Two-time defending champion Novak Djokovic will kick-off his Wimbledon campaign against local wildcard James Ward in what would be the curtain-raiser match on Monday.
Although the opener is poised to be an easy nut to crack for the top-ranked Serb given that he’s amid the peak of his career, he’s wary of the fact that this would be his first ever meeting against the 177th-ranked Ward; and first-timers are always capable of pulling off surprises.
“Every time you face an opponent for the first time, it’s always important to start off well and not allow your opponent to take his chances and opportunities,” Djokovic was quoted as saying by Wimbledon.
What makes the match-up even more interesting is that it would be played first on the Centre Court this afternoon, meaning that the brand new grass would only make the contest even more interesting.
“Obviously I know that he doesn’t have much to lose,” continued the Serb. “The Centre Court is one of the cradles of our sport, will be hopefully packed, and we can enjoy a great match.
“It’s going to be the first match on the untouched grass. That’s probably one of the most special tennis matches that you get to experience as a professional tennis player. I’m looking forward to that.”
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