Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out of Wimbledon in the first round on Monday, losing 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 to Frances Tiafoe. It denotes Stefanos Tsitsipas' third opening-round exit at the Championships in four appearances.&nbsp;

The Greek, who completed as the runner-up at Roland Garros, didn't play any warm-up matches on grass ahead of Wimbledon. While weariness from a tiring claycourt mission might have been an explanation, his grandmothers' demise may have additionally had an influence on his choice.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-djokovic-avoids-shock-as-centre-court-comes-back-to-life-394535" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life</a>

Addressing the media after his loss to Frances Tiafoe, Stefanos Tsitsipas conceded he may have profited with playing a few matches ahead of the Wimbledon season: "I was thinking maybe I should have played the week before Wimbledon, either Mallorca or Eastbourne, I'm not sure. Any of these tournaments would have helped, for sure, get me in a better shape, get my tennis ready for the grass-court season."

The Greek piled acclaim on his rival, who played forceful tennis beginning to end. Stefanos Tsitsipas, then again, was very inactive, which he conceded prompted his downfall. He said: "Fair to say he played really well. I wasn’t able to maintain the intensity. I wasn’t able to put something better than him. It ended up going his way. I was a bit more passive. I didn’t approach my game with the same strategy."

Stefanos Tsitsipas conceded he needed motivation against Frances Tiafoe, yet rushed to call attention to that it was not the justification of his dreary exhibition. He, who has never been past the fourth round at Wimbledon, demanded he has the range of abilities to prevail on grass: "There have been times when I was much more motivated than this but that is not a reason for me not to play well."Again, I’d like to pinpoint and say I have all the qualities to play on grass. I haven’t had a lot of matches on grass."

Since the tour resumed last year, life for tennis players has primarily elaborate going from the bubble of one competition to another because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stefanos Tsitsipas conceded that moving from one bubble to another was mentally depleting. He said: "The bubble makes it really tiring every week. It’s certainly very difficult when you know mentally you’re going from one bubble, being in that bubble for close to a month &amp; then a few weeks later you need to go through the procedure again, it’s just not easy." 
&nbsp;

Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out of Wimbledon in the first round on Monday, losing 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 to Frances Tiafoe. It denotes Stefanos Tsitsipas' third opening-round exit at the Championships in four appearances.

Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out of Wimbledon in the first round on Monday, losing 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 to Frances Tiafoe. It denotes Stefanos Tsitsipas' third opening-round exit at the Championships in four appearances. The Greek, who completed as the runner-up at Roland Garros, didn't play any warm-up matches on grass ahead of Wimbledon. While weariness from a tiring claycourt mission might have been an explanation, his grandmothers' demise may have additionally had an influence on his choice. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life Addressing the media after his loss to Frances Tiafoe, Stefanos Tsitsipas conceded he may have profited with playing a few matches ahead of the Wimbledon season: "I was thinking maybe I should have played the week before Wimbledon, either Mallorca or Eastbourne, I'm not sure. Any of these tournaments would have helped, for sure, get me in a better shape, get my tennis ready for the grass-court season." The Greek piled acclaim on his rival, who played forceful tennis beginning to end. Stefanos Tsitsipas, then again, was very inactive, which he conceded prompted his downfall. He said: "Fair to say he played really well. I wasn’t able to maintain the intensity. I wasn’t able to put something better than him. It ended up going his way. I was a bit more passive. I didn’t approach my game with the same strategy." Stefanos Tsitsipas conceded he needed motivation against Frances Tiafoe, yet rushed to call attention to that it was not the justification of his dreary exhibition. He, who has never been past the fourth round at Wimbledon, demanded he has the range of abilities to prevail on grass: "There have been times when I was much more motivated than this but that is not a reason for me not to play well."Again, I’d like to pinpoint and say I have all the qualities to play on grass. I haven’t had a lot of matches on grass." Since the tour resumed last year, life for tennis players has primarily elaborate going from the bubble of one competition to another because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stefanos Tsitsipas conceded that moving from one bubble to another was mentally depleting. He said: "The bubble makes it really tiring every week. It’s certainly very difficult when you know mentally you’re going from one bubble, being in that bubble for close to a month & then a few weeks later you need to go through the procedure again, it’s just not easy."

Wimbledon 2021: 'I was a bit more passive': Stefanos Tsitsipas on losing to Frances Tiafoe

Twice champion Andy Murray survived a third-set meltdown to beat Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-4 6-3 5-7 6-3 on Monday in his first singles match at Wimbledon for four years.

Back on the hallowed Centre Court turf on which he made himself a British sporting icon, the 34-year-old delighted his fans as he rolled back the years, producing vintage shot-making to lead by two sets and 5-0 in the third.

But in a bizarre twist, he lost seven successive games to send the match into a fourth set.

An interruption while the Centre Court roof slid into place appeared to help settle Murray's nerves and he got the job done to set up a second-round against Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech or Germany's Oscar Otte -- both qualifiers.

"I did well to win the fourth set in the end because that was mentally not easy going to the locker room after losing that third," Murray, who received a thunderous ovation at the conclusion from the 7,500 crowd, said on court.

"It was just disappointing to lose the third set. I had to remember what I was doing to get into a winning position. I think I served better in the fourth and turned it around."

Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, had not played a singles match at Wimbledon since he hobbled to a quarter-final defeat against American Sam Querrey in 2017.

That loss was the beginning of a dark chapter in Murray's career as he underwent hip surgery in 2018 and 2019.

The journey back has been a tortuous one and after missing the Australian Open because of a positive COVID-19 test and then suffering niggling injuries he arrived at Wimbledon with only five Tour-level matches under his belt this year.

TIGHT SET

He was roared on to the court for the early-evening clash and responded in style to edge a tight opening set when he broke the Basilashvili serve in the 10th game.

The powerful Basilashvili stretched Murray in the second set but after squandering breakpoints at 2-2 and 3-3 he lost heart as Murray began to cruise towards the finish line.

But Wimbledon would not be Wimbledon without some first-day drama and the match took a bizarre turn as Murray suddenly got tight as his lead began to shrink.

When Basilashvili saved two match points at 3-5, Murray began to resemble a man with his arm encased in concrete.

Tension filled the air with Murray's game beginning to unravel and Basilashvili claimed the third set after an exchange of volleys.

Basilashvili recovered from two sets down to beat Britain's James Ward in the first round in 2019 and with nagging doubts about Murray's physical condition, a repeat looked possible.

But Murray had a shower during the interruption for the roof closure and if&nbsp;he broke his opponent's serve to love twice to regain control.

Basilashvili dug deep to stay in touch and the Georgian had a breakpoint to get back to 4-4, only for Murray to stave off the danger with an exquisite drop shot.

Basilashvili saved a third match point with a backhand winner but at the fourth time of asking Murray sealed victory when his opponent sent a backhand into the net.

Twice champion Andy Murray survived a third-set meltdown to beat Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-4 6-3 5-7 6-3 on Monday in his first singles match at Wimbledon for four years.

Twice champion Andy Murray survived a third-set meltdown to beat Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-4 6-3 5-7 6-3 on Monday in his first singles match at Wimbledon for four years. Back on the hallowed Centre Court turf on which he made himself a British sporting icon, the 34-year-old delighted his fans as he rolled back the years, producing vintage shot-making to lead by two sets and 5-0 in the third. But in a bizarre twist, he lost seven successive games to send the match into a fourth set. An interruption while the Centre Court roof slid into place appeared to help settle Murray's nerves and he got the job done to set up a second-round against Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech or Germany's Oscar Otte -- both qualifiers. "I did well to win the fourth set in the end because that was mentally not easy going to the locker room after losing that third," Murray, who received a thunderous ovation at the conclusion from the 7,500 crowd, said on court. "It was just disappointing to lose the third set. I had to remember what I was doing to get into a winning position. I think I served better in the fourth and turned it around." Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, had not played a singles match at Wimbledon since he hobbled to a quarter-final defeat against American Sam Querrey in 2017. That loss was the beginning of a dark chapter in Murray's career as he underwent hip surgery in 2018 and 2019. The journey back has been a tortuous one and after missing the Australian Open because of a positive COVID-19 test and then suffering niggling injuries he arrived at Wimbledon with only five Tour-level matches under his belt this year. TIGHT SET He was roared on to the court for the early-evening clash and responded in style to edge a tight opening set when he broke the Basilashvili serve in the 10th game. The powerful Basilashvili stretched Murray in the second set but after squandering breakpoints at 2-2 and 3-3 he lost heart as Murray began to cruise towards the finish line. But Wimbledon would not be Wimbledon without some first-day drama and the match took a bizarre turn as Murray suddenly got tight as his lead began to shrink. When Basilashvili saved two match points at 3-5, Murray began to resemble a man with his arm encased in concrete. Tension filled the air with Murray's game beginning to unravel and Basilashvili claimed the third set after an exchange of volleys. Basilashvili recovered from two sets down to beat Britain's James Ward in the first round in 2019 and with nagging doubts about Murray's physical condition, a repeat looked possible. But Murray had a shower during the interruption for the roof closure and if he broke his opponent's serve to love twice to regain control. Basilashvili dug deep to stay in touch and the Georgian had a breakpoint to get back to 4-4, only for Murray to stave off the danger with an exquisite drop shot. Basilashvili saved a third match point with a backhand winner but at the fourth time of asking Murray sealed victory when his opponent sent a backhand into the net.

Tennis: Andy Murray survives big wobble to win on Wimbledon return

Ashleigh Barty will meet visit veteran Carla Suarez Navarro in her first-round match at Wimbledon 2021. Without reigning champ Simona Halep, the All England Club has chosen to give Ashleigh Barty the honor of opening procedures on Center Court on Tuesday.&nbsp;

After very nearly a year-long break because of the pandemic, Ashleigh Barty's beginning to 2021 was genuinely noteworthy. The 2019 Roland Garros champion has made four finals effectively this year, winning three of them. Ashleigh Barty's best outcome at the All England Club came two years prior when she made the fourth round. She would be quick to enhance that in the 2021 version of the competition.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-djokovic-avoids-shock-as-centre-court-comes-back-to-life-394535" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life</a>

Suarez Navarro, in the interim, beat cancer recently and reported that 2021 would be the last period of her vocation. She played the initial match of her comeback at the French Open recently, where she went down battling in three sets against Sloane Stephens. Playing in her eleventh Wimbledon draw, she has arrived at the fourth round thrice.

<h3>Head-to-Head</h3>

There is no head-to-head record between Ashleigh Barty and Carla Suarez Navarro since this will be the first occasion when that they will go head-to-head in the main tour.&nbsp;

<h3>Ashleigh Barty versus Carla Suarez Navarro&nbsp;</h3>

As of now world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty will begin her journey at Wimbledon after she played her last match in Paris where she lost 6-1 2-2 to Magda Linette in the second round.&nbsp;

Ashleigh Barty has a general 28-6 success loss record in 2021, 0-0 on grass. This will be the principal match of the year on grass. Discussing her general profession, Ashleigh Barty has a by and large 280-98 record. She has a positive 52-16 record on the grass.&nbsp;

Positioned no. 138, Carla Suarez Navarro will begin her spat London after she played her last match in Paris where she lost 3-6 7-6(4) 6-4 to Stephens in the first round.

Carla Suarez Navarro has a general 0-1 success loss record in 2021, 0-0 on grass. This will be the primary match of the period on grass. As far as her profession, Carla has a generally 448-309 record. She has a positive 28-25 record on grass.&nbsp;

<h3>Prediction&nbsp;</h3>

Ashleigh Barty's game has regularly been hailed as ideal for speedy grasscourt conditions. She has an assortment of shots in her munitions stockpile alongside wonderful court inclusion, the two of which are resources on a superficial level.&nbsp;

Suarez Navarro will hope to assume responsibility for the conventions with her topspin forehand, and move the favorite around with her flexible solitary strike.

Ashleigh Barty will meet visit veteran Carla Suarez Navarro in her first-round match at Wimbledon 2021. Without reigning champ Simona Halep, the All England Club has chosen to give Ashleigh Barty the honor of opening procedures on Center Court on Tuesday.

Ashleigh Barty will meet visit veteran Carla Suarez Navarro in her first-round match at Wimbledon 2021. Without reigning champ Simona Halep, the All England Club has chosen to give Ashleigh Barty the honor of opening procedures on Center Court on Tuesday. After very nearly a year-long break because of the pandemic, Ashleigh Barty's beginning to 2021 was genuinely noteworthy. The 2019 Roland Garros champion has made four finals effectively this year, winning three of them. Ashleigh Barty's best outcome at the All England Club came two years prior when she made the fourth round. She would be quick to enhance that in the 2021 version of the competition. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life Suarez Navarro, in the interim, beat cancer recently and reported that 2021 would be the last period of her vocation. She played the initial match of her comeback at the French Open recently, where she went down battling in three sets against Sloane Stephens. Playing in her eleventh Wimbledon draw, she has arrived at the fourth round thrice. Head-to-Head There is no head-to-head record between Ashleigh Barty and Carla Suarez Navarro since this will be the first occasion when that they will go head-to-head in the main tour. Ashleigh Barty versus Carla Suarez Navarro As of now world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty will begin her journey at Wimbledon after she played her last match in Paris where she lost 6-1 2-2 to Magda Linette in the second round. Ashleigh Barty has a general 28-6 success loss record in 2021, 0-0 on grass. This will be the principal match of the year on grass. Discussing her general profession, Ashleigh Barty has a by and large 280-98 record. She has a positive 52-16 record on the grass. Positioned no. 138, Carla Suarez Navarro will begin her spat London after she played her last match in Paris where she lost 3-6 7-6(4) 6-4 to Stephens in the first round. Carla Suarez Navarro has a general 0-1 success loss record in 2021, 0-0 on grass. This will be the primary match of the period on grass. As far as her profession, Carla has a generally 448-309 record. She has a positive 28-25 record on grass. Prediction Ashleigh Barty's game has regularly been hailed as ideal for speedy grasscourt conditions. She has an assortment of shots in her munitions stockpile alongside wonderful court inclusion, the two of which are resources on a superficial level. Suarez Navarro will hope to assume responsibility for the conventions with her topspin forehand, and move the favorite around with her flexible solitary strike.

Wimbledon 2021: Ashleigh Barty faces veteran Carla Suarez Navarro in the first-round

Third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas has been knocked out of the Wimbledon 2021 in a shocking loss to American ace Frances Tiafoe in the very first round on Monday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-djokovic-avoids-shock-as-centre-court-comes-back-to-life-394535" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life</a>

The Greek tennis star was cleaned up in straight sets 4-6, 4-6, 3-6 in his third first-round loss at the grass-court Slam after 2017 after 2019.&nbsp;

This is Frances Tiafoe, who is currently 57th ranked in ATP's list, biggest win and he will proceed into the second round.

Tsitsipas dominated the match in terms of Aces, first-serve percentage and winning the receiving points. However, the American player still managed to get the better of Roland Garros finalist.&nbsp;

Earlier, World No. 1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic came back from behind to beat 10-year-old Jake Draper.&nbsp;

"It feels great seeing everyone and being back on the most sacred tennis court in the world," Djokovic, who is bidding to win a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, said on court.

"It was very sad last year that Wimbledon was cancelled but really glad the sport is back."

Third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas has been knocked out of the Wimbledon 2021 in a shocking loss to American ace Frances Tiafoe in the very first round on Monday. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life The Greek tennis star was cleaned up in straight sets 4-6, 4-6, 3-6 in his third first-round loss at the grass-court Slam after 2017 after 2019.

Third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas has been knocked out of the Wimbledon 2021 in a shocking loss to American ace Frances Tiafoe in the very first round on Monday. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life The Greek tennis star was cleaned up in straight sets 4-6, 4-6, 3-6 in his third first-round loss at the grass-court Slam after 2017 after 2019. This is Frances Tiafoe, who is currently 57th ranked in ATP's list, biggest win and he will proceed into the second round. Tsitsipas dominated the match in terms of Aces, first-serve percentage and winning the receiving points. However, the American player still managed to get the better of Roland Garros finalist. Earlier, World No. 1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic came back from behind to beat 10-year-old Jake Draper. "It feels great seeing everyone and being back on the most sacred tennis court in the world," Djokovic, who is bidding to win a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, said on court. "It was very sad last year that Wimbledon was cancelled but really glad the sport is back."

Wimbledon 2021: Third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas crashes out in first round

Murky skies and drizzle could not dampen the enthusiasm of spectators arriving on Monday for the start of the 134th Wimbledon Championships which were cancelled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
COVID-19 protocols mean this year`s tournament will look and feel a little different -- but one old Wimbledon tradition remained firmly intact with rain delaying the scheduled 1000GMT start on the outside courts. 
 
Fittingly for the eagerly-awaited return of the tournament, Andy Murray will resume his role as flag-bearer for the home nation with a prime time engagement later on Centre Court. 
 
Whisper it quietly, but it almost feels like old times. 
 
Not quite, though, like Wimbledon, being used as a government-approved "pilot event", will be missing some old favourites. 
 
The iconic "queue" for daily entry will not form, Henman Hill will be sparsely populated and fans will not have the thrill of bumping into famous players strolling to the grounds from plush rentals in the Village. 
 
Players will all be staying in a central London hotel to minimise the risks of COVID-19 infections. 
 
Crowds will be thinner too with attendances limited to 50% of ground capacity, although hopefully rising to full houses on Centre Court for the men`s and women`s finals on July 10-11. 
 
But after last year`s cancellation, the first since the Second World War, excitement is brewing for a fortnight of grasscourt drama, even if there are notable absentees. 
 
Spaniard Rafa Nadal, whose 2008 final win over Roger Federer is part of Wimbledon folklore, is not playing. Neither is reigning women`s champion Simona Halep nor Japan`s four-times Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka. 
 
POSITIVE TEST 
 
British number one Johanna Konta withdrew on the eve of the tournament after a member of her entourage tested positive for COVID-19 -- a worrying start for nervy organisers. 
 
But a high-quality cast has assembled in the biosecure bubble and women`s top seed Ash Barty summed up what Wimbledon means. 
 
"You walk through the gates here at the All England Club and you`re instantly filled with gratitude," the Australian said. 
 
"It was a tournament that was sorely missed last year. Every time you get to walk through these gates, it`s a feeling that you can`t take for granted." 
 
For Murray, who ended a 77-year drought for British men when he won the 2013 title and triumphed again three years later, Wimbledon represents a return to some kind of normality. 
 
The former world number one has not played a singles match at the All England Club since a quarter-final defeat by Sam Querrey in 2017 -- after which his body began to fail and his career appeared to be hanging by a thread. 
 
"I know it`s not normal, but it feels somewhat normal now..., with all the players around and practising, knowing that... we`ll be playing not in front of a full crowd but in front of a lot of people," Murray said. 
 
The 34-year-old will close the schedule on Centre Court against Georgian 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili. 
 
Men`s defending champion Novak Djokovic is due to open proceedings on Centre Court against British teenage wildcard Jack Draper as he begins his quest for a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title. 
 
Two-time women`s champion Petra Kvitova is next up against former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens in the pick of the women`s first-round action.

Murky skies and drizzle could not dampen the enthusiasm of spectators arriving on Monday for the start of the 134th Wimbledon Championships which were cancelled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Murky skies and drizzle could not dampen the enthusiasm of spectators arriving on Monday for the start of the 134th Wimbledon Championships which were cancelled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. COVID-19 protocols mean this year`s tournament will look and feel a little different -- but one old Wimbledon tradition remained firmly intact with rain delaying the scheduled 1000GMT start on the outside courts. Fittingly for the eagerly-awaited return of the tournament, Andy Murray will resume his role as flag-bearer for the home nation with a prime time engagement later on Centre Court. Whisper it quietly, but it almost feels like old times. Not quite, though, like Wimbledon, being used as a government-approved "pilot event", will be missing some old favourites. The iconic "queue" for daily entry will not form, Henman Hill will be sparsely populated and fans will not have the thrill of bumping into famous players strolling to the grounds from plush rentals in the Village. Players will all be staying in a central London hotel to minimise the risks of COVID-19 infections. Crowds will be thinner too with attendances limited to 50% of ground capacity, although hopefully rising to full houses on Centre Court for the men`s and women`s finals on July 10-11. But after last year`s cancellation, the first since the Second World War, excitement is brewing for a fortnight of grasscourt drama, even if there are notable absentees. Spaniard Rafa Nadal, whose 2008 final win over Roger Federer is part of Wimbledon folklore, is not playing. Neither is reigning women`s champion Simona Halep nor Japan`s four-times Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka. POSITIVE TEST British number one Johanna Konta withdrew on the eve of the tournament after a member of her entourage tested positive for COVID-19 -- a worrying start for nervy organisers. But a high-quality cast has assembled in the biosecure bubble and women`s top seed Ash Barty summed up what Wimbledon means. "You walk through the gates here at the All England Club and you`re instantly filled with gratitude," the Australian said. "It was a tournament that was sorely missed last year. Every time you get to walk through these gates, it`s a feeling that you can`t take for granted." For Murray, who ended a 77-year drought for British men when he won the 2013 title and triumphed again three years later, Wimbledon represents a return to some kind of normality. The former world number one has not played a singles match at the All England Club since a quarter-final defeat by Sam Querrey in 2017 -- after which his body began to fail and his career appeared to be hanging by a thread. "I know it`s not normal, but it feels somewhat normal now..., with all the players around and practising, knowing that... we`ll be playing not in front of a full crowd but in front of a lot of people," Murray said. The 34-year-old will close the schedule on Centre Court against Georgian 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili. Men`s defending champion Novak Djokovic is due to open proceedings on Centre Court against British teenage wildcard Jack Draper as he begins his quest for a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title. Two-time women`s champion Petra Kvitova is next up against former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens in the pick of the women`s first-round action.

Tennis- Just like old times as rain delays start of Wimbledon

Defending champion Novak Djokovic overcame an early fright to fend off British teenager Jack Draper 4-6 6-1 6-2 6-2 and launch his quest for a sixth title as Wimbledon returned after a two-year absence on Monday.

The first match on Centre Court since Djokovic's nailbiting victory over Roger Federer in the 2019 final -- 716 days ago -- was a classic David versus Goliath clash.

And while there was to be no dream Grand Slam debut for 19-year-old Draper, the match proved the perfect way to bring Centre Court back to life after it's enforced silence.

Djokovic has never lost a Grand Slam match to a player ranked as low as world number 253 Draper, but looked a little stunned as he struggled to find his footing on the greasy turf and contain the fearless hitting of the Briton.

Grand Slam main draw debutant Draper broke serve in the third game and made a mockery of his inexperience to win the opening set to huge roars from the crowd.

Twice Djokovic found himself on his backside in the first set and with the roof closed because of the rain that delayed play on the outside courts, the stage looked perfect for a Wimbledon shock of monumental proportions.

But Djokovic is not a 19-times Grand Slam champion for nothing and the Serb quickly snuffed out the danger, levelling the match by dominating a 26-minute second set.

When Draper completely missed an overhead to drop serve in the second set, Djokovic roared in relief.

From that point on it was straightforward enough for Djokovic who looked immaculate as he completed his victory.

"It feels great seeing everyone and being back on the most sacred tennis court in the world," Djokovic, who is bidding to win a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, said on court.

"It was very sad last year that Wimbledon was cancelled but really glad the sport is back."

Defending champion Novak Djokovic overcame an early fright to fend off British teenager Jack Draper 4-6 6-1 6-2 6-2 and launch his quest for a sixth title as Wimbledon returned after a two-year absence on Monday.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic overcame an early fright to fend off British teenager Jack Draper 4-6 6-1 6-2 6-2 and launch his quest for a sixth title as Wimbledon returned after a two-year absence on Monday. The first match on Centre Court since Djokovic's nailbiting victory over Roger Federer in the 2019 final -- 716 days ago -- was a classic David versus Goliath clash. And while there was to be no dream Grand Slam debut for 19-year-old Draper, the match proved the perfect way to bring Centre Court back to life after it's enforced silence. Djokovic has never lost a Grand Slam match to a player ranked as low as world number 253 Draper, but looked a little stunned as he struggled to find his footing on the greasy turf and contain the fearless hitting of the Briton. Grand Slam main draw debutant Draper broke serve in the third game and made a mockery of his inexperience to win the opening set to huge roars from the crowd. Twice Djokovic found himself on his backside in the first set and with the roof closed because of the rain that delayed play on the outside courts, the stage looked perfect for a Wimbledon shock of monumental proportions. But Djokovic is not a 19-times Grand Slam champion for nothing and the Serb quickly snuffed out the danger, levelling the match by dominating a 26-minute second set. When Draper completely missed an overhead to drop serve in the second set, Djokovic roared in relief. From that point on it was straightforward enough for Djokovic who looked immaculate as he completed his victory. "It feels great seeing everyone and being back on the most sacred tennis court in the world," Djokovic, who is bidding to win a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam title, said on court. "It was very sad last year that Wimbledon was cancelled but really glad the sport is back."

Wimbledon 2021: Djokovic avoids shock as Centre Court comes back to life

Andy Murray gets back to singles action at Wimbledon interestingly since 2017 when he faces Nikoloz Basilashvili in the first round on Monday.&nbsp;

Andy Murray, who prevailed at the All England Club in 2013 and 2016, has had almost no training on the grass in front of the current year's release. Andy Murray partook in Queen's, the place where he beat Benoit Paire 6-3, 6-2 in his opener prior to falling in the second round to possible victor Matteo Berrettini.&nbsp;

Nikoloz Basilashvili, in the meantime, has had a blended season hitherto. He has two titles in 2021, yet has additionally endured a line of early losses in different competitions. The Georgian lost right off the bat in Stuttgart, as well, tumbling to Marin Cilic in the second round. In any case, he made it to the elimination rounds at Halle, where he was ultimately crushed by Andrey Rublev.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-preview-novak-djokovic-to-play-jack-draper-as-wimbledon-returns-394421" hreflang="en">Tennis - Preview: Novak Djokovic to play Jack Draper as Wimbledon returns</a>

<h3>Head-to-Head</h3>

There is no head-to-head record between Nikoloz Basilashvili and Andy Murray since this will be the first occasion when that they will go head to head in the main tour.&nbsp;

<h3>Nikoloz Basilashvili vs&nbsp;Andy Murray</h3>

Positioned no. 28, Nikoloz Basilashvili will begin his spat Wimbledon after he played his last match in Halle where he lost 6-1 3 6-3 to Rublev in the elimination round.

The Georgian has a created 21-16 success loss record in 2021, 6-2 on grass. Discussing his general vocation, Nikoloz Basilashvili has a by and large 358-298 record. He has a negative 18-20 record on the grass.&nbsp;

Positioned no. 119, Andy Murray will begin his disagreement in London after he played his last match in London where he lost 6-3 6-3 to Matteo Berrettini in the second round.

Andy Murray has a created 6-4 success loss record in 2021, 1-1 on grass. As far as his vocation, The Brit has a generally speaking 775-239 record. He has a positive 115-30 record on the grass.&nbsp;

<h3>Prediction</h3>

Taking everything into account, Andy Murray is the predominant at grasscourt, yet Nikoloz Basilashvili has the apparatuses to cause an agitated. Andy Murray's physical fitness is as yet under the scanner and if the match goes all the way, the Georgian could be the one to leave away with a success.&nbsp;

This vows to be a breaking challenge. Nikoloz Basilashvili has the weapons to test Andy Murray's safeguard, yet the Georgian additionally tends to go back and forth during matches.

&nbsp;

Andy Murray gets back to singles action at Wimbledon interestingly since 2017 when he faces Nikoloz Basilashvili in the first round on Monday. Andy Murray, who prevailed at the All England Club in 2013 and 2016, has had almost no training on the grass in front of the current year's release.

Andy Murray gets back to singles action at Wimbledon interestingly since 2017 when he faces Nikoloz Basilashvili in the first round on Monday. Andy Murray, who prevailed at the All England Club in 2013 and 2016, has had almost no training on the grass in front of the current year's release. Andy Murray partook in Queen's, the place where he beat Benoit Paire 6-3, 6-2 in his opener prior to falling in the second round to possible victor Matteo Berrettini. Nikoloz Basilashvili, in the meantime, has had a blended season hitherto. He has two titles in 2021, yet has additionally endured a line of early losses in different competitions. The Georgian lost right off the bat in Stuttgart, as well, tumbling to Marin Cilic in the second round. In any case, he made it to the elimination rounds at Halle, where he was ultimately crushed by Andrey Rublev. ALSO READ: Tennis - Preview: Novak Djokovic to play Jack Draper as Wimbledon returns Head-to-Head There is no head-to-head record between Nikoloz Basilashvili and Andy Murray since this will be the first occasion when that they will go head to head in the main tour. Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Andy Murray Positioned no. 28, Nikoloz Basilashvili will begin his spat Wimbledon after he played his last match in Halle where he lost 6-1 3 6-3 to Rublev in the elimination round. The Georgian has a created 21-16 success loss record in 2021, 6-2 on grass. Discussing his general vocation, Nikoloz Basilashvili has a by and large 358-298 record. He has a negative 18-20 record on the grass. Positioned no. 119, Andy Murray will begin his disagreement in London after he played his last match in London where he lost 6-3 6-3 to Matteo Berrettini in the second round. Andy Murray has a created 6-4 success loss record in 2021, 1-1 on grass. As far as his vocation, The Brit has a generally speaking 775-239 record. He has a positive 115-30 record on the grass. Prediction Taking everything into account, Andy Murray is the predominant at grasscourt, yet Nikoloz Basilashvili has the apparatuses to cause an agitated. Andy Murray's physical fitness is as yet under the scanner and if the match goes all the way, the Georgian could be the one to leave away with a success. This vows to be a breaking challenge. Nikoloz Basilashvili has the weapons to test Andy Murray's safeguard, yet the Georgian additionally tends to go back and forth during matches.

Tennis: Andy Murray takes on Nikoloz Basilashvili on his Wimbledon return

Wimbledon is going to rise up out of hibernation as it returns on Monday following a one-year hole, having been dropped in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, in standard practice, protecting men's hero Novak Djokovic will open Center Court activity with his first-round clash.&nbsp;

The 34-year-old will currently take on trump card Jack Draper in his first match at Wimbledon 2021.&nbsp;

Jack Draper, at presently positioned 250th in the world, is perhaps the most encouraging British tennis player on a visit right now. The 19-year-old was the sprinter up at the 2018 Wimbledon youngsters, and he comes into SW19 this year high on certainty.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-i-am-trying-to-reach-the-top-novak-djokovic-ahead-of-the-historic-wimbledon-campaign-394235" hreflang="en">Tennis: 'I am trying to reach the top': Novak Djokovic ahead of the historic Wimbledon campaign</a>

<h3>Head-to-Head</h3>

There is no head-to-head record between Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper since this will be the first occasion when that they will get down to business in the main tour.&nbsp;

<h3>Novak Djokovic vs Jack Draper&nbsp;</h3>

At present world no. 1 Novak Djokovic will begin his season at Wimbledon he won the title at the Roland Garros in the wake of beating 6-7(6) 2 6-3 6-2 6-4 Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final.&nbsp;The Serbian has a total 27-3 success loss record in 2021, 0-0 on grass. Novak Djokovic has won his last 11 matches.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic's inside and out game is superior to anybody's at this moment, and his fast development and dependable service make him the best grass court in the men's draw. All things considered, the Serb would be careful about any early mental lapses in London.

Jack Draper, on his part, is an overall obscure on the visit. Yet, the Brit demonstrated his capacity on the grass at Queen's, and he will get a considerable amount of help from the Center Court spectators. Positioned no. 250, the Brit will begin his stint at London he played his last match in London where he lost 6-3 6-3 to Cameron Norrie in the quarter.

The Brit has a formed 13-8 success loss record in 2021, 2-1 on grass. Jack Draper's best aftereffect of the current year was arriving at the last in M25 Prague. As far as his vocation, Jack Draper has a by and large 102-40 record. He has a negative 3-6 record on grass.

<h3>Prediction</h3>

Double reigning champ Novak Djokovic will get back to SW19 upbeat after a solid grass crusade in the Men's Doubles in Mallorca. The Serb probably required a straightforwardness into the grass-court season with little consideration after a particularly unfathomable triumph at the French Open.&nbsp;

This will be the greatest day by a wide margin of youthful Jack Draper's vocation. The Brit will be all around upheld against the defending champ, Novak Djokovic.

Wimbledon is going to rise up out of hibernation as it returns on Monday following a one-year hole, having been dropped in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wimbledon is going to rise up out of hibernation as it returns on Monday following a one-year hole, having been dropped in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, in standard practice, protecting men's hero Novak Djokovic will open Center Court activity with his first-round clash. The 34-year-old will currently take on trump card Jack Draper in his first match at Wimbledon 2021. Jack Draper, at presently positioned 250th in the world, is perhaps the most encouraging British tennis player on a visit right now. The 19-year-old was the sprinter up at the 2018 Wimbledon youngsters, and he comes into SW19 this year high on certainty. ALSO READ: Tennis: 'I am trying to reach the top': Novak Djokovic ahead of the historic Wimbledon campaign Head-to-Head There is no head-to-head record between Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper since this will be the first occasion when that they will get down to business in the main tour. Novak Djokovic vs Jack Draper At present world no. 1 Novak Djokovic will begin his season at Wimbledon he won the title at the Roland Garros in the wake of beating 6-7(6) 2 6-3 6-2 6-4 Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final. The Serbian has a total 27-3 success loss record in 2021, 0-0 on grass. Novak Djokovic has won his last 11 matches. Novak Djokovic's inside and out game is superior to anybody's at this moment, and his fast development and dependable service make him the best grass court in the men's draw. All things considered, the Serb would be careful about any early mental lapses in London. Jack Draper, on his part, is an overall obscure on the visit. Yet, the Brit demonstrated his capacity on the grass at Queen's, and he will get a considerable amount of help from the Center Court spectators. Positioned no. 250, the Brit will begin his stint at London he played his last match in London where he lost 6-3 6-3 to Cameron Norrie in the quarter. The Brit has a formed 13-8 success loss record in 2021, 2-1 on grass. Jack Draper's best aftereffect of the current year was arriving at the last in M25 Prague. As far as his vocation, Jack Draper has a by and large 102-40 record. He has a negative 3-6 record on grass. Prediction Double reigning champ Novak Djokovic will get back to SW19 upbeat after a solid grass crusade in the Men's Doubles in Mallorca. The Serb probably required a straightforwardness into the grass-court season with little consideration after a particularly unfathomable triumph at the French Open. This will be the greatest day by a wide margin of youthful Jack Draper's vocation. The Brit will be all around upheld against the defending champ, Novak Djokovic.

Tennis - Preview: Novak Djokovic to play Jack Draper as Wimbledon returns

Andy Murray exchanged hits with Roger Federer prior on Saturday, sending online media swirling. Addressing Sky Sports after his training meeting with the Swiss maestro, Andy Murray said that the experience was truly cool and that he liked such minutes more now than he did in his pinnacle years.&nbsp;

Both Roger Federer and Andy Murray are Wimbledon legends. While Roger Federer has won a record eight titles at SW19, Andy Murray has lifted the trophy twice.&nbsp;

"Getting to play with Roger was really cool for me. They're the sort of things that probably six, seven years ago I wouldn't have given any thought to it. I would have seen that as just being a practice session pre-major with a top player, and focusing on myself" - he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-try-to-play-my-best-tennis-against-novak-djokovic-says-jack-draper-394145" hreflang="en">I will try to play my best tennis against Novak Djokovic, says Jack Draper</a>

He likewise revealed that he's been attempting to pump up his practical preparation ahead of his first appearance in singles at the grasscourt Slam since 2017: "I've had some good practices with top players. I would like to have done more. But I'm also trying to manage the physical side as well, which is very important. I want to go into Wimbledon feeling as fresh and as comfortable as possible when I get out there."&nbsp;

In head-to-head Roger Federer holds a 14-11 edge over Andy Murray, however,&nbsp;the two haven't played each other since 2015. Andy Murray conceded during the conversation that he has botched such freedoms to rehearse with the Swiss, fundamentally because of his health issues and fall in the rankings in the course of the most recent few years.&nbsp;

"I'm probably appreciating those things more," the Brit said. "When I take a step back from that, as a tennis fan, getting to play with Roger Federer two days before Wimbledon, it's really great. I haven't had the opportunity to do that sort of stuff much over the last few years. I enjoyed that."

Andy Murray trusts he can in any case rival the world's best players. Although, the three-time Major hero will be scrutinized directly from his initial match at Wimbledon, as he takes on Nikoloz Basilashvili in the first round.&nbsp;

Andy Murray is careful about the second-round match with the Georgian, and he has been raising the stakes in his training sessions of late. As well as sharing the court with Roger Federer and has additionally polished with Jannik Sinner among other top-rung players.&nbsp;

"The way that I've been performing in my practices with top players, I'm not going out there and getting whacked," Murray said. "I'm competing well with all of the players that I practiced with. That's a really positive thing for me. That's one of the reasons why I'm sure, if my body holds up, that I can do well, can compete with these guys on the biggest stages."

Andy Murray exchanged hits with Roger Federer prior on Saturday, sending online media swirling. Addressing Sky Sports after his training meeting with the Swiss maestro, Andy Murray said that the experience was truly cool and that he liked such minutes more now than he did in his pinnacle years.

Andy Murray exchanged hits with Roger Federer prior on Saturday, sending online media swirling. Addressing Sky Sports after his training meeting with the Swiss maestro, Andy Murray said that the experience was truly cool and that he liked such minutes more now than he did in his pinnacle years. Both Roger Federer and Andy Murray are Wimbledon legends. While Roger Federer has won a record eight titles at SW19, Andy Murray has lifted the trophy twice. "Getting to play with Roger was really cool for me. They're the sort of things that probably six, seven years ago I wouldn't have given any thought to it. I would have seen that as just being a practice session pre-major with a top player, and focusing on myself" - he said. ALSO READ: I will try to play my best tennis against Novak Djokovic, says Jack Draper He likewise revealed that he's been attempting to pump up his practical preparation ahead of his first appearance in singles at the grasscourt Slam since 2017: "I've had some good practices with top players. I would like to have done more. But I'm also trying to manage the physical side as well, which is very important. I want to go into Wimbledon feeling as fresh and as comfortable as possible when I get out there." In head-to-head Roger Federer holds a 14-11 edge over Andy Murray, however, the two haven't played each other since 2015. Andy Murray conceded during the conversation that he has botched such freedoms to rehearse with the Swiss, fundamentally because of his health issues and fall in the rankings in the course of the most recent few years. "I'm probably appreciating those things more," the Brit said. "When I take a step back from that, as a tennis fan, getting to play with Roger Federer two days before Wimbledon, it's really great. I haven't had the opportunity to do that sort of stuff much over the last few years. I enjoyed that." Andy Murray trusts he can in any case rival the world's best players. Although, the three-time Major hero will be scrutinized directly from his initial match at Wimbledon, as he takes on Nikoloz Basilashvili in the first round. Andy Murray is careful about the second-round match with the Georgian, and he has been raising the stakes in his training sessions of late. As well as sharing the court with Roger Federer and has additionally polished with Jannik Sinner among other top-rung players. "The way that I've been performing in my practices with top players, I'm not going out there and getting whacked," Murray said. "I'm competing well with all of the players that I practiced with. That's a really positive thing for me. That's one of the reasons why I'm sure, if my body holds up, that I can do well, can compete with these guys on the biggest stages."

Wimbledon 2021: Getting to practice with Roger Federer was 'really cool', says Andy Murray

Jack Draper is&nbsp;presently ranked&nbsp;250th in the world, however, that number doesn't do equity to his ability. Jack Draper is only 19, yet he is&nbsp;among the top ten highest-positioned British male players, and many accept he will in the long run guarantee the best position in that rundown.&nbsp;

The teen represented Jannik Sinner and Alexander Bublik at the Queen's Club Championships last week. The way that he could outperform Jannik Sinner and Alexander Bublik in tie-breakers - known to be the most high-pressure minutes in tennis - shows that Jack Draper is honored with a lot of mental strength.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic will start his Wimbledon 2021 mission against Jack Draper on Monday. Jack Draper is making his Grand Slam debut at SW19 this year, and the match against Novak Djokovic vows to be fantastic for the youngster.&nbsp;

ASO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-all-you-need-to-know-wimbledon-2021-mens-and-womens-singles-draws-394093" hreflang="en">Tennis: All you need to know Wimbledon 2021 men's and women's singles draws</a>

Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper will open play on Wimbledon's esteemed Center Court, as custom directs that the first match on Center Court should highlight the reigning champ. Jack Draper, who has gotten a trump card for the grasscourt Major, addressed the press on Friday where he communicated his pleasure at confronting World No. 1 on an occasion he considers the greatest stage in tennis.&nbsp;

"I'm very excited to be playing on the biggest stage in tennis against Wimbledon’s defending champion and the World No. 1. Looking forward to getting out there on Monday. I really want to go out on the court and do my best."

The 19-year-old teenager proceeded to recognize the depravity of the task before him, however simultaneously flagged his expectation to set up a decent show against Novak Djokovic.&nbsp;

"It will be a very tough game, but I will try to play my best tennis and create a lot of problems for him," he added.

Jack Draper additionally has a decent forehand pass, which might actually hurt Novak Djokovic in the event that he charges to the net. In any case, the Brit's strike isn't as solid, and Novak Djokovic would hope to misuse that wing.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether he wins or loses, however, playing before his home group at a competition like Wimbledon will unquestionably be a critical clash for Jack Draper.

Jack Draper is presently ranked 250th in the world, however, that number doesn't do equity to his ability. Jack Draper is only 19, yet he is among the top ten highest-positioned British male players, and many accept he will in the long run guarantee the best position in that rundown.

Jack Draper is presently ranked 250th in the world, however, that number doesn't do equity to his ability. Jack Draper is only 19, yet he is among the top ten highest-positioned British male players, and many accept he will in the long run guarantee the best position in that rundown. The teen represented Jannik Sinner and Alexander Bublik at the Queen's Club Championships last week. The way that he could outperform Jannik Sinner and Alexander Bublik in tie-breakers - known to be the most high-pressure minutes in tennis - shows that Jack Draper is honored with a lot of mental strength. Novak Djokovic will start his Wimbledon 2021 mission against Jack Draper on Monday. Jack Draper is making his Grand Slam debut at SW19 this year, and the match against Novak Djokovic vows to be fantastic for the youngster. ASO READ: Tennis: All you need to know Wimbledon 2021 men's and women's singles draws Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper will open play on Wimbledon's esteemed Center Court, as custom directs that the first match on Center Court should highlight the reigning champ. Jack Draper, who has gotten a trump card for the grasscourt Major, addressed the press on Friday where he communicated his pleasure at confronting World No. 1 on an occasion he considers the greatest stage in tennis. "I'm very excited to be playing on the biggest stage in tennis against Wimbledon’s defending champion and the World No. 1. Looking forward to getting out there on Monday. I really want to go out on the court and do my best." The 19-year-old teenager proceeded to recognize the depravity of the task before him, however simultaneously flagged his expectation to set up a decent show against Novak Djokovic. "It will be a very tough game, but I will try to play my best tennis and create a lot of problems for him," he added. Jack Draper additionally has a decent forehand pass, which might actually hurt Novak Djokovic in the event that he charges to the net. In any case, the Brit's strike isn't as solid, and Novak Djokovic would hope to misuse that wing. Regardless of whether he wins or loses, however, playing before his home group at a competition like Wimbledon will unquestionably be a critical clash for Jack Draper.

I will try to play my best tennis against Novak Djokovic, says Jack Draper

Wimbledon returns this year after following a two-year rest attributable in 2020 because of the pandemic, and it's practically similar to we're getting re-familiar with a tragically missing companion. Reigning champ Novak Djokovic and record eight-time victor Roger Federer have been set in inverse parts of the draw.&nbsp;The 2021 Wimbledon Championships is the 134th version of the lofty grass-court Grand Slam. The most recent portion of the competition will run from June 28 to July 11.

Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka obviously didn't track down that re-associate excessively critical, as the two of them chose to avoid the occasion for individual reasons. Dominic Thiem is also sitting out because of injury-related issues while reigning champ Simona Halep is missing because she isn't match-fit at this point.&nbsp;

However, in any case, the Wimbledon men's draw has two out of the three greatest men's stars - Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer - just as a greater part of the Next-gen and Next-cutting edge stars.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-to-play-teenager-jack-draper-as-wimbledon-returns-393949" hreflang="en">Tennis: Novak Djokovic to play teenager Jack Draper as Wimbledon returns</a>

Men's Singles - Novak Djokovic is the men's singles favourite this year too. Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Dominic Thiem, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev, Roger Federer, and Matteo Berrettini complete the best eight seedings.

Women's Singles - Ashleigh Barty keeps on holding the top seeding in the ladies' division. The main eight additionally incorporate Simona Halep, Aryna Sabalenka, Elina Svitolina, Sofia Kenin, Bianca Andreescu, Serena Williams, and Iga Swiatek.

<h3>Men's Draws</h3>

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic will take on Britain's Jack Draper in the first round.

Roger Federer will dispatch his bid for the 21st Slam against France's Adrian Mannarino. The Swiss could meet Pablo Carreno Busta in the fourth round before a potential quarterfinal conflict against second seed Daniil Medvedev.&nbsp;

Daniil Medvedev, looking for his first Slam, faces Jan-Lennard Struff in the opening round. The Russian could meet previous US Open boss Marin Cilic in the third round and possibly Hubert Hurkacz in the fourth.&nbsp;

Third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas opens against American Frances Tiafoe and could confront Roberto Bautista Agut in the quarterfinals, while fourth seed Alexander Zverev is projected to take on Matteo Berrettini in the last eight.&nbsp;

Two-time Wimbledon champion&nbsp;Andy Murray, a special case contestant this time, will bolt horns with 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili in the first round and could meet Canada's Denis Shapovalov in the third round.

<h3>Women's Draws</h3>

On the women's side, favourite Ashleigh Barty will start her journey for a first Wimbledon singles title against Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro. Ashleigh Barty could meet previous US Open hero Bianca Andreescu in the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

Bianca Andreescu opens her mission against Alize Cornet in a rematch of their last-16 experience at Berlin recently.&nbsp;

Serena Williams, seeded seventh this year, will proceed with her mission for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title with a first-round match against Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Williams could then meet Angelique Kerber, who beat her in 2018 last, in the third round, and Ukraine's Elina Svitolina in the last eight.&nbsp;

Ashleigh Barty and Serena Williams are in a similar half and could go head to head in the elimination rounds.&nbsp;

In other first-round women's singles matches, two times Wimbledon victor Petra Kvitova takes on previous US Open hero Sloane Stephens, and recently delegated French Open boss Barbora Krejcikova faces Denmark's rising star Clara Tauson.&nbsp;

In the interim, five-time Wimbledon singles champion Venus Williams, additionally a trump card participant this year, will take on Mihaela Buzarnescu in the first round.

Wimbledon returns this year after following a two-year rest attributable in 2020 because of the pandemic, and it's practically similar to we're getting re-familiar with a tragically missing companion.

Wimbledon returns this year after following a two-year rest attributable in 2020 because of the pandemic, and it's practically similar to we're getting re-familiar with a tragically missing companion. Reigning champ Novak Djokovic and record eight-time victor Roger Federer have been set in inverse parts of the draw. The 2021 Wimbledon Championships is the 134th version of the lofty grass-court Grand Slam. The most recent portion of the competition will run from June 28 to July 11. Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka obviously didn't track down that re-associate excessively critical, as the two of them chose to avoid the occasion for individual reasons. Dominic Thiem is also sitting out because of injury-related issues while reigning champ Simona Halep is missing because she isn't match-fit at this point. However, in any case, the Wimbledon men's draw has two out of the three greatest men's stars - Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer - just as a greater part of the Next-gen and Next-cutting edge stars. ALSO READ: Tennis: Novak Djokovic to play teenager Jack Draper as Wimbledon returns Men's Singles - Novak Djokovic is the men's singles favourite this year too. Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Dominic Thiem, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev, Roger Federer, and Matteo Berrettini complete the best eight seedings. Women's Singles - Ashleigh Barty keeps on holding the top seeding in the ladies' division. The main eight additionally incorporate Simona Halep, Aryna Sabalenka, Elina Svitolina, Sofia Kenin, Bianca Andreescu, Serena Williams, and Iga Swiatek. Men's Draws World No. 1 Novak Djokovic will take on Britain's Jack Draper in the first round. Roger Federer will dispatch his bid for the 21st Slam against France's Adrian Mannarino. The Swiss could meet Pablo Carreno Busta in the fourth round before a potential quarterfinal conflict against second seed Daniil Medvedev. Daniil Medvedev, looking for his first Slam, faces Jan-Lennard Struff in the opening round. The Russian could meet previous US Open boss Marin Cilic in the third round and possibly Hubert Hurkacz in the fourth. Third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas opens against American Frances Tiafoe and could confront Roberto Bautista Agut in the quarterfinals, while fourth seed Alexander Zverev is projected to take on Matteo Berrettini in the last eight. Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray, a special case contestant this time, will bolt horns with 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili in the first round and could meet Canada's Denis Shapovalov in the third round. Women's Draws On the women's side, favourite Ashleigh Barty will start her journey for a first Wimbledon singles title against Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro. Ashleigh Barty could meet previous US Open hero Bianca Andreescu in the quarterfinals. Bianca Andreescu opens her mission against Alize Cornet in a rematch of their last-16 experience at Berlin recently. Serena Williams, seeded seventh this year, will proceed with her mission for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title with a first-round match against Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Williams could then meet Angelique Kerber, who beat her in 2018 last, in the third round, and Ukraine's Elina Svitolina in the last eight. Ashleigh Barty and Serena Williams are in a similar half and could go head to head in the elimination rounds. In other first-round women's singles matches, two times Wimbledon victor Petra Kvitova takes on previous US Open hero Sloane Stephens, and recently delegated French Open boss Barbora Krejcikova faces Denmark's rising star Clara Tauson. In the interim, five-time Wimbledon singles champion Venus Williams, additionally a trump card participant this year, will take on Mihaela Buzarnescu in the first round.

Tennis: All you need to know Wimbledon 2021 men's and women's singles draws

Defending champion Simona Halep pulled out of Wimbledon on Friday after failing to recover from a calf injury she suffered last month, the world number three Romanian said.

In May Halep exited the claycourt event in Rome after suffering a calf injury during her second-round match against Angelique Kerber and was subsequently forced to miss the French Open.

"It is with great sadness that I'm announcing my withdrawal from The Championships as my calf injury has not fully recovered," the 29-year-old, who won the title when Wimbledon was last held in 2019, said on Instagram.

"I gave it everything I had in order to be ready to play Wimbledon and after having such special memories from two years ago, I was excited and honored to step back on these beautiful courts as defending champion.

"Unfortunately, my body didn't cooperate and I'll have to save that feeling for next year."

Halep was denied a chance to defend her title when Wimbledon was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-wrist-injury-forces-dominic-thiem-to-withdraw-from-wimbledon-2021-393848" hreflang="en">Tennis: Wrist injury forces Dominic Thiem to withdraw from Wimbledon 2021</a>

She joins world number two Naomi Osaka in withdrawing from the grasscourt Grand Slam with the Japanese also skipping Wimbledon following her withdrawal from Roland Garros due to mental health issues.

In their absence, Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka will climb up to be the number two seed behind top-ranked Australian Ash Barty with the singles draw for both men and women to be held later on Friday.

"I can honestly say that I'm really down and upset about having to take this decision," Halep added. "This period has been difficult but to miss the last two majors has made it even more challenging mentally and physically.

"We will see what the future holds but I'm hoping it will make me a stronger person and athlete."

Defending champion Simona Halep pulled out of Wimbledon on Friday after failing to recover from a calf injury she suffered last month, the world number three Romanian said.

Defending champion Simona Halep pulled out of Wimbledon on Friday after failing to recover from a calf injury she suffered last month, the world number three Romanian said. In May Halep exited the claycourt event in Rome after suffering a calf injury during her second-round match against Angelique Kerber and was subsequently forced to miss the French Open. "It is with great sadness that I'm announcing my withdrawal from The Championships as my calf injury has not fully recovered," the 29-year-old, who won the title when Wimbledon was last held in 2019, said on Instagram. "I gave it everything I had in order to be ready to play Wimbledon and after having such special memories from two years ago, I was excited and honored to step back on these beautiful courts as defending champion. "Unfortunately, my body didn't cooperate and I'll have to save that feeling for next year." Halep was denied a chance to defend her title when Wimbledon was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Tennis: Wrist injury forces Dominic Thiem to withdraw from Wimbledon 2021 She joins world number two Naomi Osaka in withdrawing from the grasscourt Grand Slam with the Japanese also skipping Wimbledon following her withdrawal from Roland Garros due to mental health issues. In their absence, Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka will climb up to be the number two seed behind top-ranked Australian Ash Barty with the singles draw for both men and women to be held later on Friday. "I can honestly say that I'm really down and upset about having to take this decision," Halep added. "This period has been difficult but to miss the last two majors has made it even more challenging mentally and physically. "We will see what the future holds but I'm hoping it will make me a stronger person and athlete."

Tennis: Defending champion Simona Halep withdraws from Wimbledon due to calf injury

Men's defending Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic will face British teenage wildcard Jack Draper in his opening match but Simona Halep, the women's winner at the last championships in 2019, will not feature after withdrawing on Friday.

World number one Djokovic is halfway to a calendar-year Grand Slam after winning the Australian and French Open titles, taking his overall tally to 19 majors.

Jack Draper, 19, will be making his Grand Slam main draw debut.

Romanian Halep announced earlier on Friday that she would be pulling out of the tournament with a calf injury that prevented her from playing at the French Open.

Serena Williams, who Halep beat to won the title in 2019, will begin her latest quest to claim a record-equalling 24 Grand Slam titles, against Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-defending-champion-simona-halep-withdraws-from-wimbledon-with-calf-injury-393892" hreflang="en">Tennis: Defending champion Simona Halep withdraws from Wimbledon with calf injury</a>

Women's top seed Ash Barty of Australia will face a first-round match against Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro who recently returned to action having recovered from cancer.

Britain's twice champion Andy Murray, taking part in the singles for the first time since 2017 after two hip surgeries, was drawn to play Georgian 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili.

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer, who turns 40 this year, takes on Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in round one.

PILOT EVENT

Wimbledon is returning this year after the 2020 championships were cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The tournament is a government-approved 'pilot event' with a minimum 50% capacity, rising to a full 15,000 attendance for the men's and women's singles finals on Centre Court.

Should Djokovic avoid the first-round shock he could play South Africa's Kevin Anderson in the second round, which would be a repeat of 2018 final.

His prospective semi-final opponent is third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas who he beat in this month's French Open final.

Men's second seed Daniil Medvedev opens against Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff with a potential clash against Croatia's former runner-up Marin Cilic lurking in round three.

Serena Williams has been stuck on 23 Grand Slam titles since winning 2017 Australian Open and her love of Wimbledon's grass courts offers another opportunity to match the record of Australian Margaret Court. Her draw looks reasonably kind too.

The sixth seed's first big test could be Germany's 25th seed Angelique Kerber.

American teenager Coco Gauff, who took Wimbledon by storm when she reached the fourth round as a 15-year-old in 2019, could face Williams in the last 16. Gauff plays British wildcard, Francesca Jones, in the first round.

The standout match of the women's opening round sees twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, seeded 10, up against former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens.

The action begins on Monday.

Men's defending Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic will face British teenage wildcard Jack Draper in his opening match but Simona Halep, the women's winner at the last championships in 2019, will not feature after withdrawing on Friday.

Men's defending Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic will face British teenage wildcard Jack Draper in his opening match but Simona Halep, the women's winner at the last championships in 2019, will not feature after withdrawing on Friday. World number one Djokovic is halfway to a calendar-year Grand Slam after winning the Australian and French Open titles, taking his overall tally to 19 majors. Jack Draper, 19, will be making his Grand Slam main draw debut. Romanian Halep announced earlier on Friday that she would be pulling out of the tournament with a calf injury that prevented her from playing at the French Open. Serena Williams, who Halep beat to won the title in 2019, will begin her latest quest to claim a record-equalling 24 Grand Slam titles, against Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus. ALSO READ: Tennis: Defending champion Simona Halep withdraws from Wimbledon with calf injury Women's top seed Ash Barty of Australia will face a first-round match against Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro who recently returned to action having recovered from cancer. Britain's twice champion Andy Murray, taking part in the singles for the first time since 2017 after two hip surgeries, was drawn to play Georgian 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili. Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer, who turns 40 this year, takes on Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in round one. PILOT EVENT Wimbledon is returning this year after the 2020 championships were cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The tournament is a government-approved 'pilot event' with a minimum 50% capacity, rising to a full 15,000 attendance for the men's and women's singles finals on Centre Court. Should Djokovic avoid the first-round shock he could play South Africa's Kevin Anderson in the second round, which would be a repeat of 2018 final. His prospective semi-final opponent is third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas who he beat in this month's French Open final. Men's second seed Daniil Medvedev opens against Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff with a potential clash against Croatia's former runner-up Marin Cilic lurking in round three. Serena Williams has been stuck on 23 Grand Slam titles since winning 2017 Australian Open and her love of Wimbledon's grass courts offers another opportunity to match the record of Australian Margaret Court. Her draw looks reasonably kind too. The sixth seed's first big test could be Germany's 25th seed Angelique Kerber. American teenager Coco Gauff, who took Wimbledon by storm when she reached the fourth round as a 15-year-old in 2019, could face Williams in the last 16. Gauff plays British wildcard, Francesca Jones, in the first round. The standout match of the women's opening round sees twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, seeded 10, up against former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens. The action begins on Monday.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic to play teenager Jack Draper as Wimbledon returns

For Roger Federer, Wimbledon 2021 will not only be the last Grand Slam he contests before celebrating the "big four-oh" but also a chance to put behind him the memory of his 2019 heartbreak at the grasscourt major.

The Swiss has held aloft the gilded Challenge Cup a record eight times. But equally memorably, he lost a chance to win a ninth title in 2019 when he astonishingly failed to convert two championship points against Novak Djokovic.

That near-miss prevented him from winning a record-extending 21st Grand Slam title, and since then a combination of injuries and the COVID-19 pandemic have conspired to curtail his on-court action.

When Wimbledon's favorite son walks out on the manicured lawns next week, he will be hoping his surgically repaired knees can deal with the rigors of winning seven best-of-five-set matches.

Exactly how Federer, who turns 40 in August, will be able to cope with such demands on his body is something that even he does not know because, since that fifth-set tiebreak loss to Djokovic in July 2019, he has played only 34 matches, including just eight since February 2020.

Before injuries started disrupting his career in 2016, Federer regularly contested more than 70 matches a year.

"It’s a huge challenge for me. Everybody who has multiple surgeries or a tough surgery knows what I’m talking about,” said Federer, who had left knee surgery in 2016 on a torn meniscus before going under the knife twice in 2020 on his right knee.

"Things don’t come easy. You second-guess yourself... and that’s sometimes the biggest worry: the worry of pain or the worry of how you’re going to feel the next day or when you wake up.

"All this stuff, it takes a little bit of a toll on you sometimes."

His lack of match-fitness will be severely tested not only by the Djokovics of this world -- who incidentally will be eager to flatten anyone who tries to stop him from joining Federer and Rafael Nadal on 20 majors -- but also by an army of younger and fitter players.

The likes of 20-somethings Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev no longer fear facing Federer and have beaten the Swiss great on multiple occasions.

Federer has made no secret that at this stage of his career, anything he does or does not do on a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;court is done with the sole purpose of making sure he is in the best shape possible to make another title run at Wimbledon.

With that in mind, he quit the French Open after winning his third-round match. It was a move that annoyed many critics who felt that if anyone else had pulled out to protect their body, they would have been crucified for using another Grand Slam tournament as a dress rehearsal.

Others rushed to defend the world number eight.

"Roger has earned the right to do anything he wants in&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;right now,” American great Chris Evert said.

"Wimbledon is his dream, that’s the golden tournament for him. He should be excused for any withdrawal he has."

Fellow ESPN analyst John McEnroe said the bigger concern was that: "He played a four-hour match, won that, then defaulted. It's hard to say how he was feeling that next day if he could have gone on?"

Fast forward a few days and a second-round defeat on the grass in Halle, the earliest exit Federer has suffered in 18 appearances at the Wimbledon-warm-up event he has won 10 times, was a further setback caused by what the Swiss described as a "negative attitude".

However, with his focus clearly on equalling Martina Navratilova's overall record of nine Wimbledon titles, as Eurosport pundit Mats Wilander put it: "He'll be as fired up as the Rolling Stones playing at Wembley."

For Roger Federer, Wimbledon 2021 will not only be the last Grand Slam he contests before celebrating the "big four-oh" but also a chance to put behind him the memory of his 2019 heartbreak at the grasscourt major.

For Roger Federer, Wimbledon 2021 will not only be the last Grand Slam he contests before celebrating the "big four-oh" but also a chance to put behind him the memory of his 2019 heartbreak at the grasscourt major. The Swiss has held aloft the gilded Challenge Cup a record eight times. But equally memorably, he lost a chance to win a ninth title in 2019 when he astonishingly failed to convert two championship points against Novak Djokovic. That near-miss prevented him from winning a record-extending 21st Grand Slam title, and since then a combination of injuries and the COVID-19 pandemic have conspired to curtail his on-court action. When Wimbledon's favorite son walks out on the manicured lawns next week, he will be hoping his surgically repaired knees can deal with the rigors of winning seven best-of-five-set matches. Exactly how Federer, who turns 40 in August, will be able to cope with such demands on his body is something that even he does not know because, since that fifth-set tiebreak loss to Djokovic in July 2019, he has played only 34 matches, including just eight since February 2020. Before injuries started disrupting his career in 2016, Federer regularly contested more than 70 matches a year. "It’s a huge challenge for me. Everybody who has multiple surgeries or a tough surgery knows what I’m talking about,” said Federer, who had left knee surgery in 2016 on a torn meniscus before going under the knife twice in 2020 on his right knee. "Things don’t come easy. You second-guess yourself... and that’s sometimes the biggest worry: the worry of pain or the worry of how you’re going to feel the next day or when you wake up. "All this stuff, it takes a little bit of a toll on you sometimes." His lack of match-fitness will be severely tested not only by the Djokovics of this world -- who incidentally will be eager to flatten anyone who tries to stop him from joining Federer and Rafael Nadal on 20 majors -- but also by an army of younger and fitter players. The likes of 20-somethings Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev no longer fear facing Federer and have beaten the Swiss great on multiple occasions. Federer has made no secret that at this stage of his career, anything he does or does not do on a tennis court is done with the sole purpose of making sure he is in the best shape possible to make another title run at Wimbledon. With that in mind, he quit the French Open after winning his third-round match. It was a move that annoyed many critics who felt that if anyone else had pulled out to protect their body, they would have been crucified for using another Grand Slam tournament as a dress rehearsal. Others rushed to defend the world number eight. "Roger has earned the right to do anything he wants in tennis right now,” American great Chris Evert said. "Wimbledon is his dream, that’s the golden tournament for him. He should be excused for any withdrawal he has." Fellow ESPN analyst John McEnroe said the bigger concern was that: "He played a four-hour match, won that, then defaulted. It's hard to say how he was feeling that next day if he could have gone on?" Fast forward a few days and a second-round defeat on the grass in Halle, the earliest exit Federer has suffered in 18 appearances at the Wimbledon-warm-up event he has won 10 times, was a further setback caused by what the Swiss described as a "negative attitude". However, with his focus clearly on equalling Martina Navratilova's overall record of nine Wimbledon titles, as Eurosport pundit Mats Wilander put it: "He'll be as fired up as the Rolling Stones playing at Wembley."

Tennis: All roads lead to Wimbledon for Roger Federer

Dominic Thiem as of late took to Twitter to affirm that he has withdrawn from the 2021 Wimbledon Championships. The Austrian, who hurt his right wrist during his Mallorca second-round experience against Adrian Mannarino, unveiled that his physical issue is excessively genuine for him to play any tennis throughout the following, not many weeks.&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem understood the degree of the issue solely after visiting Dr Angel Ruiz Cotorro in Barcelona. Clinical assessments uncovered that he pulled the ligaments on the ulnar side of his right wrist, putting him down and out for in any event five weeks.&nbsp;

"After being forced to retire from his opening match at the Mallorca Open on Tuesday due to an injury to his right wrist, Dominic Thiem traveled to Barcelona and underwent further medical examinations," the statement on Thiem's Twitter handle read. "Tests found that there is a 'detachment of the posterior sheath of the ulnar side of the right wrist, an injury that will not allow him to compete in the circuit for several weeks."

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The assertion further clarified that the following five weeks will see Dominic Thiem wearing a brace over his right wrist. It is solely after that period that he can start the restoration cycle.&nbsp;

"Thiem will wear a wrist splint for 5 weeks before beginning a progressive process of specific, functional rehabilitation to regain mobility as well as muscle strength in his wrist and ultimately return to training on the court," the assertion proceeded.&nbsp;

Recently, Dominic Thiem had affirmed his investment at the ATP occasions in Hamburg, Gstaad, and Kitzbuhel. Nonetheless, the Austrian will currently need to miss that load of occasions because of the genuine idea of his physical issue.&nbsp;

It is additionally hazy whether Dominic Thiem will be back on schedule during the current year's North American hardcourt swing, which is planned to start off in August. He would need to get in some match practice before he begins his title protection at the US Open, however right now things are glancing pretty unpredictable in such a manner.&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem's assertion additionally uncovered that Dr. Holy messenger Ruiz Cotorro and his clinical group, who has additionally worked with 20-time Major champ Rafael Nadal before, will regulate his recuperation. Thiem will go through a couple of more MRIs look over the following not many days to decide the specific treatment measure.&nbsp;

"Dr. Angel Ruiz Cotorro and his medical team will supervise the progress of the injury, as Thiem will undergo further MRI scans and tests, and will decide when the player is fit to return to competition," the assertion read.&nbsp;

Dominic Thiem hopes to be back on the court soon, and he declared in his explanation that he expects to give it his best shot to make an effective rebound to the visit.&nbsp;

"I'm going to do everything the doctors say in order to recover as quickly as possible," Thiem said. "They've informed me that I might be out for several weeks, but I will do my best to be back on the court soon."

Dominic Thiem as of late took to Twitter to affirm that he has withdrawn from the 2021 Wimbledon Championships. The Austrian, who hurt his right wrist during his Mallorca second-round experience against Adrian Mannarino, unveiled that his physical issue is excessively genuine for him to play any tennis throughout the following, not many weeks.

Dominic Thiem as of late took to Twitter to affirm that he has withdrawn from the 2021 Wimbledon Championships. The Austrian, who hurt his right wrist during his Mallorca second-round experience against Adrian Mannarino, unveiled that his physical issue is excessively genuine for him to play any tennis throughout the following, not many weeks. Dominic Thiem understood the degree of the issue solely after visiting Dr Angel Ruiz Cotorro in Barcelona. Clinical assessments uncovered that he pulled the ligaments on the ulnar side of his right wrist, putting him down and out for in any event five weeks. "After being forced to retire from his opening match at the Mallorca Open on Tuesday due to an injury to his right wrist, Dominic Thiem traveled to Barcelona and underwent further medical examinations," the statement on Thiem's Twitter handle read. "Tests found that there is a 'detachment of the posterior sheath of the ulnar side of the right wrist, an injury that will not allow him to compete in the circuit for several weeks." pic.twitter.com/KOz6uzVDl0 — Dominic Thiem (@ThiemDomi) June 24, 2021 × The assertion further clarified that the following five weeks will see Dominic Thiem wearing a brace over his right wrist. It is solely after that period that he can start the restoration cycle. "Thiem will wear a wrist splint for 5 weeks before beginning a progressive process of specific, functional rehabilitation to regain mobility as well as muscle strength in his wrist and ultimately return to training on the court," the assertion proceeded. Recently, Dominic Thiem had affirmed his investment at the ATP occasions in Hamburg, Gstaad, and Kitzbuhel. Nonetheless, the Austrian will currently need to miss that load of occasions because of the genuine idea of his physical issue. It is additionally hazy whether Dominic Thiem will be back on schedule during the current year's North American hardcourt swing, which is planned to start off in August. He would need to get in some match practice before he begins his title protection at the US Open, however right now things are glancing pretty unpredictable in such a manner. Dominic Thiem's assertion additionally uncovered that Dr. Holy messenger Ruiz Cotorro and his clinical group, who has additionally worked with 20-time Major champ Rafael Nadal before, will regulate his recuperation. Thiem will go through a couple of more MRIs look over the following not many days to decide the specific treatment measure. "Dr. Angel Ruiz Cotorro and his medical team will supervise the progress of the injury, as Thiem will undergo further MRI scans and tests, and will decide when the player is fit to return to competition," the assertion read. Dominic Thiem hopes to be back on the court soon, and he declared in his explanation that he expects to give it his best shot to make an effective rebound to the visit. "I'm going to do everything the doctors say in order to recover as quickly as possible," Thiem said. "They've informed me that I might be out for several weeks, but I will do my best to be back on the court soon."

Tennis: Wrist injury forces Dominic Thiem to withdraw from Wimbledon 2021

Novak Djokovic is targeting a record-equalling 20th major and sixth Wimbledon title from next week, edging him closer to becoming only the third man to complete a calendar Grand Slam.

The world number one has already won a ninth Australian Open and second French Open this season.

That has put him halfway to emulating Don Budge (1937) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) in sweeping all four majors in the same year.

It is a feat that even his closest rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have never managed and will probably never achieve.

"Everything is possible," said 34-year-old Djokovic after winning the French Open earlier this month when asked if the Golden Slam of all four majors and Olympic Games gold was a realistic target.

"I've achieved some things that a lot of people thought it would be not possible for me to achieve."

Djokovic memorably captured a fifth Wimbledon in 2019, saving two championship points to defeat Federer in the longest ever final at the All England Club at four hours and 57 minutes.

He was deprived of defending his title in 2020 when Wimbledon was cancelled due to the pandemic.

However, Djokovic has been at this juncture before, winning in Australia and Paris in 2016 but coming up short at the Rio Olympics, Wimbledon and the US Open later in the year.

Djokovic has won seven of the last 11 Slams as he ramps up his assault on the record of 20 majors held jointly by Federer and Nadal.

Nadal, the Wimbledon champion in 2008 and 2010, has already withdrawn from this year's tournament, still scarred by the bruising loss to the Serb in the French Open semi-finals.

<h2>- 'Huge challenge' -</h2>

Eight-time winner Federer, meanwhile, will be 40 in August and won just one match on grass at Halle in the build-up to Wimbledon.

Federer, who underwent two knee surgeries in 2020, won the last of his eight Wimbledons in 2017 and the most recent of his 20 majors in Australia in 2018.

The Swiss star has lost three finals to Djokovic at the All England Club in 2014, 2015 and the epic 2019 clash.&nbsp;

"It's a huge challenge for me," said Federer of his comeback.

"Things don't come simple, they don't come easy."

The rest of the current top 10 have endured so far mediocre Wimbledon records.

Only 33-year-old Roberto Bautista Agut, a surprise semi-finalist two years ago, has got beyond the last 16.

Daniil Medvedev has a best of the third round, while Dominic Thiem, who made the fourth round in 2017, crashed at the first hurdle in 2018 and 2019.

Alexander Zverev had a best last 16 run in 2017 but was also a first-round loser two years ago while Andrey Rublev has yet to get past the second round.

Of the remainder of the top 10, French Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas and Matteo Berrettini are Djokovic's most likely threats.

Tsitsipas made the last 16 in 2018 before exiting in the first round two years ago.

The Greek, however, is one of the form players of 2021, winning titles in Monte Carlo and Lyon before forcing Djokovic to recover from two sets down in the Roland Garros final.

Queen's Club champion Matteo Berrettini is also a dangerman for Djokovic.

The Italian made the last 16 in 2019 where it took Federer to stop his progress.

He was also the first man to win the Queen's title on debut since Boris Becker in 1985 -- the German went on to win a maiden Wimbledon just weeks later.

Andy Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, will hope to ride a national wave of emotion at least into the second week.

But the injury-plagued Briton, a former world number one, is down at 119 in the rankings and has won just two matches all season.

Novak Djokovic is targeting a record-equalling 20th major and sixth Wimbledon title from next week, edging him closer to becoming only the third man to complete a calendar Grand Slam.

Novak Djokovic is targeting a record-equalling 20th major and sixth Wimbledon title from next week, edging him closer to becoming only the third man to complete a calendar Grand Slam. The world number one has already won a ninth Australian Open and second French Open this season. That has put him halfway to emulating Don Budge (1937) and Rod Laver (1962 and 1969) in sweeping all four majors in the same year. It is a feat that even his closest rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have never managed and will probably never achieve. "Everything is possible," said 34-year-old Djokovic after winning the French Open earlier this month when asked if the Golden Slam of all four majors and Olympic Games gold was a realistic target. "I've achieved some things that a lot of people thought it would be not possible for me to achieve." Djokovic memorably captured a fifth Wimbledon in 2019, saving two championship points to defeat Federer in the longest ever final at the All England Club at four hours and 57 minutes. He was deprived of defending his title in 2020 when Wimbledon was cancelled due to the pandemic. However, Djokovic has been at this juncture before, winning in Australia and Paris in 2016 but coming up short at the Rio Olympics, Wimbledon and the US Open later in the year. Djokovic has won seven of the last 11 Slams as he ramps up his assault on the record of 20 majors held jointly by Federer and Nadal. Nadal, the Wimbledon champion in 2008 and 2010, has already withdrawn from this year's tournament, still scarred by the bruising loss to the Serb in the French Open semi-finals. - 'Huge challenge' - Eight-time winner Federer, meanwhile, will be 40 in August and won just one match on grass at Halle in the build-up to Wimbledon. Federer, who underwent two knee surgeries in 2020, won the last of his eight Wimbledons in 2017 and the most recent of his 20 majors in Australia in 2018. The Swiss star has lost three finals to Djokovic at the All England Club in 2014, 2015 and the epic 2019 clash. "It's a huge challenge for me," said Federer of his comeback. "Things don't come simple, they don't come easy." The rest of the current top 10 have endured so far mediocre Wimbledon records. Only 33-year-old Roberto Bautista Agut, a surprise semi-finalist two years ago, has got beyond the last 16. Daniil Medvedev has a best of the third round, while Dominic Thiem, who made the fourth round in 2017, crashed at the first hurdle in 2018 and 2019. Alexander Zverev had a best last 16 run in 2017 but was also a first-round loser two years ago while Andrey Rublev has yet to get past the second round. Of the remainder of the top 10, French Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas and Matteo Berrettini are Djokovic's most likely threats. Tsitsipas made the last 16 in 2018 before exiting in the first round two years ago. The Greek, however, is one of the form players of 2021, winning titles in Monte Carlo and Lyon before forcing Djokovic to recover from two sets down in the Roland Garros final. Queen's Club champion Matteo Berrettini is also a dangerman for Djokovic. The Italian made the last 16 in 2019 where it took Federer to stop his progress. He was also the first man to win the Queen's title on debut since Boris Becker in 1985 -- the German went on to win a maiden Wimbledon just weeks later. Andy Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, will hope to ride a national wave of emotion at least into the second week. But the injury-plagued Briton, a former world number one, is down at 119 in the rankings and has won just two matches all season.

Tennis: Djokovic ready to be first among equals at Wimbledon

Milos&nbsp;Raonic&nbsp;has withdrawn from the&nbsp;Wimbledon&nbsp;championships this month following a setback in his recovery from a&nbsp;calf&nbsp;injury, the 2016 runner-up said.

The former world number three last competed in the Miami Open Masters 1000 tournament in March where he was beaten by Hubert Hurkacz in the last 16 before missing the entire claycourt season, including the French Open.

"I wanted to share that I am incredibly sad and hurt that I won't be ready to compete at&nbsp;Wimbledon&nbsp;this year," world number 18&nbsp;Raonic&nbsp;said in an Instagram post late on Saturday.

Raonic&nbsp;said that he was targeting a return to action at the grasscourt major but was unable to fully shake off the problem in time.

"I have been working hard to heal it but had a minor setback,"&nbsp;Raonic&nbsp;said.

"Therefore I won't be ready for&nbsp;Wimbledon. I will be working hard to get back as soon as possible."

Former winner and 20-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal as well as the women's world number two Naomi Osaka have also pulled&nbsp;out&nbsp;of the tournament.

Wimbledon&nbsp;was the only Grand Slam to be cancelled in 2020&nbsp;due&nbsp;to the COVID-19 pandemic and will return in its usual slot this year with the main draw starting on June 28.

Milos Raonic has withdrawn from the Wimbledon championships this month following a setback in his recovery from a calf injury, the 2016 runner-up said. The former world number three last competed in the Miami Open Masters 1000 tournament in March where he was beaten by Hubert Hurkacz in the last 16 before missing the entire claycourt season, including the French Open.

Milos Raonic has withdrawn from the Wimbledon championships this month following a setback in his recovery from a calf injury, the 2016 runner-up said. The former world number three last competed in the Miami Open Masters 1000 tournament in March where he was beaten by Hubert Hurkacz in the last 16 before missing the entire claycourt season, including the French Open. "I wanted to share that I am incredibly sad and hurt that I won't be ready to compete at Wimbledon this year," world number 18 Raonic said in an Instagram post late on Saturday. Raonic said that he was targeting a return to action at the grasscourt major but was unable to fully shake off the problem in time. "I have been working hard to heal it but had a minor setback," Raonic said. "Therefore I won't be ready for Wimbledon. I will be working hard to get back as soon as possible." Former winner and 20-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal as well as the women's world number two Naomi Osaka have also pulled out of the tournament. Wimbledon was the only Grand Slam to be cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will return in its usual slot this year with the main draw starting on June 28.

Tennis-Raonic pulls out of Wimbledon due to calf injury

Rafael Nadal took to Twitter to reveal&nbsp;that he is pulling out from the upcoming Wimbledon Championships and Tokyo Olympics. Nadal referred to the need to "pay attention to his body" after a thorough claycourt season as the explanation for his withdrawal.&nbsp;

Nadal said he had talked with his group before making the decision. The 35-year-old added that he was hoping to draw out his profession at the top, which recommends he will be significantly more specific with his timetable over the course of the following, not many years.&nbsp;

"Hi all, I have decided not to participate at this year’s Championships at Wimbledon and the Olympic Games in Tokyo," Nadal wrote. "It’s never an easy decision to take but after listening to my body and discuss it with my team I understand that it is the right decision" - he said

"The goal is to prolong my career and continue to do what makes me happy, that is to compete at the highest level and keep fighting for those professional and personal goals at the maximum level of competition" -&nbsp;he added.

Rafael Nadal is falling off a difficult clay season, where he played every one of the three Masters occasions notwithstanding Roland Garros and Barcelona. The Spaniard won the titles in Rome and Barcelona, however was packaged out of the French Open by inevitable hero Novak Djokovic.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal brought up how the little hole between Roland Garros and Wimbledon - only fourteen days - assumed a part in his choice. He explicitly featured the way that he expected to recuperate from his works on mud throughout the most recent few months.&nbsp;

"The fact that there have only been two weeks between RG and Wimbledon didn’t make it easier on my body to recuperate after the always demanding claycourt season," Nadal said. "They have been two months of great effort and the decision I take is focused on looking at the mid and long term" -&nbsp;he said.

"Sport prevention of any kind of excess in my body is a very important factor at this stage of my career in order to try to keep fighting for the highest level of competition and titles"&nbsp;- he added.

Rafael Nadal likewise communicated his failure at not having the option to go to the Tokyo Olympics, saving a word for his Japanese fans specifically. The Spaniard, who has won two gold awards at the Games before, guaranteed that the occasion implied a ton to him. He finished strong, offering his thanks for having been deliberated with the honor of conveying the Spanish banner at the 2016 Rio Olympics.&nbsp;

"The Olympic Games always meant a lot and they were always a priority as a sports person, I found the spirit that every sportsperson in the world wants to live," Nadal wrote. "I personally had the chance to live 3 of them and had the honor to be the flag bearer for my country."

Rafael Nadal took to Twitter to reveal that he is pulling out from the upcoming Wimbledon Championships and Tokyo Olympics. Nadal referred to the need to "pay attention to his body" after a thorough claycourt season as the explanation for his withdrawal.

Rafael Nadal took to Twitter to reveal that he is pulling out from the upcoming Wimbledon Championships and Tokyo Olympics. Nadal referred to the need to "pay attention to his body" after a thorough claycourt season as the explanation for his withdrawal. Nadal said he had talked with his group before making the decision. The 35-year-old added that he was hoping to draw out his profession at the top, which recommends he will be significantly more specific with his timetable over the course of the following, not many years. "Hi all, I have decided not to participate at this year’s Championships at Wimbledon and the Olympic Games in Tokyo," Nadal wrote. "It’s never an easy decision to take but after listening to my body and discuss it with my team I understand that it is the right decision" - he said "The goal is to prolong my career and continue to do what makes me happy, that is to compete at the highest level and keep fighting for those professional and personal goals at the maximum level of competition" - he added. Rafael Nadal is falling off a difficult clay season, where he played every one of the three Masters occasions notwithstanding Roland Garros and Barcelona. The Spaniard won the titles in Rome and Barcelona, however was packaged out of the French Open by inevitable hero Novak Djokovic. Rafael Nadal brought up how the little hole between Roland Garros and Wimbledon - only fourteen days - assumed a part in his choice. He explicitly featured the way that he expected to recuperate from his works on mud throughout the most recent few months. "The fact that there have only been two weeks between RG and Wimbledon didn’t make it easier on my body to recuperate after the always demanding claycourt season," Nadal said. "They have been two months of great effort and the decision I take is focused on looking at the mid and long term" - he said. "Sport prevention of any kind of excess in my body is a very important factor at this stage of my career in order to try to keep fighting for the highest level of competition and titles" - he added. Rafael Nadal likewise communicated his failure at not having the option to go to the Tokyo Olympics, saving a word for his Japanese fans specifically. The Spaniard, who has won two gold awards at the Games before, guaranteed that the occasion implied a ton to him. He finished strong, offering his thanks for having been deliberated with the honor of conveying the Spanish banner at the 2016 Rio Olympics. "The Olympic Games always meant a lot and they were always a priority as a sports person, I found the spirit that every sportsperson in the world wants to live," Nadal wrote. "I personally had the chance to live 3 of them and had the honor to be the flag bearer for my country."

'Never An Easy Decision': Rafael Nadal pulls out of Tokyo Olympics and Wimbledon to prolong career

Roger Federer played his first match on grass in almost two years when he took on Ilya Ivashka in the first round of the 2021 Noventi Open. Roger Federer was corroded toward the beginning and furthermore gave a few indications of nerves, however ultimately came through 7-6 (4), 7-5.&nbsp;

After his success over the Belarusian, Roger Federer emphasized his long-standing craving to excel at Wimbledon. As indicated by World No. 8, even an early loss at Halle wouldn't hurt him a lot as it would permit him one more week of training.&nbsp;

"We're all in the same boat. Roger Federer said. Everyone else hasn't played on the grass either for the last couple of years. My goals for Wimbledon are clearly quite high. But if it doesn't work out in Halle, I have another week's practice" - he said.

It was a lethargic beginning for Roger Federer in Halle, as Ilya Ivashka several breaks focuses on the Swiss' subsequent assistance round of the match. In any case, Federer saved those for certain opportune first serves and didn't confront any more break focuses the remainder of the way.&nbsp;

In his post-match presser, Roger Federer additionally communicated his joy at playing a close-perfect sudden death round, which he won 7-4. As indicated by him, winning the tie-breaker round assisted him with discovering some self-control and mitigate his nerves.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/outrageous-czech-republics-patrik-schick-scores-goal-of-euro-2020-contender-against-scotland-watch-391449" hreflang="en">Outrageous! Czech Republic's Patrik Schick scores goal of Euro 2020 contender against Scotland - Watch</a>

"I had a tough moment in the first set when he had a breakpoint so that was crucial to get out of those and then I played a really good tiebreaker which I was happy about. I think as the match went on I started to create more opportunities and started to calm my nerves a little bit; overall I think I served very well" - he added.

Roger Federer likewise asserted there is some opportunity to get better in his game, and that his back - known to foster infrequent distress on grass - felt fine. World No. 8 called attention to that at this stage, it is essential to construct match fitness and test his knees.&nbsp;

"Clearly it can always be a little better but I'm happy and excited that I was able to get through the first one. The back is good, I feel fine from that standpoint. It's just really the legs and the match fitness that I'm looking forward to and getting through breakers" - he asserted.

After his success over Ilya Ivashka, he communicated his failure at the absence of fans yet asserted he was satisfied to stamp his re-visitation of grass with a success.&nbsp;

"I love playing here. The very little crowd is a bit of a disappointment for all of us but at the same time I'm excited to be back on the green grass and getting a win is always very nice" - he concluded.

Roger Federer played his first match on grass in almost two years when he took on Ilya Ivashka in the first round of the 2021 Noventi Open. Roger Federer was corroded toward the beginning and furthermore gave a few indications of nerves, however ultimately came through 7-6 (4), 7-5.

Roger Federer played his first match on grass in almost two years when he took on Ilya Ivashka in the first round of the 2021 Noventi Open. Roger Federer was corroded toward the beginning and furthermore gave a few indications of nerves, however ultimately came through 7-6 (4), 7-5. After his success over the Belarusian, Roger Federer emphasized his long-standing craving to excel at Wimbledon. As indicated by World No. 8, even an early loss at Halle wouldn't hurt him a lot as it would permit him one more week of training. "We're all in the same boat. Roger Federer said. Everyone else hasn't played on the grass either for the last couple of years. My goals for Wimbledon are clearly quite high. But if it doesn't work out in Halle, I have another week's practice" - he said. It was a lethargic beginning for Roger Federer in Halle, as Ilya Ivashka several breaks focuses on the Swiss' subsequent assistance round of the match. In any case, Federer saved those for certain opportune first serves and didn't confront any more break focuses the remainder of the way. In his post-match presser, Roger Federer additionally communicated his joy at playing a close-perfect sudden death round, which he won 7-4. As indicated by him, winning the tie-breaker round assisted him with discovering some self-control and mitigate his nerves. ALSO READ: Outrageous! Czech Republic's Patrik Schick scores goal of Euro 2020 contender against Scotland - Watch "I had a tough moment in the first set when he had a breakpoint so that was crucial to get out of those and then I played a really good tiebreaker which I was happy about. I think as the match went on I started to create more opportunities and started to calm my nerves a little bit; overall I think I served very well" - he added. Roger Federer likewise asserted there is some opportunity to get better in his game, and that his back - known to foster infrequent distress on grass - felt fine. World No. 8 called attention to that at this stage, it is essential to construct match fitness and test his knees. "Clearly it can always be a little better but I'm happy and excited that I was able to get through the first one. The back is good, I feel fine from that standpoint. It's just really the legs and the match fitness that I'm looking forward to and getting through breakers" - he asserted. After his success over Ilya Ivashka, he communicated his failure at the absence of fans yet asserted he was satisfied to stamp his re-visitation of grass with a success. "I love playing here. The very little crowd is a bit of a disappointment for all of us but at the same time I'm excited to be back on the green grass and getting a win is always very nice" - he concluded.

Tennis: My goals for Wimbledon are clearly quite high: Roger Federer after winning Halle opener

Stefanos Tsitsipas pulled out of the Wimbledon warm-up event in Halle, Germany, on Monday because of personal reasons after surrendering a two-set lead in his defeat against Novak Djokovic in Sundays French Open final.

Tsitsipas outplayed the Serbian world number one for the first two sets at Roland Garros, but his maiden Grand Slam final ended in defeat, ultimately losing 7-6(6) 6-2 3-6 2-6 4-6 in a grueling contest over four hours and 11 minutes.

Greece's Tsitsipas accepted a wild card into the ATP 500 grasscourt event in Halle and was also scheduled to play doubles with his younger brother Petros.

"He will be replaced by lucky loser Yannick Hanfmann in the singles draw," the ATP said.

The 22-year-old revealed in an emotional social media post on Monday that he had learned of the death of his paternal grandmother only five minutes before the French Open final.

"Five minutes before entering the court my very beloved grandmother lost her battle for life," Tsitsipas wrote on Instagram. "A wise woman whose faith in life, and willingness to give and provide can't be compared to any other human being that I have ever met.

"It's important to have more people like her in this world. Because people like her make you come alive. They make you dream."

Tsitsipas also put Sunday's defeat in perspective.

"Life isn't about winning or losing. It's about enjoying every single moment in life whether that's alone or with others," he wrote.

"(It's about) living a meaningful life without misery and abjection. Lifting trophies and celebrating wins is something, but not everything."

Stefanos Tsitsipas pulled out of the Wimbledon warm-up event in Halle, Germany, on Monday because of personal reasons after surrendering a two-set lead in his defeat against Novak Djokovic in Sundays French Open final.

Stefanos Tsitsipas pulled out of the Wimbledon warm-up event in Halle, Germany, on Monday because of personal reasons after surrendering a two-set lead in his defeat against Novak Djokovic in Sundays French Open final. Tsitsipas outplayed the Serbian world number one for the first two sets at Roland Garros, but his maiden Grand Slam final ended in defeat, ultimately losing 7-6(6) 6-2 3-6 2-6 4-6 in a grueling contest over four hours and 11 minutes. Greece's Tsitsipas accepted a wild card into the ATP 500 grasscourt event in Halle and was also scheduled to play doubles with his younger brother Petros. "He will be replaced by lucky loser Yannick Hanfmann in the singles draw," the ATP said. The 22-year-old revealed in an emotional social media post on Monday that he had learned of the death of his paternal grandmother only five minutes before the French Open final. "Five minutes before entering the court my very beloved grandmother lost her battle for life," Tsitsipas wrote on Instagram. "A wise woman whose faith in life, and willingness to give and provide can't be compared to any other human being that I have ever met. "It's important to have more people like her in this world. Because people like her make you come alive. They make you dream." Tsitsipas also put Sunday's defeat in perspective. "Life isn't about winning or losing. It's about enjoying every single moment in life whether that's alone or with others," he wrote. "(It's about) living a meaningful life without misery and abjection. Lifting trophies and celebrating wins is something, but not everything."

Tennis: Stefanos Tsitsipas pulls out of Wimbledon warm-up in Halle

Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week's Berlin WTA 5000 grasscourt tournament on Monday, raising doubts about the four-times Grand Slam champion's participation at Wimbledon later this month.

The decision comes after Japanese world number two Osaka pulled out of the French Open last week on mental health grounds.

"We have received notification Naomi Osaka cannot start in Berlin. After consulting her management, she will take a break," Berlin event organisers said in a statement ahead of the tournament which begins on June 14.

Osaka has not revealed when she plans to play next, casting doubt on her participation at Wimbledon, which starts on June 28, and the Tokyo Olympics next month.

The 23-year-old released a short social media statement on Saturday to thank her fans for their support over her decision to withdraw from the French Open following a dispute over her refusal to attend press conferences.

Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week's Berlin WTA 5000 grasscourt tournament on Monday, raising doubts about the four-times Grand Slam champion's participation at Wimbledon later this month.

Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week's Berlin WTA 5000 grasscourt tournament on Monday, raising doubts about the four-times Grand Slam champion's participation at Wimbledon later this month. The decision comes after Japanese world number two Osaka pulled out of the French Open last week on mental health grounds. "We have received notification Naomi Osaka cannot start in Berlin. After consulting her management, she will take a break," Berlin event organisers said in a statement ahead of the tournament which begins on June 14. Osaka has not revealed when she plans to play next, casting doubt on her participation at Wimbledon, which starts on June 28, and the Tokyo Olympics next month. The 23-year-old released a short social media statement on Saturday to thank her fans for their support over her decision to withdraw from the French Open following a dispute over her refusal to attend press conferences.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka withdraws from pre-Wimbledon event in Berlin

Three-times Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka has pulled out of Wimbledon due to a foot injury that also ruled him out of the ongoing French Open, the governing body of men's&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;(ATP) has said.

Former world number three Wawrinka underwent an operation on his left foot earlier this year. The 36-year-old Swiss has not played on the ATP Tour since his opening round defeat by Lloyd Harris at the Qatar Open in March.

The Wimbledon competition starts on June 28.

Wawrinka has competed at the All England Club on 15 occasions, reaching the quarter-finals in 2014 and 2015.

He won the Australian Open in 2014 before adding the French Open (2015) and U.S. Open (2016) titles to his trophy cabinet.

The world number 24 is in rehabilitation at his base in Monaco. His spokeswoman told Reuters last month that the player hoped to be fit for the grasscourt season.

Three-times Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka has pulled out of Wimbledon due to a foot injury that also ruled him out of the ongoing French Open, the governing body of men's tennis (ATP) has said.

Three-times Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka has pulled out of Wimbledon due to a foot injury that also ruled him out of the ongoing French Open, the governing body of men's tennis (ATP) has said. Former world number three Wawrinka underwent an operation on his left foot earlier this year. The 36-year-old Swiss has not played on the ATP Tour since his opening round defeat by Lloyd Harris at the Qatar Open in March. The Wimbledon competition starts on June 28. Wawrinka has competed at the All England Club on 15 occasions, reaching the quarter-finals in 2014 and 2015. He won the Australian Open in 2014 before adding the French Open (2015) and U.S. Open (2016) titles to his trophy cabinet. The world number 24 is in rehabilitation at his base in Monaco. His spokeswoman told Reuters last month that the player hoped to be fit for the grasscourt season.

Tennnis: Stan Wawrinka out of Wimbledon due to foot injury

Andy Murray has decided to miss the French Open as he continues to recover from a groin injury and he will focus on the grasscourt swing instead, British media reported on Saturday.

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He&nbsp;won't contend at Roland Garros this year in the wake of experiencing some inconvenience during the ATP Masters 1000 occasion in Rome and will rather endeavour to get back to singles during the impending grass season and Wimbledon.

The former world number one has not played a singles match since March when he pulled out of the Miami Open due to a groin injury. He made a comeback in Rome at the Italian Open but only played in the doubles competition where he was knocked out in the last 16.

Murray ranked 123rd in the world after long layoffs due to hip injuries was set to enter the qualifying rounds for the French Open as he waited for organizers to decide on whether he would receive a wildcard.

The 34-year-old Scot, a three-time Grand Slam champion, was expected to make his singles comeback at claycourt tournaments in either Geneva or Lyon next week but his name was not on the list of wildcards.&nbsp;Five months into the season, Murray has competed in singles at only two ATP tournaments and he has admitted to his morale faltering after so many days in rehab at home. It seems imperative that he is ready to compete in three weeks.

The grasscourt swing begins next month.

Wimbledon, a tournament Murray has won twice, begins on June 28.

Andy Murray has decided to miss the French Open as he continues to recover from a groin injury and he will focus on the grasscourt swing instead, British media reported on Saturday.

Andy Murray has decided to miss the French Open as he continues to recover from a groin injury and he will focus on the grasscourt swing instead, British media reported on Saturday. ALSO READ: 'What dreams are made of': Schmeichel hails Leicester history makers He won't contend at Roland Garros this year in the wake of experiencing some inconvenience during the ATP Masters 1000 occasion in Rome and will rather endeavour to get back to singles during the impending grass season and Wimbledon. The former world number one has not played a singles match since March when he pulled out of the Miami Open due to a groin injury. He made a comeback in Rome at the Italian Open but only played in the doubles competition where he was knocked out in the last 16. Murray ranked 123rd in the world after long layoffs due to hip injuries was set to enter the qualifying rounds for the French Open as he waited for organizers to decide on whether he would receive a wildcard. The 34-year-old Scot, a three-time Grand Slam champion, was expected to make his singles comeback at claycourt tournaments in either Geneva or Lyon next week but his name was not on the list of wildcards. Five months into the season, Murray has competed in singles at only two ATP tournaments and he has admitted to his morale faltering after so many days in rehab at home. It seems imperative that he is ready to compete in three weeks. The grasscourt swing begins next month. Wimbledon, a tournament Murray has won twice, begins on June 28.

Andy Murray to skip French Open and prepare for grass court season

Wimbledon is set to take place next year even if the grass-court championship should be staged behind closed doors without any fans, organisers announced on Friday.

Wimbledon is set to take place next year even if the grass-court championship should be staged behind closed doors without any fans, organisers announced on Friday. The British Grand Slam was cancelled for the first time since World War II. It was cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic. Global tennis faced a major disruption due to the pandemic. However, the US Open went ahead behind closed doors and the French Open took place in front of only 1,000 fans a day after its starting date was moved from May to late September. According to several scenarios planned by the All England Club, they can go ahead with the tournament with a full-capacity Wimbledon, reduced numbers of fans or holding the tournament with no spectators present. Also read: 'It’s pretty crazy here', Iga Swiatek on her brand new celebrity status "Staging the championships in 2021 is our number-one priority and we are actively engaged in scenario-planning in order to deliver on that priority," said chief executive Sally Bolton. Wimbledon's statement read: "Our overriding priority will continue to be the health and safety of all of our stakeholders, in particular our guests, our staff, and our competitors. "We are working closely with the relevant government and public health authorities, alongside the rest of the sports industry, to understand the varying challenges and opportunities presented by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic." The Grand Slam will be held from June 28 to July 11, 2021. Wimbledon has been working closely with local communities during the pandemic and will continue to provide 200 hot meals a day to people in need until Christmas. More than £750,000 ($970,000) has been donated to charities and organisations, while 30,000 of the famous Wimbledon towels that were intended to be used for the 2020 tournament have been given away. (Inputs from AFP)

Wimbledon set to return in 2021 even without fans

July 9 in history: First Prime Minister of France, first Wimbledon and more

Wimbledon has thanked the NHS and the frontline workers for their efforts to curb the coronavirus in the country by sending strawberries.&nbsp;

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The British Grand Slam was called off this year for the first time since World War II due to the coronavirus pandemic and to thanks the relief workers, the English club is donating 200 punnets of strawberries per day ahead of the 72nd anniversary of the National Health Service.

More than 26,000 strawberries that would have been sold during the fortnight are being hulled (de-stemmed) and portioned by a group of staff at the south-west London venue.

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"Since the cancellation of the championships, we have been very focused on doing what we can to help those in our local community who are undergoing hardship as a result of the coronavirus crisis," AELTC chief executive Richard Lewis said.

"Our staff have been particularly keen to do what they can to help during this time and we were pleased that so many of them volunteered to take part in the strawberry hulling operation during the Wimbledon fortnight."

The first batch of strawberries was delivered to St George's Hospital Charity on Monday.

"It was a lovely surprise gesture and a great token of appreciation for our amazing NHS staff who have been working tirelessly during this crisis," CEO Amerjit Chohan said.

Wimbledon has actively participated in helping the community during the time of crisis by providing 200 hot meals per day to those in need in local boroughs.

Those meals will now feature some fresh strawberries too.

Roughly 27,000 kilos of strawberries and 7,000 litres of cream are usually eaten during the English Grand Slam.&nbsp;

(Inputs from Reuters)

Wimbledon has thanked the NHS and the frontline workers for their efforts to curb the coronavirus in the country by sending strawberries. Also read: South Korean triathlete Choi Suk-Hyeon kills herself after coaching abuse: Reports The British Grand Slam was called off this year for the first time since World War II due to the coronavirus pandemic and to thanks the relief workers, the English club is donating 200 punnets of strawberries per day ahead of the 72nd anniversary of the National Health Service.

Wimbledon has thanked the NHS and the frontline workers for their efforts to curb the coronavirus in the country by sending strawberries. Also read: South Korean triathlete Choi Suk-Hyeon kills herself after coaching abuse: Reports The British Grand Slam was called off this year for the first time since World War II due to the coronavirus pandemic and to thanks the relief workers, the English club is donating 200 punnets of strawberries per day ahead of the 72nd anniversary of the National Health Service. More than 26,000 strawberries that would have been sold during the fortnight are being hulled (de-stemmed) and portioned by a group of staff at the south-west London venue. Also read: ‘Younis Khan held a knife to my throat’: Grant Flower on his stint as Pakistan batting coach "Since the cancellation of the championships, we have been very focused on doing what we can to help those in our local community who are undergoing hardship as a result of the coronavirus crisis," AELTC chief executive Richard Lewis said. "Our staff have been particularly keen to do what they can to help during this time and we were pleased that so many of them volunteered to take part in the strawberry hulling operation during the Wimbledon fortnight." The first batch of strawberries was delivered to St George's Hospital Charity on Monday. "It was a lovely surprise gesture and a great token of appreciation for our amazing NHS staff who have been working tirelessly during this crisis," CEO Amerjit Chohan said. Wimbledon has actively participated in helping the community during the time of crisis by providing 200 hot meals per day to those in need in local boroughs. Those meals will now feature some fresh strawberries too. Roughly 27,000 kilos of strawberries and 7,000 litres of cream are usually eaten during the English Grand Slam. (Inputs from Reuters)

'Strawberries and cream': Wimbledon thanks London's NHS and front-line workers for their efforts!

Outgoing &nbsp;All England club Chief Executive Richard Lewis has said that there will be no financial impact on British tennis after this year's Wimbledon got cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

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The British Grand Slam was set to begin on Monday but got cancelled for the first time since World War II after coronavirus wreck havoc on the island country.&nbsp;

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said its spending plans would not have to be curtailed.

"It won't be severely impacted. If you have to cancel, it's great to have insurance," Lewis, who will step down as the CEO next month, told British media.

"We're still in a very good position, we're financially very stable. British tennis is going to be pretty well protected." 
&nbsp; 
But the association does not have a similar kind of insurance to cover the losses if the grand slam is cancelled in 2021.&nbsp;

"That's impossible in the current climate," he said. "When I started in 2012, there were some signs that things were not insurable, because of communicable diseases that had taken place, like Sars and swine flu.

"In the immediate aftermath you can't get insurance but fairly soon after that, you can start to get insurance again, the market returns. So there won't be insurance next year.

"But just because we've made one claim, it won't affect us in the long term."

The US Open and French Open are set to resume play in the upcoming months after a long halt due to pandemic.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Outgoing All England club Chief Executive Richard Lewis has said that there will be no financial impact on British tennis after this year's Wimbledon got cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic.

Outgoing All England club Chief Executive Richard Lewis has said that there will be no financial impact on British tennis after this year's Wimbledon got cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic. Also read: 'How selfish can you be?' - Nick Kyrgios tears apart Alexander Zverev over viral party video at crowded club The British Grand Slam was set to begin on Monday but got cancelled for the first time since World War II after coronavirus wreck havoc on the island country. The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said its spending plans would not have to be curtailed. "It won't be severely impacted. If you have to cancel, it's great to have insurance," Lewis, who will step down as the CEO next month, told British media. "We're still in a very good position, we're financially very stable. British tennis is going to be pretty well protected." But the association does not have a similar kind of insurance to cover the losses if the grand slam is cancelled in 2021. "That's impossible in the current climate," he said. "When I started in 2012, there were some signs that things were not insurable, because of communicable diseases that had taken place, like Sars and swine flu. "In the immediate aftermath you can't get insurance but fairly soon after that, you can start to get insurance again, the market returns. So there won't be insurance next year. "But just because we've made one claim, it won't affect us in the long term." The US Open and French Open are set to resume play in the upcoming months after a long halt due to pandemic.

Wimbledon 2020 being cancelled had no financial impact on British tennis: All England club Chief Executive

12-time Grand Slam champion Mahesh Bhupathi believes that the cancellation of Wimbledon will hit Roger Federer and Serena Williams the most as they approach the final years of their careers. In an exclusive conversation with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Bhupathisaid that he believes that the current lockdown due to the coronavirus will have larger ramifications when it comes to the battle for the greatest tennis player of all time between Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.

Heartbroken at Wimbledon cancellation 'virus rewriting history books in tennis' | Mahesh Bhupathi

Wimbledon was canceled on Wednesday because of the coronavirus pandemic, the first time since World War II that the oldest Grand Slam tennis tournament won't be played.

The All England Club announced after an emergency meeting that the event it refers to simply as The Championships is being scrapped for 2020. Wimbledon was scheduled to be played on the club's grass courts on the outskirts of London from June 29 to July 12.

Instead, the next edition of the tournament will be June 28 to July 11, 2021. The tournament was first held in 1877 and has been contested every year since, with the exception of two stretches: from 1915-18 because of World War I, and from 1940-45 because of World War II.

It now joins the growing list of sports events scrapped completely in 2020 because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

That includes the Tokyo Olympics ? which have been pushed back 12 months ?( and the NCAA men's and women's college basketball tournaments.

Wimbledon is the first major tennis championship completely wiped out this year because of the coronavirus. The start of the French Open was postponed from late May to late September.

As of now, the U.S. Open is still scheduled to be played in New York from Aug. 31 to Sept. 13.&nbsp;

Wimbledon was canceled on Wednesday because of the coronavirus pandemic, the first time since World War II that the oldest Grand Slam tennis tournament won't be played.

Wimbledon was canceled on Wednesday because of the coronavirus pandemic, the first time since World War II that the oldest Grand Slam tennis tournament won't be played. The All England Club announced after an emergency meeting that the event it refers to simply as The Championships is being scrapped for 2020. Wimbledon was scheduled to be played on the club's grass courts on the outskirts of London from June 29 to July 12. Instead, the next edition of the tournament will be June 28 to July 11, 2021. The tournament was first held in 1877 and has been contested every year since, with the exception of two stretches: from 1915-18 because of World War I, and from 1940-45 because of World War II. It now joins the growing list of sports events scrapped completely in 2020 because of the COVID-19 outbreak. That includes the Tokyo Olympics ? which have been pushed back 12 months ?( and the NCAA men's and women's college basketball tournaments. Wimbledon is the first major tennis championship completely wiped out this year because of the coronavirus. The start of the French Open was postponed from late May to late September. As of now, the U.S. Open is still scheduled to be played in New York from Aug. 31 to Sept. 13.

Wimbledon canceled for 1st time since WWII because of COVID-19 pandemic

Wimbledon looks certain to be scrapped for the first time since World War II by tournament chiefs on Wednesday as the coronavirus wreaks further havoc on the global sporting calendar.

The cancellation of the only grasscourt Grand Slam tournament at the All England Club would leave the tennis season in disarray after the French Open was controversially moved and all events cancelled until June 7.

Wimbledon, in leafy southwest London, is due to run for two weeks from June 29, with Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep set to defend their singles titles.

A decision to scrap the tournament is widely expected, with the world struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19, which has infected more than 840,000 people worldwide and killed over 40,000.

Lead-up tournaments in the short grasscourt season are also likely to be scrapped following talks on Tuesday, understood to have involved Wimbledon chiefs and the game's governing bodies.

Organisers had earlier ruled out playing the Grand Slam behind closed doors and postponing the event would also create its own problems.

Three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker on Tuesday pleaded for tournament chiefs to wait longer before making a decision.

"I really hope Wimbledon will wait until the end of April for decision!" he tweeted. "The tourney is first week of July... patience is a virtue."

But former women's world number one Amelie Mauresmo, the 2006 Wimbledon champion, said the 2020 season would probably need to be scrapped.

"I think that we are going to have to draw a line under the 2020 tennis season," she tweeted.

The cancellation of Wimbledon could mean multiple champions Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Venus Williams have played at the All England Club for the final time.

Federer and Serena will be nearly 40 by the time of the 2021 championships and Venus will be 41.

Serena, beaten in last year's final by Halep, is stuck on 23 Grand Slam singles titles -- agonisingly one away from equalling Margaret Court's record.

The conditions required to play on grass in England mean a postponement is impractical and a date later in the summer or early autumn would mean much shorter evenings.

"Each week that passes, you get less and less light to play the tournament," doubles specialist Jamie Murray told the BBC.

American giant John Isner, who won the longest-ever tennis match over three days at Wimbledon in 2010, said the scrapping of the tournament would be a "tough pill to swallow".

"We may have to come to grips with the fact that we may not be playing Wimbledon this year," he told ESPN on Tuesday.

"Wimbledon sort of has to be played this (same) time of year," Isner said.

"With that surface, the event, it seems, has to be played this time and there's a good chance it won't be."

The French Tennis Federation provoked widespread anger with its unilateral decision to move the French Open from its original May 24 start date to begin on September 20.

That puts the start only one week after the planned date of the US Open men's final.

Wimbledon looks certain to be scrapped for the first time since World War II by tournament chiefs on Wednesday as the coronavirus wreaks further havoc on the global sporting calendar.

Wimbledon looks certain to be scrapped for the first time since World War II by tournament chiefs on Wednesday as the coronavirus wreaks further havoc on the global sporting calendar. The cancellation of the only grasscourt Grand Slam tournament at the All England Club would leave the tennis season in disarray after the French Open was controversially moved and all events cancelled until June 7. Wimbledon, in leafy southwest London, is due to run for two weeks from June 29, with Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep set to defend their singles titles. A decision to scrap the tournament is widely expected, with the world struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19, which has infected more than 840,000 people worldwide and killed over 40,000. Lead-up tournaments in the short grasscourt season are also likely to be scrapped following talks on Tuesday, understood to have involved Wimbledon chiefs and the game's governing bodies. Organisers had earlier ruled out playing the Grand Slam behind closed doors and postponing the event would also create its own problems. Three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker on Tuesday pleaded for tournament chiefs to wait longer before making a decision. "I really hope Wimbledon will wait until the end of April for decision!" he tweeted. "The tourney is first week of July... patience is a virtue." But former women's world number one Amelie Mauresmo, the 2006 Wimbledon champion, said the 2020 season would probably need to be scrapped. "I think that we are going to have to draw a line under the 2020 tennis season," she tweeted. The cancellation of Wimbledon could mean multiple champions Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Venus Williams have played at the All England Club for the final time. Federer and Serena will be nearly 40 by the time of the 2021 championships and Venus will be 41. Serena, beaten in last year's final by Halep, is stuck on 23 Grand Slam singles titles -- agonisingly one away from equalling Margaret Court's record. The conditions required to play on grass in England mean a postponement is impractical and a date later in the summer or early autumn would mean much shorter evenings. "Each week that passes, you get less and less light to play the tournament," doubles specialist Jamie Murray told the BBC. American giant John Isner, who won the longest-ever tennis match over three days at Wimbledon in 2010, said the scrapping of the tournament would be a "tough pill to swallow". "We may have to come to grips with the fact that we may not be playing Wimbledon this year," he told ESPN on Tuesday. "Wimbledon sort of has to be played this (same) time of year," Isner said. "With that surface, the event, it seems, has to be played this time and there's a good chance it won't be." The French Tennis Federation provoked widespread anger with its unilateral decision to move the French Open from its original May 24 start date to begin on September 20. That puts the start only one week after the planned date of the US Open men's final.

Wimbledon set to be cancelled for first time since WWII

Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports.

All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) officials earlier said the June 29-July 12 event would not be played behind closed doors and postponement was not without significant risk and difficulty.

“Wimbledon has stated that they will have a board meeting next Wednesday and will make the final decision there,” Hordorff told Sky Sports Germany.

“I am also involved in the bodies of the ATP and WTA. The necessary decisions have already been made there and Wimbledon will decide to cancel next Wednesday. There is no doubt about it. This is necessary in the current situation.

“It is completely unrealistic to imagine that with the travel restrictions that we currently have an international tennis tournament where hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world would travel. That is unthinkable.”

The AELTC did not respond to a request for comment.

The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics opened up a two-week window in the tennis calendar in July/August but it is less likely that it will be feasible for Wimbledon, which has only two covered courts and cannot be held past late summer.

French Open organisers stunned the tennis world by unilaterally postponing the claycourt Grand Slam at Roland Garros from May until late September because of the pandemic.

The French Tennis Federation (FFT) came under heavy fire from tennis players around the world at the lack of communication as the new dates clashed with several other events already featuring on the calendar.

The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which runs women’s tournaments, require their players to participate at the four Grand Slams, but the new French Open dates are yet to feature on the calendars of either association.

“The unilateral behaviour of the organizers has been criticized by everyone and I can simply predict that the French Open will not be relocated as it was intended,” Hordorff said.

He said either the FFT would go ahead with the new dates and feel the wrath of the entire tennis world or they have the option to start working with others to draw up a plan that makes sense for everyone.

“They will be deprived of the points and they will degenerate into a chaos event,” he said.

“Even those there have understood that and they are slowly crawling back. Solidarity is the order of the day, it is a matter of being together and not going it alone, as the president of the French Tennis Association did.”

Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports.

Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports. All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) officials earlier said the June 29-July 12 event would not be played behind closed doors and postponement was not without significant risk and difficulty. “Wimbledon has stated that they will have a board meeting next Wednesday and will make the final decision there,” Hordorff told Sky Sports Germany. “I am also involved in the bodies of the ATP and WTA. The necessary decisions have already been made there and Wimbledon will decide to cancel next Wednesday. There is no doubt about it. This is necessary in the current situation. “It is completely unrealistic to imagine that with the travel restrictions that we currently have an international tennis tournament where hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world would travel. That is unthinkable.” The AELTC did not respond to a request for comment. The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics opened up a two-week window in the tennis calendar in July/August but it is less likely that it will be feasible for Wimbledon, which has only two covered courts and cannot be held past late summer. French Open organisers stunned the tennis world by unilaterally postponing the claycourt Grand Slam at Roland Garros from May until late September because of the pandemic. The French Tennis Federation (FFT) came under heavy fire from tennis players around the world at the lack of communication as the new dates clashed with several other events already featuring on the calendar. The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which runs women’s tournaments, require their players to participate at the four Grand Slams, but the new French Open dates are yet to feature on the calendars of either association. “The unilateral behaviour of the organizers has been criticized by everyone and I can simply predict that the French Open will not be relocated as it was intended,” Hordorff said. He said either the FFT would go ahead with the new dates and feel the wrath of the entire tennis world or they have the option to start working with others to draw up a plan that makes sense for everyone. “They will be deprived of the points and they will degenerate into a chaos event,” he said. “Even those there have understood that and they are slowly crawling back. Solidarity is the order of the day, it is a matter of being together and not going it alone, as the president of the French Tennis Association did.”

Wimbledon will be cancelled, says German tennis official - report

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