Are You Looking At Me?! Who’s On The End Of Murray’s Stare Down?

Andy Murray’s five-set victory against Oscar Otte on Wednesday evening was a typical Murray experience. There were many ups and downs, and he showed both positive and negative emotions. After finding a way through, the Scot lifted both arms as if he was a gladiator who just triumphed at the Colosseum.

“One of the reasons why I'm still playing is because of moments like that,” Murray said. “Why would you want to give that up? The atmosphere… was good the whole match, but especially the last hour-and-a-half was brilliant. I still enjoy that.”

Unreal atmosphere out there tonight… thanks so much to everyone that was in there watching and supporting.. you carried me over the line 👏 life in the old dog yet eh!🐕

— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) June 30, 2021

Play was suspended early in the fourth set, with Murray down two sets to one. The two-time Wimbledon champion returned to Centre Court keen to use the crowd to his advantage.

“I picked a few people in the crowd and was basically staring at them pretty much after every point and trying to just engage with them,” Murray said. “The crowd created a great atmosphere, but I think I was also engaging them and we were feeding off each other a lot at the end.

“I’m aware in the moment. I know what a great atmosphere is in tennis. I have played in a few of them over the years, and that was definitely one of them. Obviously when the atmosphere is like that and things are going your way, it's a nice feeling.”

Murray spotted several fans whom he engaged with, including two guys with Scotland rugby shirts.

“They were just really loud and it was quite close to where I was getting my towel and stuff, and they were always sort of standing up,” Murray said. “Then there was the other guy that was down at near where the radio booths were. He was just standing up all the time and getting pumped and he just caught my eye.

“Each time I won a point, and even when I lost points [I] just [was] looking at him. The crowd feels that I guess and feel like you're feeding off them and stuff. It was nice. It helps. It's something I have done a number of times over the years in certain matches.

“I hope the fans like it and don't think that it's a bit weird that I'm sort of staring at them and screaming at them for like an hour, but they seem to enjoy it, as well.”

It will not get any easier for Murray, who will next play dynamic shotmaker Denis Shapovalov, who is seeded 10th. This will be their first ATP Head2Head meeting.

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Tomljanovic On Berrettini: His Game Is Great, His Mental Side Is Even Better

Matteo Berrettini and his girlfriend, WTA standout Ajla Tomljanovic, both advanced to the second round at Wimbledon on Wednesday. After her victory, Tomljanovic said that from watching the Italian up close, she believes there is far more to his game than a booming serve and hammer-like forehand.

“I actually think what’s most impressive about him is his mental side. Obviously his serve, his forehand, his game is great. But I think the way he approaches the game mentally, how he deals with adversity on court during matches [is most impressive],” Tomljanovic said. “Obviously I’m more on the inside so I know that it’s not always coming naturally to him to be that positive. He works for a lot of things that come his way and I think that’s really impressive, because I can relate to feeling similarly on the court.

“Sometimes it gets the better of me and obviously him too, but for the most part he tries really hard to get through it and use it to his advantage. I think it’s impressive and I think he’s working on it daily, so I try to draw on that sometimes.”

The WTA’s World No. 75 pointed to Berrettini’s maturity and how quickly he has grown as a player. Just three years ago, the Italian competed at Wimbledon for the first time. In October 2019, he cracked the Top 10 of the FedEx ATP Rankings and he has not left the elite group since.

“I remember two years ago here [at Wimbledon when he made the fourth round], it’s a huge difference. Okay, two years is a long time, but still some players don’t do it so rapidly,” Tomljanovic said. “He’s had that success not out of nowhere, but he became Top 10 in a very short period of time and sometimes the mind doesn’t follow as quickly as your game, but he has. I think it’s great.”

Tomljanovic does not believe that there is a secret to how Berrettini has handled the mental side of the game so well. But she thinks his willingness to learn is at the fore.

“I think he just learns from every defeat, every tough moment he has in his career. You can see that the next time he’s grown from it and he learns and he really uses that time to recognise, ‘Okay, what was wrong? What do I need to do better?’” Tomljanovic said. “That just proves that with his ranking and his game, he’s just improving and the best part is that he’s eager to learn.”

Berrettini will play Botic Van de Zandschulp on Wednesday for a spot in the third round, and Tomljanovic will face Alize Cornet.

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Preview: Federer’s Familiar Foe, Medvedev Meets Alcaraz At Wimbledon

Roger Federer’s first match at Wimbledon wasn’t quite the triumphant return he might have expected, but the eight-time champion is ready to keep things rolling at the All England Club as he takes on a familiar foe in the second round. Second seed Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev and #NextGenATP Carlos Alcaraz will also be in action on Day 4 at The Championships. 

Sixth seed Federer had a battle on his hands in his first match on Centre Court since the 2019 final (l. to Djokovic). He had to fight through Adrian Mannarino, who led by two sets to one. Just as Federer was finding his feet in the fourth, the Frenchman slipped behind the baseline and was eventually unable to continue. 

“I think I was maybe turning things around a little bit [in the fourth set],” Federer reflected afterwards. “I would have been interested to see if I got through that fourth set normally. I was going to be able to change my game, the points, the way they were created nicely. That would have given me options going into the fifth. Then again, who knows.” 

Federer will be hoping for a more straightforward victory as he faces Richard Gasquet in the second round. The pair have met 20 times in their ATP Head2Head, with Federer owning a confidence-boosting 18-2 edge (3-0 on grass courts) over the Frenchman. But that doesn't mean that Gasquet will be rolling over in their next match.

“I’m playing for this. When I was in the first round, I saw the draw. I knew I could play Roger in the second round,” Gasquet told ATPTour.com. “Of course it’s wonderful for me, because I will play on Centre Court. It’s Roger Federer. I’ve played him many times. I’m practising for this."

It’s been 10 years since Gasquet has taken a set off Federer, but the Swiss player won’t be taking anything for granted as he continues his comeback after a snakebitten and abbreviated 2020 season.

[TENNIS POINT]

Over on No. 1 Court, second seed Medvedev will aim to continue his newfound success on grass courts as he faces #NextGenATP Carlos Alcaraz for the first time.

The Russian has made a habit of pushing himself out of his comfort zone this year, finding a way to claim wins on surfaces where victories have previously eluded him. He entered the clay-court swing without a victory to his name in Madrid, Rome and Paris, and he walked away a first-time Roland Garros quarter-finalist.

Could he do the same on grass, one of his favourite surfaces? The signs are there: after shaking off a first-round defeat in Halle, Medvedev rallied at the Mallorca Championships to claim his 11th ATP Tour title – his first trophy away from hard courts.

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“Four years ago, I would say that [grass] was my favourite surface. But after my results on hard courts I couldn’t say anything else other than hard courts, and I still like playing on hard courts more,” Medvedev said after his win in Mallorca. “It was important for me to get these things like titles going, because we don’t have a lot of tournaments [on this surface]... It gives you a lot of confidence.”

Medvedev will try to reach the third round at Wimbledon – equalling his best result – for the third year in a row as he takes on tournament debutant Alcaraz. The 18-year-old Spaniard, who received a wild card into the main draw, impressed with his first tour-level win on grass when he defeated Yasutaka Uchiyama in five sets.

“I really like [grass], I feel comfortable playing here. I could not play any tournaments on grass before Wimbledon, but every day I feel more comfortable,” Alcaraz said after the victory. “I am improving to stay calm in the tough moments and play at the same level. I played really well, and I am excited to play against [Daniil] Medvedev in the second round.”

 

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Elsewhere at the All England Club, fourth seed Alexander Zverev will face Tennys Sandren on No. 2 Court as he seeks to improve his record at Wimbledon, the only Grand Slam where he has yet to advance past the fourth round. Matteo Berrettini, the seventh seed and cinch Championships winner, will also be in action as he takes on Botic Van de Zandschulp on No. 3 Court. 

Nick Kyrgios delighted fans with a dramatic five-set victory over Ugo Humbert in his first match outside of Australia since 2020. He will hope to keep the momentum going as he faces Italian Gianluca Mager on No. 3 Court.

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Andy Murray makes Wimbledon request for Denis Shapovalov clash after epic five-set win

Andy Murray secured his spot in the third round of Wimbledon after seeing off Oscar Otte on Wednesday night in an absorbing encounter.

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Andy Murray rekindles Wimbledon love affair in thrilling five-set win against Oscar Otte

Andy Murray rolled back the years at Wimbledon on Centre Court with a stunning comeback win over Oscar Otte.

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Murray’s Dramatic Comeback Keeps Wimbledon Run Alive

Former champion Andy Murray trailed by two sets to one on Wednesday night, but he rallied back under the lights on Centre Court to take down qualifier Oscar Otte 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 and return to the third round at Wimbledon. 

Murray, who is competing at The Championships with a wild card, is contesting his first singles campaign since 2017 as he continued to make his way back to full form after undergoing hip surgeries. He recorded an upset over 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashivili in the previous round, though he quickly had his hands full against a determined Otte, who previously pushed World No. 6 Alexander Zverev to five sets in their Roland Garros meeting last month.

But the Brit never stopped fighting, and he rallied the fans on Centre Court  to maintain his perfect record of always reaching the third round at Wimbledon in 13 appearances. Murray will next face 10th seed Denis Shapovalov, who received a walkover from Pablo Andujar (rib injury) to advance.

Murray looked to be in control in the early stages as he took the opening set without facing a break point and led by 3-1 in the second. But Otte worked his way back into the contest as he took advantage of unforced errors creeping into Murray’s game, and pounced on attackable second serves. The Brit’s familiar disgruntled commentary grew in volume along with his frustration, as Otte reeled off four games in a row to take the second set 6-4 and edged through with a break in the third. 

But with the qualifier charging toward the finish line, the match had one final twist left as play was paused at 2-2 in the fourth set to close the roof over Centre Court due to darkness. Murray used the pause to hit the reset button, and returned with renewed determination as the crowd’s vocal support seemed to amplify.

It never gets old, does it?

Centre Court rides the @andy_murray rollercoaster once again 🎢#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/mjkC92FT8F

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) June 30, 2021

Murray kept Otte on the move with smart forays to the net, and he took a 3-0 lead in the fifth set with a drop shot to claim a break of serve. He held firm against Otte’s firepower, escaping with his serve after a tight 4-2 game where he was pushed to deuce three times, closing it out with a passing shot on the run. After three hours and 50 minutes, Murray sealed the victory with a backhand lob winner to claim his place in the third round. 

Elsewhere in Murray’s section of the draw, Cameron Norrie came back from a set down against Lucas Pouille to win 6-7(6), 7-5, 6-2, 7-5. The 29th seed claimed all three sets played today after their match was suspended yesterday due to darkness. 

Norrie, who reached the cinch Championships final at The Queen’s Club, dictated play as he created 17 break opportunities throughout the match, and converted on seven occasions. He moved into the second round for the second time, where he will face Australian wild card Alex Bolt. 

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“I'm feeling good. I think I've done well to keep momentum. I keep building on the matches,” Norrie said. “I think today that was a good example of obviously winning a lot this year, having a lot of confidence, and getting through a lot of tough matches.”

Also in action, 22nd-seeded Daniel Evans cruised past Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 in under two hours on No. 1 Court to reach the third round. The current British No. 1 equalled his best Wimbledon result (also 2016 and 2019) after firing 22 winners and saving five of the seven break points faced. He will face #NextGenATP Sebastian Korda next.

Did You Know?
Murray is contesting his 51st Grand Slam event here, extending his record for most Grand Slam appearances by a British man in the Open Era. He claimed sole ownership of the record, ahead of Tim Henman, by contesting his 50th Grand Slam event at Roland Garros last year.

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Korda Leads American Charge At Wimbledon

Sebastian Korda is wasting no time making his mark at Wimbledon, and he is not the only American doing so.

The #NextGenATP star advanced to the third round on his debut at The Championships on Wednesday with a 7-5, 6-4, 6-4 win against qualifier Antoine Hoang of France.

The last time the grass-court Grand Slam was played, in July 2019, Korda was No. 383 in the FedEx ATP Rankings. Now up to World No. 50, this year’s Emilia-Romagna Open champion is through to the Round of 32 with the loss of just one set.

Korda followed up his upset of 15th seed Alex de Minaur with a comprehensive performance against Hoang in which he hit 42 winners and broke his opponent’s serve six times from 23 opportunities. It took the 20-year-old eight match points — he let slip a break with a 5-2 lead in the third set — but Korda hit his fourth ace to advance after two hours and 48 minutes.

The Floridian will next play 22nd seed Daniel Evans, the home favourite, who eliminated Serbian Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.

“I think it's another difficult match, everything you expect in a third round. He's a great talent. He's a great player already. His game suits up well to the grass,” Evans said. “But it's [the] third round of Wimbledon. There's a lot of added pressure [that] comes with that. He's not been in that position before. There's a lot of different variables.”

^{Photo Credit: AELTC/Jed Leicester - Pool/Getty Images}
Another young American, Frances Tiafoe, earned one of the upset wins of the tournament on Monday when he stunned 2019 Nitto ATP Finals champion Stefanos Tsitsipas. And on Wednesday, not only did the American not suffer a letdown, but he claimed another emphatic triumph to reach the third round.

Tiafoe was nearly flawless in a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win against big-serving Canadian Vasek Pospisil. The 23-year-old did not face a break point to advance after two hours and three minutes.

“I played at a high level, but I’m not satisfied with just beating Stefanos,” Tiafoe said. “At the end of the day, it’s just the second round. I’m in that transition stage of trying to get my ranking back up. That was a big win, but there’s a lot more to go.” 

The World No. 57 will next play 25th seed Karen Khachanov, who defeated Belarusian Egor Gerasimov 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-3 after one hour and 48 minutes. Three years ago at Wimbledon, the Russian rallied from two sets down to oust Tiafoe in the third round.

“Honestly sometimes you get too pumped up and you overplay. I’m comfortable knowing that my game is good enough,” Tiafoe said. “I don’t need to play out of my shoes or anything. But he knows I want it. It’s going to be a good match."

American Sam Querrey knocked off 11th seed Pablo Carreno Busta 7-6(6), 6-4, 7-5 after one hour and 55 minutes. In their only previous ATP Head2Head meeting two years ago in Stockholm, the Spaniard triumphed in three sets.

But this time, Querrey dominated play with his aggressive game, blasting 61 winners — including 22 aces — to defeat the 29-year-old. He has made at least the quarter-finals at Wimbledon on three occasions, and his best Grand Slam performance came on the London lawns in 2017, when he made the semi-finals.

There will be an all-American second-round clash when 31st seed Taylor Fritz plays Steve Johnson. Fritz, who underwent right knee surgery three weeks ago, beat countryman Brandon Nakashima 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, 7-5. Johnson clawed past Austrian Dennis Novak 7-6(7), 6-2, 7-5.

Feature: Fritz's Road From A Wheelchair In Paris To A Win At SW19

In more positive news for the United States, qualifier Denis Kudla beat Italian Andreas Seppi 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 to set a third-round clash against top seed Novak Djokovic. Additionally, Marcos Giron beat Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori 6-4, 2-6, 6-2, 0-6, 6-4 after two hours and 45 minutes in the first round.

One American who did not advance was John Isner. On Court 18, where Isner defeated Nicolas Mahut 70-68 in the fifth set 11 years ago, Yoshihito Nishioka beat the 28th seed 7-6(5), 2-6, 6-3, 6-7(3), 6-4 in the first round. Isner hit 87 winners — including 36 aces — and won four more points than the Japanese lefty, but Nishioka found a way to win after three hours and 28 minutes.

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Nishikori Records 100th Grand Slam Win; Karatsev Falls

Kei Nishikori became only the 12th active player to record 100 Grand Slam match wins on Wednesday as he moved past Australian Alexei Popyrin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 to advance to the second round at Wimbledon.

The former World No. 4 hit 30 winners and broke Popyrin three times for victory in just under two hours. He reached the quarter-finals at the All England Club in 2019 to equal his best result at Wimbledon, and will next face Jordan Thompson after he overcame 12th seeded-Norwegian Casper Ruud 7-6(6), 7-6(3), 2-6, 2-6, 6-2.

"I started really well. I think it the first set I was a little bit shaky, but in the second and third sets, I played really good solid points," Nishikori said. "I served well and I think the return was key. I broke one game in each set, so I am really happy with how I played today."

Nishikori has had runs to the quarter-finals at the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam (l. Borna Coric) and the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (l. Lloyd Harris) this year. He is 15-12 on the season. Popyrini won his maiden ATP Tour title at the Singapore Tennis Open (d. Bublik) in February. The World No. 67 is now 16-13 on the season.

Elsewhere, Jeremy Chardy snapped a fourth-match losing streak and claimed his first grass-court victory of the season as he overcame 2021 breakthrough star Aslan Karatsev 7-6(4), 7-6(6), 6-3.

The Frenchman hit 13 aces and won 75 per cent (38/51) of his first-service points to advance to the second round in two hours and 27 minutes. The 34-year-old is now 16-15 on the season and next faces Ilya Ivashka.

"To be back at Wimbledon is very special," Chardy said. "I love to play on grass. I was lucky to spend one week at home before the tournament, so I was really happy to enjoy that with the family. I am really happy with my match today, I think I played a really solid match from the beginning to the end."

Chardy, No. 61 in the FedEx ATP Rankings, enjoyed a run to the semi-finals at the Antalya Open (l. to Bublik) in January. He produced a strong display to defeat 20th seeded-Russian Karatsev, who was making his Wimbledon debut. In a tight opening set, Karatsev saved the only break point in the 12th game to force a tie-break, which Chardy sealed when Karatsev netted a backhand.

History repeated itself in the second set with Chardy clinching another tie-break, after both fended off break points. He then fired 10 winners in the third set to advance.

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Karatsev has enjoyed a best-ever season, recording 23 tour-levels wins. The 27-year-old claimed the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships title in March (d. Harris) after a run to the semi-finals at the Australian Open in February (l. to Djokovic). The Russian lost in qualifying at SW19 in 2014 and 2015.

Meanwhile, the 25th seed Karan Khachanov moved past Egor Gerasimov 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-3 to set up a third-round meeting with Stefanos Tsitsipas’ conqueror, Frances Tiafoe.

Khachanov reached the third round at Wimbledon in 2019 and 2017 and fired 41 winners to equal his best-ever run at the All England Club. The Russian, who reached the semi-finals at the Open Parc Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Lyon (l. to Norrie) in May, recorded victory in one hour and 51 minutes.

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Andy Murray suffers injury scare in Wimbledon clash vs Oscar Otte and screams in pain

Andy Murray went down with a nasty fall in his Wimbledon second-round clash with Oscar Otte.

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Oscar Otte cuts 'bemused figure' as Wimbledon line judge falls ill in Andy Murray clash

There was an interruption in Andy Murray's Wimbledon second-round match against Oscar Otte.

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Rublev Rolls Past Harris At Wimbledon

Fifth seed Andrey Rublev’s strong grass-court form continued on Wednesday as he eased past Lloyd Harris 6-1, 6-2, 7-5, to reach the third round at Wimbledon for the first time.

The Russian star now holds a 6-1 record on the surface this year, having advanced to the final at the NOVENTI OPEN in Halle (l. to Humbert) earlier this month. Rublev struck 24 winners against Harris to record victory in just 85 minutes.

Rublev helped Russia capture the ATP Cup crown in February and claimed the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament title in Rotterdam (d. Fucsovics) in March. He will next face 26th seed Fabio Fognini, after the Italian defeated Laslo Djere 6-3, 6-4, 0-6, 6-4.

The 23-year-old raced through the first set against Harris, breaking twice to seize control as he struck the ball cleanly from the baseline. Rublev continued where he had left off in the second set to lead 4-1 as he won 77 per cent (10/13) of his first-service points. He sealed the set when Harris hit a forehand long.

The Russian showcased a mixture of power and precision on his backhand and found consistent depth on his forehand return throughout the third set.

Elsewhere, Jeremy Chardy snapped a fourth-match losing streak and claimed his first grass-court victory of the season as he overcame 2021 breakthrough star Aslan Karatsev 7-6(4), 7-6(6), 6-3.

The Frenchman hit 13 aces and won 75 per cent (38/51) of his first-service points to advance to the second round in two hours and 27 minutes. The 34-year-old is now 16-15 on the season and next faces Ilya Ivashka.

"To be back at Wimbledon is very special," Chardy said. "I love to play on grass. I was lucky to spend one week at home before the tournament, so I was really happy to enjoy that with the family. I am really happy with my match today, I think I played a really solid match from the beginning to the end."

Chardy, No. 61 in the FedEx ATP Rankings, enjoyed a run to the semi-finals at the Antalya Open (l. to Bublik) in January. He produced a strong display to defeat 20th seeded-Russian Karatsev, who was making his Wimbledon debut. In a tight opening set, Karatsev saved the only break point in the 12th game to force a tie-break, which Chardy sealed when Karatsev netted a backhand.

History repeated itself in the second set with Chardy clinching another tie-break, after both fended off break points. He then fired 10 winners in the third set to advance.

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Karatsev has enjoyed a best-ever season, recording 23 tour-levels wins. The 27-year-old claimed the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships title in March (d. Harris) after a run to the semi-finals at the Australian Open in February (l. to Djokovic). The Russian lost in qualifying at SW19 in 2014 and 2015.

Meanwhile, the 25th seed Karan Khachanov moved past Egor Gerasimov 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-3 to set up a third-round meeting with Stefanos Tsitsipas’ conqueror, Frances Tiafoe, or Vasek Pospisil.

Khachanov reached the third round at Wimbledon in 2019 and 2017 and fired 41 winners to equal his best-ever run at the All England Club. The Russian, who reached the semi-finals at the Open Parc Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Lyon (l. to Norrie) in May, recorded victory in one hour and 51 minutes.

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Fritz's Road From A Wheelchair In Paris To The Wimbledon Second Round

One month ago, Taylor Fritz was taken off a court at Roland Garros in a wheelchair, destined for surgery on his right knee. On Wednesday, the American advanced to the second round at Wimbledon with a 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, 7-5 win against countryman Brandon Nakashima.

“It’s pretty amazing. This win means a lot more to me than a lot of people realise and than a lot of other big matches I had, just because I literally had surgery exactly three weeks ago,” Fritz said.

“To be here and actually feel like I’m moving 100 per cent and playing well and getting a win against a very good player — I think he would have beaten a lot of people in the draw the way he played today — it’s just amazing to see all the hard work I put in.”

On match point of his second-round clash in Paris against Dominik Koepfer, Fritz came down from a forehand and heard a pop in his right knee. It was a double-whammy, as not only did he lose the match in four sets on that point, but he hurt himself.

“I think the worst thing was when I originally did the injury and I tried to stand up. I limped my way to the net to shake hands, then I tried to stand up afterwards to walk off the court and I couldn’t even stand. That’s when I looked at my coaches and I was like, ‘Guys, I can be out for a long time,’” Fritz recalled. “I had never experienced something [like that]. I’ve had tweaks and I’ve had injuries. I’m very loose-jointed, so typically I don’t get injured that easily I feel like. I just looked at my team and was like, ‘Guys, this could be it for a while.’”

Fritz’s doctor told him that if he had to repair his meniscus, it could have meant being out for six to eight months, which would have been a devastating blow for the 23-year-old.

“When I woke up [from the surgery], he said he didn’t actually have to repair it. They were just able to snip it out and the rest of my cartilage, the rest of my meniscus and everything was intact. Not damaged at all. [It] didn’t need any kind of fixing,” Fritz said. “That was when I was like, ‘Wow, I can do all the right things right now and I might be able to play Wimbledon.’”

 

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Fritz did three-and-a-half-hours of physical therapy six times a week at Elite OrthoSport in California and also removed any inflammatory foods from his diet to help with his recovery. That meant no soda or fried foods to help get the swelling in his knee down from the two incisions.

“It was just long days of PT, nothing incredibly tough, just repetitive. But honestly, it wasn’t tough because I was so motivated to come to Wimbledon,” Fritz said. “I’m so stubborn and I told myself I’m playing Wimbledon, I was really determined. Every day when I was doing my three, four hours of PT, I was thinking ‘Wimbledon, Wimbledon, Wimbledon.’ I was never really discouraged.”

Paul Annacone, a member of Fritz’s coaching team alongside David Nainkin, gave credit to his charge for the work he put in to get to this point. The former coach of Roger Federer and Pete Sampras added that Fritz always wanted to be back for the grass-court major.

“There were a couple of scenarios that could have occurred in surgery and the doctor said he got the scenario that was best case and that he could possibly be able to play,” Annacone told ATPTour.com. “Once that happened we approached every day working smart and hoping he could play. There is always a risk, but you listen to advice and weigh the pros and cons, and sometimes great things happen - sometimes they don’t .

“There are no sure things. I give Taylor credit for some very diligent work with the physio and medical team to get him on court at Wimbledon.”

Now that Fritz is back, he can fully concentrate on his tennis, which was his main concern heading into the tournament. The American will face countryman Steve Johnson in the second round.

“I just did everything possible, because I had this goal set in my mind that I was going to play here,” Fritz said. “It’s awesome to do it.”

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From Lessons Learned In 2016, Djokovic Gears Up For Shot At 2021 Grand Slam

Just like five years ago, Novak Djokovic is halfway to the calendar-year Grand Slam, having lifted the Australian Open and Roland Garros titles this season.

But this time around, the Serbian superstar is hoping to use the experience of losing to Sam Querrey in the 2016 Wimbledon third round to his advantage.

Speaking after his 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 second-round victory over 2018 finalist Kevin Anderson on Wednesday, the World No. 1 admitted, “I'm going to try to learn from the experience that I had in 2016, winning the first two [Grand] Slams of the year, coming in here… actually feeling great, playing great. But then I lost the third round against of course a great opponent, Sam Querrey, who was the better player that day.

“I felt a little bit different, maybe a little bit deflated… It was the first time I experienced that kind of situation and circumstances. So this time I’m probably, I would like to think, a bit wiser and a bit more experienced as a player and person.”

Djokovic, who has compiled a 29-3 match record in 2021, insists he is very pleased with the way he has played in victories this week over British wild card Jack Draper and former World No. 5 Anderson at the All England Club.

“It's only two matches into the tournament [and] still a long way to go,” said Djokovic, who has captured five titles at The Championships, Wimbledon. “Hopefully, I can go very deep in the tournament. That's the goal.”

Over the course of the fortnight, the 34-year-old is attempting to win seven straight matches and draw level with both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal on 20 major singles trophies. He has been No. 1 in the FedEx ATP Rankings for a record 327 weeks over five different stints, since first rising to the summit on 4 July 2011.

“I look to peak at the biggest tournaments in our sport,” said Djokovic. “I've said it before: at this stage of my career, Grand Slams are the ones that matter the most. Of course, [Masters] 1000 events on the ATP Tour [and] I try to maintain the high position in the rankings.”

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When asked about the future, Djokovic added, “Age is just a number. That's really how I see it, the approach that I'm having. I don't really think about how many years I have been on the Tour. It's all about perception. I really believe that a lot of things health-wise, or just in general about life, starts from your mind. Mind over matter type of thing.

“I feel like I'm also learning new things about myself on and off the court. I'm trying to implement different elements in my game and also in my lifestyle that help me to have longevity. Because I want to keep on going.

“I don't have any end in mind in terms of how many more years I want to play. As long as I feel that desire, as long as I'm fit, I'll keep on going.”

American Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver of Australia (1962 and 1969) are the only two male players to have completed the calendar-year singles Grand Slam in the sport's history. Australians Jack Crawford (1933) and Lew Hoad (1956) both won the first three majors of the year, but lost at the US Championships.

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Nick Kyrgios defends Benoit Paire as Wimbledon favourite explains 2021 decision

Benoit Paire has hit the headlines this year for his opposition and attitude towards the Covid-secure bubble on the ATP Tour.

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Wimbledon respond to Andy Murray criticism after Serena Williams withdraws with injury

Andy Murray has criticised the surface on centre court after two players were forced to retire on day two of Wimbledon 2021.

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Roger Federer receives fresh Wimbledon boost without even playing on Wednesday

Roger Federer was given a walkover into the second round after Adrian Mannarino retired from their Wimbledon match on Tuesday.

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Daniil Medvedev makes defiant Novak Djokovic vow as Russian star eyes Wimbledon glory

Novak Djokovic's position as world No 1 could be under threat if Daniil Medvedev reaches this year's Wimbledon final.

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Tim Henman makes Andy Murray Wimbledon prediction with cautious warning to British star

Andy Murray is back in action in the second round of Wimbledon today against Oscar Otte.

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John Isner becomes latest victim on Wimbledon courts with nasty slip on tricky surface

Players at Wimbledon this week have been struggling to keep their footing on the slippery surface.

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Berrettini Hits 47 Winners To Begin Wimbledon Bid

Seventh-seeded Italian Matteo Berrettini began his campaign at The Championships on Wednesday with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, 6-0 victory over Guido Pella of Argentina in two hours and 16 minutes.

It wasn’t always easy for Berrettini, who two weeks ago became the first cinch Championships debutant to lift the trophy at The Queen’s Club since Boris Becker in 1985.

The 25-year-old struck 47 winners, including 20 aces, and won 45 of 54 first-service points against Pella on No. 3 Court to set up a second-round clash against Dutch lucky loser Botic Van De Zandschulp.

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Berrettini clinched the first break of the match with a backhand pass in the fifth game, then secured the 37-minute opener with his seventh ace. But Pella responded by mixing up his service placement and gained a 3-2 lead in the second set with a volley winner at close quarters.

Once Berrettini struck a backhand past Pella at the net to take the third set, the Italian ran through the 24-minute fourth set for the loss of 10 points.

Berrettini, who also captured the Serbia Open title in Belgrade (d. Karatsev) and reached his first ATP Masters 1000 final at the Mutua Madrid Open (l. to Zverev), is now 27-6 on the 2021 season. He is currently in seventh position in the FedEx ATP Race To Turin for a place at the Nitto ATP Finals, to be held from 14-21 November.

Van De Zandschulp hit 52 winners for his second Grand Slam match win. The 25-year-old beat French qualifier Gregoire Barrere 6-2, 6-7(4), 6-1, 7-6(3) in two hours and 40 minutes.

Berrettini's compatriot, 26th seed Fabio Fognini, will take on Laslo Djere of Serbia later on Wednesday for a place in the third round. Djere beat Fognini 6-3, 6-7(2), 6-1 in the Gonet Geneva Open second round.

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Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Nick Kyrgios have all made damning verdict on Wimbledon

Wimbledon has been full of drama through the first two days with Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Nick Kyrgios all in action.

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Serena Williams releases 'heartbroken' statement after injury forces Wimbledon withdrawal

Serena Williams was unable to complete her first-round match against Aliaksandra Sasnovich on Tuesday afternoon.

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Wimbledon schedule: Day three order of play as Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray in action

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray are the headline acts on day three of Wimbledon.

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Preview: Djokovic, Murray Shining Bright At Rainy Wimbledon

After two days of persistent rain, Day 3 at The Championships promises to be a hectic affair as first-round action continues and second rounds get underway at Wimbledon. Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray will hope to bring some rays of sunshine to fans as they headline the Centre Court schedule. 

Djokovic, the top seed and two-time defending champion, will face a familiar foe in the second round as he meets Kevin Anderson in the first match of the day. It will be the pair’s 12th tour-level match, with Djokovic going into the encounter with a 9-2 lead in their FedEx ATP Head2Head.

Two of their most memorable meetings took place at the All England Club. In 2015, Anderson  pushed eventual champion Djokovic to 6-7(6), 6-7(6), 6-1, 6-4, 7-5 in their Round of 16 battle, the only time in the tournament that Djokovic dropped sets before the final (d. Federer).

And of course three years later, they met on the biggest stage as they contested the 2018 championship match at Wimbledon. That time, Djokovic swept past the South African 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(3) to claim the title. 

“In the big moments and on the centre courts, he’s been there so many times. He has a lot of confidence and comfort in those situations as well,” Anderson said of facing Djokovic again on Centre Court. “And of course he’s a fighter. I’ve played some matches with him where it’s been really close and he is always not giving anything [away]. 

“It’s not going to be easy, but I’m definitely looking forward to the challenge.”

[TENNIS POINT]

Later in the day, two-time former champion Murray will close out Centre Court action as he faces German qualifier Oscar Otte, who is making his main draw debut at Wimbledon.  

Murray was tested in his opening match, but managed to win in four sets as he upset 24th seed Nikoloz Basilashvili in his first Wimbledon singles match since 2017. The resilient Brit sent a clear message after the victory: 

“I keep getting asked, 'Is this going to be my last Wimbledon, last match?' I don't know why I keep getting asked about it,” Murray said on court. “No, I'm going to keep playing. I want to play... I can still play at the highest level. He's ranked 28th in the world and I haven't hardly played any matches and I beat him.”

 

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Also in action, fifth seed Andrey Rublev will take on Lloyd Harris on Court 18 as he seeks to reach the third round at Wimbledon for the first time. Frances Tiafoe, fresh off an upset over third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, will be in action on Court 5 as he hopes to keep the momentum going against Vasek Pospisil.

Elsewhere at the All England Club, there are five first-round singles matches to finish and 21 that have yet to start as second round action gets underway.

Gael Monfils, the 13th seed, will hope to get the job done as he leads Christopher O'Connell 4-6, 6-2, 7-6(5), 4-6, 3-2 in a rain-affected first-round encounter that is now entering its third day. Monfils got back on even terms at 4-6, 6-2 before darkness halted play on Monday, and managed two and a half more sets on Tuesday before matches were suspended due to rain.

View Wednesday's Schedule | Listen To Radio Wimbledon | List Of Broadcasters (PDF)

Tournament organisers have also announced that men’s doubles, which was set to start on Wednesday, will not be scheduled for Day 3. The matches will be shortened from best-of-five sets to best-of-three sets for first and second rounds. 

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Kyrgios & Humbert Locked In Fifth Set, To Be Continued Wednesday

Nick Kyrgios is back. But fans will have to wait one more day to see if he will reach the second round at Wimbledon.

The inimitable 26-year-old has shown little rust after missing four months while staying home in Australia. But he has some work left to do against 21st seed Ugo Humbert, with their match suspended due to curfew at 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 6-1, 3-3 after two hours and 43 minutes.

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The pair met in the second round of this year’s Australian Open, where Kyrgios saved two match points against the lefty en route to a five-set victory after three hours and 25 minutes. This clash has been equally entertaining, with both men showing superb shotmaking while playing to the No.1 Court crowd.

^{Photo Credit: AFP/Getty Images}
Humbert won his first ATP 500 title just two weeks ago on grass in Halle, where he defeated Top 10 stars Alexander Zverev and Andrey Rublev en route to the title. In 2019, on his tournament debut, the Frenchman advanced to the fourth round at SW19.

Kyrgios, a 2014 quarter-finalist at Wimbledon, has made it to at least the Round of 16 at the grass-court major in three of his six previous appearances.

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Venus Excited For Kyrgios Partnership

There have been many intriguing storylines so far at Wimbledon, but one that has gained plenty of attention is the mixed doubles partnership of Venus Williams and Nick Kyrgios.

The legendary American and always-entertaining Australian are sure to be a fun and fascinating team to watch. The 41-year-old described her eagerness to play with Kyrgios, with this tournament being the first time the two will have partnered.

“I think that we're playing together because we both respect each other's games," Williams said. “I think that's first and foremost. I'm looking forward to the experience.”

Kyrgios displayed his enthusiastic support for his partner on Twitter during her first-round match against Mihaela Buzărnescu, whom she beat in dramatic fashion in three sets.

Let’s go partner @Venuseswilliams 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🌱🌱🌱🌱🥺🥺🥺

 

— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 29, 2021

So how will the pair complement each other on court? “I think we're both big servers. We're both really good returners. We both can come up with shots," Williams said. "The intangibles are there. Hopefully it will mesh.”

Venus Williams is one of the most successful players in the history of the Championships, having won five women’s singles titles and six women’s doubles titles at Wimbledon. However, she is yet to win the mixed doubles crown, something she will be hoping to change this year alongside Kyrgios.

While keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats is often a key component of the Kyrgios game in both singles and doubles, the American is adamant that winning will be the main priority.

“Obviously if I have experience to share, I'm always willing to do that with anyone who might ask me," Williams said. “That's always a given. I'm always open for that. This is not my goal this pairing. I'm hoping we just play well together.”

Expect nothing less than box-office action when Williams and Kyrgios take the court together.

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Murray's Documentary Made Otte Cry; Now They Play At Wimbledon

Oscar Otte has never played Andy Murray. But when they walk on Centre Court Wednesday for their second-round match at Wimbledon, the German will bring plenty of respect for the former World No. 1, and not just because of his tennis achievements.

“He’s huge in tennis. When I watched his documentary when it came out, I was actually crying,” Otte said. “It was so emotional and so inspiring. I'm probably talking for other players, too. He's just a huge icon in the sport.”

“Andy Murray: Resurfacing” was released in 2019, and it detailed the Scot’s gruelling journey back from hip resurfacing surgery and the lengths to which the three-time Grand Slam champion went to continue his career. The emotional intensity of the documentary caught Otte’s attention.

“Of course it's difficult to perform [at a] high level with surgeries like this, but everybody knows he's one of the best tennis players ever. And when he gets in control of his body, I think everybody knows he can still beat the top guys and [go] far in tournaments,” Otte said. “I'm actually not really surprised. He has a big team behind him, physios, everything. I think they are taking very good care of him, and he's just an unreal athlete and one of the best ever.”

 

The 27-year-old is competing in his first Wimbledon main draw. He has previously played the Roland Garros main draw three times. This year in Paris, Otte won the first two sets of his first-round match against Alexander Zverev, before ultimately falling in five sets. He said: “The first two-and-a-half sets were probably the best sets of my whole life. I was playing unreal."

“With my ranking, you don't have the option to have big matches like this [often],” Otte said. “I’m just really looking forward for the whole day tomorrow.”

The World No. 151 made the most of his debut at SW19 by beating Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-7(5), 13-12(2) across Monday and Tuesday. After completing his victory, Otte did not realise he had won. But when the chair umpire announced he had triumphed, the German showed plenty of emotions.

“I actually thought it was going to 10. I don't know why. I was talking with my coach before the match, and we were both saying in case it goes up to 12-All, it's a [Match] Tie-break,” Otte said. “I actually didn't realise as I was pretty shocked when I heard ‘game, set, match, Otte.’ Better this way around than the other way around, for sure.”

It was just the second men’s singles match at Wimbledon to go to a Match Tie-break after Novak Djokovic defeated Roger Federer in the 2019 final.

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The 27-year-old will hope to summon his best as he tries to reach the third round at a major for the first time. Otte knows this is a big moment in his career.

“[It] will be a pretty big match tomorrow. The crowd probably won't be on my side, but that's okay for me, of course,” Otte said. “I have my coach here, my girlfriend I think can be enough, but we will see. In general, he’s an inspiring athlete and I'm really happy to have a chance to play against him tomorrow.”

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Federer's Empathy For Mannarino, Joy For Swiss Euros Triumph

Roger Federer showed mixed emotions after he claimed his first victory at Wimbledon on Tuesday. The eight-time former champion, who has not lost in the first round here since 2003, improved to 102-13 at the All England Club with his victory over Adrian Mannarino. 

But it was far from the triumphant return Federer would have imagined. After taking the first set, 2019 finalist Federer found himself in danger on Centre Court as the Frenchman took the second and third. Just as Federer was working his way back in the fourth set, Mannarino took an unfortunate slip behind the baseline and was eventually unable to continue. 

Federer advanced 6-4, 6-7(3), 3-6, 6-2 after his opponent retired with a knee injury. The sixth seed, who is working his way back to form after undergoing knee surgeries last year, sympathised with Mannarino in his post-match press conference.

“It was just a terrible ending, one I don't like to see,” he said. “I don't know, I just felt really down, especially with everything I went through with my knee. That was his knee, as well. I hope he's not out for a long time. 

“I don't know. I just felt like it was really a bad ending. But okay, that's how it goes sometimes. I just hope he is not out for long.”

Despite the unfortunate ending, Federer was quick to find the positives after a battling four sets on Centre Court. He gave a candid assessment of his performance after being tested by the experienced French player before ultimately clearing the first-round hurdle. 

 

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“Up until that point, I had a solid first two sets serving,” Federer said. “I wish I could have gotten more into his service games like in previous times when I played him. Somehow it wasn't possible. I think it also had something to do with maybe being the first round here and him doing a good job.

“I think I was maybe turning things around a little bit. I would have been interested to see if I get through that fourth set normally. I was going to be able to change my game, the points, the way they were created nicely. That would have given me options going into the fifth. Then again, who knows.”  

Federer was also keen to give a shoutout to his country’s football team after they advanced to the quarter-finals of the European Championships. 

The sixth seed admitted that he doesn’t often watch football matches – apart from his beloved FC Basel – but he was glued to the screen like any other fan as the Swiss side defeated the world champions France 5-4 after a dramatic penalty shootout.

Großartig 👏 👏 mega fight
Mit Herz 🇨🇭 🇨🇭
Und jetzt Viertelfinal 🚀🚀🚀

— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) June 28, 2021

“I just thought they fought super well. With the situation of being up 1-0, missing the penalty, then everything changing within half an hour, it would have been so easy just to let go,” he said. “I was really proud of the way they fought.

"It just shows in sports, in football in particular, when the team pulls together, really believes that they can do it, that you can move mountains really. They did that yesterday against a team we know was one of the favourites to win. 

“Of course, penalty shootouts are so brutal. Obviously [you are] on the edge of your seat. That was me, too.”

Federer will next play Richard Gasquet as he seeks a record-extending ninth Gentlemen’s Singles Trophy. He leads the Frenchman 18-2 in their ATP Head2Head (3-0 on grass courts).

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Venus Excited For Kyrgios Partnership

There have been many intriguing storylines so far at Wimbledon, but one that has gained plenty of attention is the mixed doubles partnership of Venus Williams and Nick Kyrgios.

Despite being an unlikely pairing, the legendary American and always-entertaining Australian are sure to be a fun and fascinating team to watch. Williams described her eagerness to play with Kyrgios, with this tournament being the first time the two will have played alongside each other.

“I think that we're playing together because we both respect each other's games,” Williams said. “I think that's first and foremost. I'm looking forward to the experience.”

Kyrgios displayed his enthusiastic support for his partner on Twitter during her first round match against Mihaela Buzărnescu, which she won in dramatic fashion in three sets.

Let’s go partner @Venuseswilliams 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🌱🌱🌱🌱🥺🥺🥺

— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 29, 2021

So how will the pair complement each other on court? Williams had her say following her victory on Tuesday, insisting that they have the games to put up a strong showing.

“I think we're both big servers. We're both really good returners. We both can come up with shots. The intangibles are there. Hopefully it will mesh.”

Venus Williams is one of the most successful players in the history of the Championships, having won five women’s singles titles and six women’s doubles titles at Wimbledon. However, she is yet to win the mixed doubles crown, something she will be hoping to change this year alongside Kyrgios.

While keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats is often a key component of the Kyrgios game in both singles and doubles, Williams is adamant that winning will be the main priority.

“Obviously if I have experience to share, I'm always willing to do that with anyone who might ask me,” Williams said. “That's always a given. I'm always open for that. This is not my goal this pairing. I'm hoping we just play well together.”

Expect nothing less than box-office action when Williams and Kyrgios take the court together!

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Slo-Foe? Foe-Slo? Tiafoe, Stephens Bond Over Wimbledon Success

Frances Tiafoe and WTA star Sloane Stephens have both endured significant highs and challenging lows in their careers over the past three years.

At Wimbledon, the good times have returned. Former US Open champion Stephens upset two-time Wimbledon champion and 10th seed Petra Kvitova, while Tiafoe upended third seed Stefanos Tsistipas.

Bonded by difficulty and resurgence, Tiafoe says that the pair celebrated their respective victories - albeit virtually - after their opening-round wins at the All England Club Monday.

“Me and Sloane were actually messaging, literally about that [the highs and lows]. I was so hyped for her. I'm a guy, I don't know if you guys follow my social, but I'm a guy who if someone is doing well, I always show the love,” Tiafoe said. “Seeing her do so well in Paris, I loved it. She hasn't done something like that in a while.

“Herself and then people forget, this girl won a slam, made finals of another one, won a Masters Series. She's one of the best girls on tour arguably when she's fully there. There's no gimmick. This is a fact.”

Tiafoe, No. 57 in the FedEx ATP Rankings, overcame third seed Tsitispas on Monday 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 to earn his first win over a Top 5-ranked player. Having lost in the first round at the Australian Open and Roland Garros last year, he can relate to Stephens when results don’t go well.

 

 

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“You start doubting yourself. It's amazing how you win a couple of matches, everything is all forgotten,” Tiafoe admitted. “I think ultimately, it's understanding that it's not always peaches and cream. Everyone is going through certain struggles.

“You don't even know what these guys are going through maybe personally, whatever the case may be. It's not easy to always be playing at your top level. It's just managing the highs and lows, but always understanding that you're a baller, you're capable. She's so capable.”

Stephens defeated 10th seed Kvitova 6-3, 6-4 on Centre Court to advance on Monday. Tiafoe revealed they had joked with each other about advancing before their wins.

“I saw her today right before, she was coming up, I was going to practice. I was just like, 'Sloane, I back you to win today. I'm not even worried about it',” Tiafoe smiled. “She's cracking up laughing. She's like, 'You better do the same thing'. I was like, 'Hey, don't worry about it'.”

 

“We're great friends. First thing I came off, seeing if she won. That made me even happier. I'm happy for both of us.”

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Nick Kyrgios rages at Wimbledon grass vs Ugo Humbert - 'Stop cutting it so f***ing short'

Nick Kyrgios was unhappy with the Wimbledon conditions during his first-round match with Ugo Humbert on Tuesday night.

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What's Djokovic's Secret Weapon? Anderson's Answer Might Surprise...

Three years ago, Kevin Anderson played Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final. Now, the South African will face the World No. 1 in the second round at the All England Club.

It is a tough draw for the former World No. 5, who is battling back to top form after dealing with injuries. He knows that playing the 19-time Grand Slam champion will be a difficult challenge.

“Of course in the big moments and on the centre courts, he’s been there so many times. He has a lot of confidence and comfort in those situations as well,” Anderson said. “And of course he’s a fighter. I’ve played some matches with him where it’s been really close and he is always not giving anything [away]. It’s not going to be easy, but I’m definitely looking forward to the challenge.”

View Anderson-Djokovic ATP Head2Head

Anderson has played the Serbian star 11 times, winning twice. This will be their fourth clash at Wimbledon, including the 2018 championship match. On that occasion, Anderson felt he was gaining inroads at the end of the match, but was unable to force a fourth set.

One thing that the grass helps Djokovic with is his serve. On Monday, the 34-year-old struck 25 aces against Jack Draper, the second-most he has hit in his career following the 26 he crushed at this year’s Australian Open against Frances Tiafoe. Anderson will not be surprised if Djokovic delivers another good serving performance against him.

“He really hits his spots well,” Anderson said. “I don’t think too many people necessarily think of that, but I feel like he’s always been a tough server to return against.”

At his best, Anderson was one of the best servers on the ATP Tour. His rocket-like delivery and booming groundstrokes made the South African a tough opponent for everyone on the Tour. But the 35-year-old has struggled with injuries over the past couple of years, most notably undergoing right knee surgeries in September 2019 and February 2020.

“Obviously it’s been a very difficult couple of years. But right now, I played four sets today and the body felt really good. There are always little bits and pieces… for the most part, nothing major, which is great,” Anderson said after beating Marcelo Tomas Barrios Vera on Monday. “I was really pleased with today’s performance. It’s been a tough past few weeks for me on the grass, a few losses in a row. [It was nice] to turn that around, and I thought there were a ton of positives today, so I’m really happy about that.”

^{Photo Credit: Rogers Cup}
The World No. 102 is resilient. When he had his biggest stretch of success from 2017-19, it came after recovering from injuries. Despite going through a tough period, Anderson’s resolve remains the same.

“Honestly, there have been a few times where I feel like it’s been challenging and frustrating, but any time when I had any uncertainty about continuing or not, I think it was more about just the frustration coming through,” Anderson said. “I never felt in my heart that I was done playing and certainly when the time comes to stop, it’s going to be on my own terms.

“The desire has always been there, which is great. I still love playing and as long as I still feel this way, I’m going to keep going.”

For now, Anderson will be fully focused on Djokovic. Although the Serbian has been impressive in 2021, the big right-hander will walk on court with confidence.

“I think one of the biggest things is that self-belief. I think a lot of those [top] guys often win matches before they’ve even stepped out onto the court,” Anderson said. “I feel like I’ve got a lot of experience, I’ve played these guys before. I know what it takes, so I’m certainly going to have belief in myself. That’s what you need.

“I also think at the end of the day, [it’s about] just approaching it like another tennis match. Just really focusing on what you can do, what you can control. That’s ultimately going to be what I’m most focused on, regardless of who is on the other side of the net. I know that’s when I play my best tennis and when I play my best tennis that’s when I’m going to give myself the best chance [to win].”

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