Novak Djokovic started his preparations for Wimbledon on Monday, practicing on Court No 1 with world No 1 Jannik Sinner. The 39-year-old, seeking a record 25th grand slam title, worked through movement exercises and sparring sessions at Aorangi Park, also training with Marin Cilic.
Djokovic's Quest for History
Djokovic, the seventh seed, aims to become the oldest grand slam singles champion in history. His 2026 season has shown both brilliance and fragility: he defeated Sinner in a five-set Australian Open semi-final but lost to Carlos Alcaraz in the final. Since then, he has struggled with injuries, playing only one match between February and May, losing to Jack Draper at Indian Wells and Dino Prizmic in Rome. At the French Open, he led by two sets against João Fonseca but lost in five sets.
Keeping his body healthy over two grueling weeks is his greatest challenge. His Australian Open run was aided by a retirement and a walkover, conserving energy. Wimbledon's grass courts, with shorter points, suit his aggressive, serve-and-volley style, reducing physical strain.
Sinner's Redemption Bid
Defending champion Jannik Sinner enters Wimbledon after a dominant clay season, sweeping the Monte Carlo, Madrid, and Rome Masters 1000s. However, he suffered a shocking second-round collapse at the French Open, losing to Juan Manuel Cerúndolo after leading by two sets and 5-1 in the third. Sinner said he spent weeks after Paris undergoing tests to address physical frailties.
Sinner will try to bounce back a year after defeating Alcaraz to win his first Wimbledon title. The absence of two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz due to a right-wrist injury leaves an opportunity for others. Djokovic and Sinner are drawn in the same half, potentially meeting in the semi-finals.
Opportunities in the Draw
Matteo Berrettini is the only other player in the bottom half to have reached a Wimbledon final. Players like Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, Alex de Minaur, Flavio Cobolli, Jakub Mensik, and Arthur Fils hope to capitalize on the open field. With Alcaraz absent, the tournament is wide open.
