players will be able to participate in the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year under a neutral flag. Following the criticism of the ban, two All England Club officials had even defended the decision during a news conference, saying that the "intensely tough and agonising decision" to restrict players from Russia and Belarus from Wimbledon this year was carried out only due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Citing the club’s “responsibility to play our part in limiting the possibility of Wimbledon being used to justify the harm being done to others by the Russian regime,” Chief Executive Sally Bolton said, “we believe that this decision is the only viable option for Wimbledon.” While all eyes are on the marquee event to commence next week, Wimbledon's ban will see some big-ticket players missing out, such as world number 1 Daniil Medvedev as well as two-time major winner 32-year-old Victoria Azarenka.

Ahead of Wimbledon 2022, Russian player avoids ban by changing nationality: Report

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