3 July 2023, Mumbai: Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek began their Wimbledon campaigns with impressive straight-set victories on a day that experienced a rain delay. Djokovic, who won the Australian Open and French Open earlier this year, aims to complete a calendar-year Grand Slam, a feat not achieved in men’s tennis since 1969. Meanwhile, Swiatek, the reigning French Open champion, seeks to make her mark on the grass courts of Wimbledon after previous early exits.
Djokovic, the second seed, notched his 23rd Grand Slam win at the French Open, surpassing Rafael Nadal for the most major titles in men’s tennis. Following an hour-long rain delay, Djokovic defeated Pedro Cachin 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (4), with the groundskeepers using leaf blowers to dry the grass. The Serbian player expressed frustration over the conditions but managed to maintain his composure.
Swiatek, who holds four major titles, dominated her first-round match against Zhu Lin, securing a 6-1, 6-3 victory at No. 1 Court. The roof was closed due to rain, but it didn’t deter Swiatek, who finished strong by winning the final two games. The Polish player feels better prepared for Wimbledon this year, having gained valuable experience and confidence from her triumph at the French Open.
Barbora Strycova, a semifinalist in 2019, claimed the first victory of the tournament by defeating Maryna Zanevska 6-1, 7-5. On the men’s side, seventh-seeded Andrey Rublev overcame Max Purcell 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 on No. 3 Court.
As the action continues at Wimbledon, attention shifts to Venus Williams, a seasoned participant making her 24th appearance at the prestigious tournament. The 43-year-old American will face Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina. With five of her seven Grand Slam singles titles won at Wimbledon, Williams aims to add to her remarkable record.
Following Swiatek’s victory at No. 1 Court, Casper Ruud, a three-time Grand Slam runner-up, took on Laurent Lokoli. Later, 19-year-old American sensation Coco Gauff, last year’s French Open finalist, is set to go up against Sofia Kenin, the 2020 Australian Open champion.Wimbledon’s opening day has showcased both established champions and emerging talents, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable tournament ahead.
Article by PRITESH PATEL