After a strong run, defending champion Jannik Sinner returns to Wimbledon with a diminished sense of invincibility. The world number one must demonstrate that he can force his game on grass and hold off Novak Djokovic’s challengers.
Before he collapsed at the French Open last month owing to physical issues, few would have questioned Sinner’s formidable run on clay, prompting new questions about whether he can maintain that level when the pressure is at its highest at the Grand Slams.
Sinner has an opportunity to start over on the fastest surface in the sport, but opponents will be keeping a close eye out for any indications of weakness after the 24-year-old missed tune-up competitions prior to the Grand Slam starting on Monday at the All England Club.
Seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander stated that despite the loss in Paris, where Sinner’s 30-match winning streak dating back to February was broken in the second round, he is still the man to defeat in the absence of the injured Carlos Alcaraz.
Djokovic, whose movement and return on grass make him a strong threat, may be the man who has the biggest impact on Sinner’s title defense. The Serb will aim for his eighth Wimbledon victory to tie the record held by the legendary Roger Federer of Switzerland.
More importantly, there is not much time left for the 39-year-old to accomplish both goals in the last stages of his illustrious career. Djokovic will also resume his pursuit of the elusive 25th Grand Slam crown.
At the All England Club, where Djokovic last won the title four years ago, three-time Wimbledon finalist Andy Roddick stated that the Serb cannot be written off from the title discussion. Djokovic was another early casualty at the French Open.
Alexander Zverev, a 29-year-old who hopes to continue momentum into grass, will draw encouragement from his French Open victory and long-awaited Grand Slam breakthrough if form is the key.
Alcaraz was one of the few players who could dominate on grass like the Spaniard did in victorious campaigns in 2023 and 2024, but his departure has left a big hole in the draw and made room for more competitors.
American Ben Shelton and fellow countrymen Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe have the tools to challenge elite players in the pursuing pack, while Flavio Cobolli, the runner-up at Roland Garros, is leading the following group who will also want to leave their imprint.
