Tennis World

Wimbledon video,Roger Federer Moments

2009-07-07T00:49:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer Moments -- Around the Post

federer always is the best of all time.see his great ness in tennis.he now above Sampras .

Wimbledon news,Federer interviewed for his grand Slam

2009-07-07T00:46:00.000-07:00

Federer interviewed for his grand Slam

Roger Federer won 15th Grand Slam Tennis of Wimbledon Final 2009 ! It's always a pleasure watching Roger's interview. He's so humble and down to earth off court even he's already such a history maker and record breaker as a great sportsman. Hope he will play for as long as he can . There may be many new talented tennis player but I simply cant imagine what tennis will be like without such an elegant player. FEDERER we LOVE you!

Tennis final,Tennis Legends React To Roger Federer

2009-07-05T23:31:00.000-07:00

Tennis Legends React To Roger Federer

Pete Sampras,Rod Laver,Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe React to The wimbledon final 2009

Roger Federer admitted he had surprised himself by breaking Pete Sampras's record of 14 Grand Slam titles.

The 27-year-old claimed his 15th after winning a marathon Wimbledon final against Andy Roddick on Sunday.

Tennis highlights,Roger Federer Vs Andy Roddick Highlight

2009-07-05T23:29:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer Vs Andy Roddick Highlight

Roger Federer admitted he had surprised himself by breaking Pete Sampras's record of 14 Grand Slam titles.

The 27-year-old claimed his 15th after winning a marathon Wimbledon final against Andy Roddick on Sunday.

"It's staggering that I've been able to play so well for so many years, staying injury free," said Federer, who came through 16-14 in the final set.

"For me to be the player I am now, I'm surprised. I didn't expect it. I never thought I could be this consistent."

Tennis highlights,Federer win breaks Sampras record

2009-07-05T23:27:00.000-07:00

Federer win breaks Sampras record

Roger Federer became the greatest player in Grand Slam history as he beat Andy Roddick in five dramatic sets for a sixth Wimbledon and 15th major title.

The Swiss won 5-7 7-6 (8-6) 7-6 (7-5) 3-6 16-14 to surpass Pete Sampras's 14 Grand Slam wins and regain the title he lost to Rafael Nadal last year.

And Sampras was back at Wimbledon for the first time since 2002 to watch from the Royal Box as Federer made history.

Federer, 27, will now return to the top of the world rankings ahead of Nadal.

But he had to dig deep against an in-form Roddick, who had four points for a two-set lead and then battled back to force an epic fifth set as the match became the longest men's singles final ever in terms of games played.

Federer lost 9-7 in the fifth to Nadal 12 months ago, but this year's final set alone lasted 95 minutes and with 30 games was considerably longer than the previous Grand Slam record of 11-9 in the fifth set at the 1927 French Open.

It's not one of those goals you set as a little boy but it's been quite a career and quite a month

Roger Federer

"Andy played unbelievable," Federer told BBC Sport, adding: "It feels great. It was a crazy match with an unbelievable end and my head's still spinning, but it's an unbelievable moment in my career."

Federer, who claimed a first French Open title last month, has now won Wimbledon six times, the US Open five times, the Australian Open three times and Roland Garros once.

Sampras was the last man to set a new mark in Grand Slams when he beat Pat Rafter in an emotional final at Wimbledon in 2000, and the American chose to return to the All England Club to witness Federer's achievement.

GRAND SLAM TITLES

15 - Roger Federer

14 - Pete Sampras

12 - Roy Emerson

11 - Rod Laver

11 - Bjorn Borg

10 - Bill Tilden

8 - Ken Rosewall

8 - Ivan Lendl

8 - Andre Agassi

8 - Jimmy Connors

8 - Fred Perry

The 37-year-old arrived to applause during the changeover after the third game and, with his wife, took his seat alongside Manuel Santana, Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg and Ilie Nastase.

With so many tennis greats on hand, Roddick appeared to be very much the support act as Federer attempted to make history, but the American has been a rejuvenated force this year and played one of his best ever matches in beating British hope Andy Murray in the semi-finals.

He went into the final having won just two of his previous 18 matches against Federer, but with the confidence of having arguably the world's best serve and a new variety to his game brought out by coach Larry Stefanki.

Both men started strongly on serve but it was the Swiss who put the pressure on first, forcing four break points in a tense game at 5-5.

Federer hails 'unbelievable' moment

Federer was twice denied by Hawkeye, while Roddick saved two break points with trademark heavy serves, and the five-time champion was quickly made to regret the missed chances.

Moments later he was under pressure as he leaked a forehand into the tramlines to give Roddick a set point from seemingly nowhere, and when the Swiss made the same mistake in the following rally the American's supporters were on their feet applauding as their man took a shock lead.

The second set followed the same pattern, with neither player able to fashion a break point and Roddick now making 80% of his first serves.

It came down to a tie-break and, knowing his title hopes were under serious threat, Federer made a nervous forehand error to hand over the mini-break before the Roddick serve took over, sweeping the American to 6-2 and four set points.

An imperious Federer backhand and two service winners cut the deficit before Roddick had a chance on his own serve, but he put a high backhand volley well wide.

I just want to say congratulations to Roger, he deserves everything he gets

Andy Roddick

Federer fired a cross-court backhand pass to win a fifth straight point and earn a set point for himself, and Roddick pushed a backhand well over the baseline to bring Federer level at one-set all.

It was a body blow for the American and he headed straight to the locker room on the changeover before marching to the wrong end on his return to Centre Court.

Roddick's head cleared sufficiently for him to get a foothold in the third set and he saved a break point in game five with a serve.

The 26-year-old could win only two points on the Federer serve throughout the set but he forced another tie-break, and a chance to amend for the disaster of the second set.

A backhand approach into the net gave Federer the mini-break though and, although Roddick did well to close the gap to 6-5, the Swiss converted his third set point with a thumping forehand.

Defeated Roddick hopes for Wimbledon title

If anyone thought that the smooth coronation of Federer was now back on track, Roddick had other ideas, playing a magnificent volley at 2-1 to earn two break points and taking the second with a backhand pass that Federer could not handle.

Roddick served out valiantly from 0-30 in game nine, thrilling the Centre Court crowd who were about to enjoy a fifth set that few had expected to see.

Federer had the first chance at a break in the decider but again Roddick served his way out of trouble, and the Swiss had still not broken his opponent after nearly three hours.

Both men appeared to be getting stronger and stronger and they were well and truly in the groove on serve, with Federer ahead in the ace count as the fifth set rolled on.

Federer is the greatest ever - Sampras

Roddick made his move at 8-8, firing a spectacular backhand winner down the line for 15-40, but five-time champion Federer responded magnificently with a service winner and a nerveless drive-volley.

The set became the longest in a men's singles final when Federer fired three aces in a row to move ahead 13-12, and Roddick began to look the more tired - but he refused to yield until the 30th game of the set.

The American looped a forehand long at deuce, and when he did the same on championship point Federer had his first service break of the day - and a historic victory after four hours and 17 minutes that takes him to the top of the Grand Slam list.

"It's not one of those goals you set as a little boy but it's been quite a career and quite a month," said Federer.

"This is not why I'm playing tennis, to break records, and this doesn't mean I'm going to stop playing tennis. I hope to come back for many years."

Roddick told the crowd: "I'm one of the lucky few who gets cheered for, so thank you for that. I just want to say congratulations to Roger, he deserves everything he gets, so well done Roger."

And looking up to the Royal Box, he told compatriot Sampras: "I tried, sorry Pete."

Tennis highlights,Federer vs Roddick

2009-07-05T09:08:00.000-07:00

Federer vs Roddick Wimbledon tennis highlights

final match between them.Federer won that match against Roddick very passionately.which was a very good game to watch.see this highlights and enjoy the moment to federer won other Wimbledon Tennis tournament when nadal was not around hahahahahah,,,,,,,,

Tennis live,Federer vs Roddick live

2009-07-04T20:20:00.000-07:00

Federer vs Roddick live streaming Tennis

Wimbledon Final

WIMBLEDON MEN'S SINGLES FINAL

Date: 5 July Start: 1400 BST (UK time)

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Tennis highlights,Serena vs Venus Williams

2009-07-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

Serena vs Venus Williams final Wimbledon highlights

Wimbledon-Serena captures third Wimbledon title
Serena Williams won her third Wimbledon singles title with a 7-6 6-2 win over elder sister Venus Williams in the final on Saturday.
Venus Williams VS Serena Williams Wimbledon 2009 Final 14 july live stream broadcast day of America USA Highlights Watch Here
It was the 27-year-old Americans 11th grand slam singles triumph.
Serena Williams beats sister Venus to claim Wimbledon singles ladies' title for the third time.

Tennis news,Serena ended her sister

2009-07-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

Serena ended her sister recent dominance

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Serena served magnificently to see off her sister on Centre Court

By Piers Newbery
BBC Sport at Wimbledon

Serena Williams ended her sister's recent dominance at Wimbledon with a straight-sets victory over Venus that gave her a third Wimbledon title.

The 27-year-old won 7-6 (7-3) 6-2 to regain the title she won in 2002 and 2003, and end five-time champion Venus's hopes of a third straight win.

It was the fourth time the sisters had met in a Wimbledon final.

Serena has now won 11 Grand Slam titles and holds the Wimbledon, Australian and US Open crowns.

After a brief rain shower, Saturday's final began on time and in bright sunshine on Centre Court, ruling out any need for the retractable roof to be used.

I feel like I shouldn't be holding the trophy, like I'm holding Venus's trophy

Serena Williams

The sisters went into the match with a 10-10 record, but with five titles to Serena's two and having powered through the draw without dropping a set, Venus began as a marginal favourite.

However, the defending champion was still wearing the heavy strapping on her left leg that she had repeatedly insisted was not an issue throughout the fortnight.

Early matches between the pair were often disappointing as nerves and sibling concern took the edge off two usually fearsome competitors, but recent matches had been better, notably last year's Wimbledon final.

This latest contest was dominated by serve, and Serena was the first to falter in game eight when a forehand into the net brought up 15-40 and two break points for Venus.

Serena 'blessed' by Wimbledon triumph

Serena powered down a huge second serve to save the first and Venus went long with an attempted pass on the second as the chance disappeared.

With both players winning around 90% of the points on their first serve it was no surprise that the opening set came down to a tie-break, and it was Serena who got the early advantage with a sweeping forehand winner to change around at 4-2.

A thumping Serena cross-court forehand then left Venus sprawled on the grass behind the baseline and she took the set with a beautiful backhand lob, celebrating with a scream and a fist pump that illustrated just how much she wanted to regain the title.

It was not until the 19th game that Serena finally earned a first break point as Venus suddenly began to struggle on serve, and the elder sister handed over the initiative with a tame double-fault.

Whether it was the leg injury, fatigue or just nerves, the champion's serve had completely deserted her and two games later she slipped to 30-40 and match point, but Serena hooked a forehand return into the tramlines.

She then played an unusually tame forehand with the open court gaping on her second championship point, and Venus saved a third with a solid smash.

Loss has not set in yet - Venus

But at the fourth time of asking Serena finally regained the title after six years when her sister netted a backhand, the new champion falling to her knees in celebration after one hour 27 minutes.

It is the eighth time in 10 years that a Williams sister has lifted the Venus Rosewater Dish.

"It feels so amazing, I'm so blessed," Serena told BBC Sport. "I feel like I shouldn't be holding the trophy, like I'm holding Venus's trophy.

"It's named for Venus and she always wins, so it hasn't settled in I won yet."

Venus said: "Today she was too good, she had an answer for everything. She played the best tennis today so congratulations. I don't think the loss has set in yet because I'm still smiling.

"I've had so many great times here and of course I'm looking forward to next year and the doubles final later. I love what I do and most of all I love playing these finals."

Tennis live,Venus Williams vs Serena Williams live

2009-07-03T17:29:00.000-07:00

Venus Williams vs Serena Williams live Wimbledon

Final Tennis match in Wimbledon Tennis

Wimbledon WTA Slam (GBR) - Grass, Final. Best of 3 sets.

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Venus Williams	VS	Serena Williams

On Court Jul 4 2009 13:15 GMT

Tennis live,Andy Roddick vs Andy Murray live

2009-07-03T01:48:00.000-07:00

Andy Roddick vs Andy Murray live Wimbledon

Tennis Semi Final match Today

On Court Jul 3 2009 14:30 GMT

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(6)Andy Roddick	VS	(3)Andy Murray

On Court Jul 3 2009 14:30 GMT View/Add Your Insight for this match

Tennis live,Federer Vs Haas live streaming Wimbledon

2009-07-03T01:44:00.000-07:00

Federer Vs Haas live streaming Wimbledon

Tennis Semi Finals

Wimbledon GS (GBR) - Grass, Semi Final. Best of 5 sets.

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On Court Jul 3 2009 12:10 GMT

(24)Tommy Haas	VS	(2)Roger Federer

On Court Jul 3 2009 12:10 GMT View/Add Your Insight for this match

Tennis,Andy Roddick vs Lleyton Hewitt

2009-07-01T23:28:00.000-07:00

Andy Roddick vs Lleyton Hewitt SEmi final highlights where Roddick blown away Hewitt and that was a good played by Roddick.Andy Roddick (USA) defeated Lleyton Hewitt (AUS) in Wimbledon 2009 Quarterfinals by 6-3, 6-7, 7-6, 4-6 y 6-4.

Here's the break point (9th game of final set) and final game (10th of final set) with great match point.Super Quizzy's video shows the final game of Roddick againts Hewitt 2009 wimbledon what a match, and what great shots of the sexy wives of both players..Will Roddick Beat Murray next????????

Tennis,Federer vs Karlovic Wimbledon highlights

2009-07-01T23:20:00.000-07:00

Federer vs Karlovic Wimbledon highlights tennis highlights of july 1 7 o9.which was a ggreat game to see ,A tennis match between Federer and Ivo Karlovic. Roger Federer beats Ivo Karlovic to enter his 21st straight semifinal in the Grand Slam tournaments. Federer is looking really strong going through Wimbledon and With Nadal out of the picture due to injury, who is going to step up and beat the number 2 seed.

Tennis live,Serena Williams Vs Elena Dementieva live streaming

2009-07-01T21:17:00.000-07:00

Serena Williams Vs Elena Dementieva live

Wimbledon Tennis live match

Wimbledon WTA Slam (GBR) - Grass, Semi Final. Best of 3 sets.

On Court Jul 2 2009 12:10 GMT

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(4)Elena Dementieva	VS	(2)Serena Williams

On Court Jul 2 2009 12:10 GMT

Tennis live,Dinara Safina vs Venus Williams live

2009-07-01T21:05:00.000-07:00

Dinara Safina vs Venus Williams live Wimbledon Tennis

Semi Final match live Streaming on pc

Wimbledon WTA Slam (GBR) - Grass, Semi Final.

Best of 3 sets.

On Court Jul 2 2009 13:30 GMT

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(1)Dinara Safina	VS	(3)Venus Williams

On Court Jul 2 2009 13:30 GMT

Tennis live,Hewitt Vs Roddick live streaming

2009-06-30T22:37:00.000-07:00

Hewitt Vs Roddick live streaming Wimbledon Tennis

Date / Time:	Jul 01/ 2009- 14:30 GMT
Competition:	Wimbledon GS (GBR) - Grass, Quarter Final. Best of 5 sets..
Live / Repeat:	Live

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Tennis live,Andy Murray Vs Juan Carlos Ferrero live streaming

2009-06-30T22:34:00.000-07:00

Andy Murray Vs Juan Carlos Ferrero live streaming

Date / Time:	Jul 01/ 2009- 14:30 GMT
Competition:	Wimbledon GS (GBR) - Grass, Quarter Final. Best of 5 sets..
Live / Repeat:	Live

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---------------------------VS----------------------

Tennis live,Haas Vs Djokovic live streaming free

2009-06-30T22:30:00.000-07:00

Haas Vs Djokovic live streaming free

---------------------------VS----------------------

Date / Time:	Jul 01/ 2009- 12:10 GMT
Competition:	Wimbledon GS (GBR) - Grass, Quarter Final. Best of 5 sets..
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Tennis live,Karlovic Vs Federer live streaming free

2009-06-30T22:24:00.000-07:00

Karlovic Vs Federer live streaming free

---------------------------VS----------------------

Date / Time:	Jul 01/ 2009- 12:10 GMT
Competition:	Wimbledon GS (GBR) - Grass, Quarter Final. Best of 5 sets..

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Tennis,Rampant Serena crushes Azarenka

2009-06-30T17:35:00.000-07:00

Rampant Serena crushes Azarenka

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Serena Williams remains on course for a meeting with sister Venus in Saturday's Wimbledon final after sweeping aside Victoria Azarenka 6-2 6-3.

The second seed will face Elena Dementieva in the semi-finals after a typically powerful display.

Williams made one error as she raced through the first set, and although the second set was more closely fought, she came through in one hour 13 minutes.

Dementieva had earlier thrashed Italian Francesca Schiavone 6-2 6-2.

Venus, the five-time champion, is favourite to defend her title this year, but Serena has been in ferocious form and, like her sister, is yet to drop a set, but she still sees room for improvement.

"I think my game is in a good state. I am definitely satisfied," she said.

Serena excited by Wimbledon progress

"I think I could still serve a little better and return a little better and just stay in the match the whole way.

"Hopefully I'll be able to do that within the next match, and hopefully a match after that."

Azarenka, the 19-year-old from Belarus, had also impressed on the way to her first Wimbledon quarter-final, but she was no match for a ruthless Serena.

The American hammered 13 winners and just that one unforced error in a near-perfect first set, breaking twice to wrap it up in 26 minutes.

Serena's first serve percentage dropped at the start of the second, and that opened the door for Azarenka.

The teenager capitalised, breaking serve for the first time when Serena netted a forehand in the fifth game.

But the setback only seemed to fire up Serena, the two-time champion roaring her delight when a brutal return onto the baseline forced Azarenka to go wide at break point in the very next game.

The Belarusian, who stunned Serena in their last meeting at Miami earlier this year, did not win another game.

Her fourth double fault handed Serena the break and a 5-3 lead and the American served out to love.

"She was striking the ball so hard and so good," said Azarenka.

"She didn't give me many opportunities, you know. She really showed the unbeatable Serena today, I guess."

Next up for Serena is fourth seed Dementieva, who is also yet to drop a set at Wimbledon.

She reached the last four for the second year in a row with a routine win over surprise semi-finalist Francesca Schiavone.

"It was a tough match despite the score," insisted the Russian.

"The weather conditions were tough today so I'm glad to go through. I was trying to play very aggressive and make it as quick as possible because it is very hot out there.

"I am sure it will be a tough challenge for me against Serena, as she likes to play on grass. But I just want to give myself another try."

Tennis,Safina sets up Venus semi-final

2009-06-30T17:34:00.000-07:00

Safina sets up Venus semi-final

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Fiery Safina fights back to reach semi-finals

World number one Dinara Safina fought back to beat unseeded 19-year-old German Sabine Lisicki and reach the semi-finals at Wimbledon.

The Russian won 6-7 (5-7) 6-4 6-1 in soaring temperatures on Centre Court.

She will next face defending champion Venus Williams, who thrashed Agnieszka Radwanska 6-1 6-2 despite some heavy strapping on her knee.

Serena Williams overpowered Victoria Azarenka and will face Elena Dementieva in the other semi-final on Friday.

Dementieva, the fourth seed, power through with a 6-2 6-2 thrashing of Italian Francesca Schiavone.

Safina went into the first semi-final on Centre Court as the favourite against Lisicki, but the Russian had never previously been past the third round and has been no great fan of grass in the past.

Mental toughness was key - Safina

Lisicki, on other hand, was far deeper into uncharted territory having only once before made the third round at a Grand Slam.

However, the German was on a high after beating ninth seed Caroline Wozniacki in the previous round and she broke serve first in the semi-final when Safina double-faulted in game three.

Lisicki was serving beautifully as she moved 5-3 clear, saving a couple of break points in game four, but the nerves took hold and she was pegged back to a tie-break.

Again it was the German who took the initiative but she looked in trouble when two set points went begging, until Safina handed over a woeful double-fault on the third.

The frustrated Russian was warned for racquet abuse early in the second set but she regained her composure to break for 4-3 and served out, saving a break-back point in the process.

A tense final set looked to be on the cards but Safina dominated, breaking twice in a row and holding her nerve during a lengthy medical time-out as Lisicki received treatment on her calf.

606: DEBATE

Can Safina beat Venus?

The 23-year-old broke once again for a victory that keeps her on track to end he Grand Slam drought, but she will need to improve drastically on the 15 double faults she gave up.

"I think I was Santa Claus serving so many double faults," said Safina. "On the practice court I don't serve a single one.

"The serve is there, I just have to put the brain there. I know what I have to do, I'm just not doing it.

"I was hanging in there. I was tough mentally, I think that was the key."

Lisicki said: "I just went out there to fight. I gave it all I had, but she was physically fitter than me."

Venus Williams wasted little time in seeing off the 11th seed Radwanska.

Venus dreaming of all-Williams final

The American, 29, had too much power and athleticism as she won in 68 minutes on Court One.

The champion clambered all over the Radwanska serve from the start and, despite some valiant scrambling from the Pole, Williams converted her fourth break point to go 2-0 clear.

Within 18 minutes the American was 5-0 up and when Radwanska, 20, did get on the board it only provided temporary relief, and the chance for the crowd to finally get involved, before Williams wrapped up the set in 28 minutes with an ace.

Radwanska looked to be coping better with the pace at the start of the second but it still came as a shock when she got to 0-40 in game two and converted her first chance to break.

It was hardly a crisis for Williams, however, and she broke twice in succession before firing a magnificent cross-court backhand winner to get to 5-2, and sealed victory soon after with a huge forehand into the corner.

"She plays the ball so low and so fast, I'm happy to get through," Williams told BBC Sport.

Do I feel invincible? I'd like to say yes, but I really do work at it

Venus Williams

"I'm in the semi-finals of Wimbledon, it's where I want to be and I'm looking to go further."

Asked about a possible final against her sister, she added: "That would be fantastic, it's what Serena and I want, but we still have to play well and bring our best tennis to the the court."

The sisters, the only two Grand Slam winners left in the women's field, have dominated Wimbledon in recent years, with Venus winning five singles titles and Serena two.

"Do I feel invincible? I'd like to say yes, but I really do work at it. To close these matches out takes a lot of work," said Venus.

"We are definitely the front-runners in tennis as far as being some of the best players out there.

"I just think that the style of game that Serena and I play, that particular style, we play better than the other women."

Radwanska admitted that in hot, fast conditions, it was almost impossible to defeat Venus.

"She was serving and hitting the ball so strongly. Her game is so powerful, it was very hard to do anything on the court," she said.

"It's so hard to break her when she's serving at 120mph. Venus and Serena are so different to other opponents."

Tennis video,Roger Federer Defeats Robin Soderling

2009-06-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer Defeats Robin Soderling

(6.29.09) -- Full highlights of Federer's [2] straight-sets victory over Robin Soderling [13] at Wimbledon.

Federer won the match by the scores of 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-5).

Federer now moves on to face Croatian Ivo Karlovic [22] in the Quarterfinals.

Tennis,Federer happy to win 'serving contest'

2009-06-29T08:52:00.000-07:00

Federer happy to win 'serving contest'

After his straight-sets win against big-serving Robin Soderling, Roger Federer says the lack of rallies in the game made it hard to assess the level of his performance.

Tennis,Djokovic storms into last eight

2009-06-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Djokovic storms into last eight

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Djokovic will hope to avenge his defeat to Haas in the Halle final this month

World number four Novak Djokovic produced a professional display to overcome plucky Israeli Dudi Sela and reach the quarter-finals of Wimbledon.

The Serbian rarely had to produce his best tennis despite Sela's best efforts, though he was broken twice.

However, he broke Sela's serve seven times in reply to win 6-2 6-4 6-1.

He will now face Tommy Haas after the German 24th seed reached Wimbledon's quarter-finals for the first time with a straight-sets win over Igor Andreev.

The 31-year-old held his nerve in a first-set tie break, before a break of serve in each of the next two sets earned him a 7-6 (10-8) 6-4 6-4 win.

Haas, the oldest player left in the men's draw, showed superb timing off both wings to wear down Andreev.

The Djokovic-Haas quarter-final match-up is a repeat of the Halle tournament final last month, won by the German.

Tennis,Federer sweeps into quarter-final

2009-06-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

Federer sweeps into quarter-final

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Five-time champion Roger Federer was in sublime form on Centre Court as he defeated Robin Soderling 6-4 7-6 (7-5) 7-6 (7-5) to reach the quarter-finals.

Soderling, who lost to Federer in the French Open final, played well, but the second seed was simply a class above.

After Federer broke once to take the first set, Soderling conceded only three points on serve in the second, but still lost it on a tie-break.

And Federer edged another hard-fought tie-break to advance in straight sets.

He will play the winner of a later match between Fernando Verdasco and Ivo Karlovic in Wednesday's quarter-finals.

Federer, chasing a record 15th Grand Slam title, felt it was hard to judge his form in a big-serving contest against Soderling.

Federer happy to win 'serving contest'

"I think today was just a serving contest, not too many rallies," he told BBC Sport.

"Today was hard to get through. Robin served great, thank goodness he served a double fault at the end of the tie-break because otherwise it could have been four sets."

Soderling has now played 11 matches against Federer and lost every one, and there was little in Monday's match to offer him any encouragement that he may one day break that miserable run.

"Every time I go on court, I believe I can win. I always believe in myself," he said. "I think I'm getting closer. I played better today than the last couple of times. I think I deserved a better ending today."

The Swede rocketed to attention at Roland Garros when he knocked out four-time defending champion Rafa Nadal and went on to reach his maiden Grand Slam final.

To his great credit, the 24-year-old has maintained that form on the grass, dropping two sets on his way to the fourth round here.

He served well, hit his groundstrokes with precision, and had some success at the net too.

Yet all this merely pushed Federer into producing his very best.

faltered for the first time, his forehand letting him down.

The Swede saved two break points, but hit another forehand into the net on the third and Federer served out with ease.

Soderling, if anything, improved in the second set, winning his first three service games to love - but crucially, Federer's serve was also proving impregnable.

The tie-break was closely-fought, Soderling pegging Federer back to 5-5 from 5-3 but then overcooking a forehand at 6-5 to give the Swiss a two-set lead.

Soderling refused to crumble in the third, and even engineered a first break point of the match at 4-4, but despite having a look at a second serve, the Swede netted his return.

There was more hope for the 13th seed in the tie-break.

He was two serves away from taking the third set at 5-4 but Federer produced the the sort of miraculous forehand winner that took him to five consecutive Wimbledon titles, and the 13th seed then double-faulted to give Federer match point.

Soderling went wide with his return and the world number two came through in a minute under two hours.

Tennis,Venus and Serena reach last eight

2009-06-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

Venus and Serena reach last eight

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

The Williams sisters remain on course to meet in the final

Venus and Serena Williams both eased into the Wimbledon quarter-finals with victories over Ana Ivanovic and Daniela Hantuchova respectively.

Defending champion Venus was leading 6-1 1-0 when Ivanovic retired with a groin problem after lengthy treatment.

The American third seed will now play Agnieszka Radwanska, who beat 17-year-old qualifier Melanie Oudin 6-4 7-5.

Serena beat Daniela Hantuchova 6-3 6-1 and will play Victoria Azarenka after she overcame Nadia Petrova.

There was a shock on Court Four, however, as Danish ninth seed Caroline Wozniacki crashed out to Sabine Lisicki of Germany.

Wozniacki - many people's tip to go far in the women's draw - succumbed to a single break in each set to go down 6-4 6-4 and miss out on a quarter-final match-up against number one seed Dinara Safina or Amelie Mauresmo.

The Dane had her chances, but failed to convert any of her six break-point opportunities as Lisicki, the world number 41 who accounted for French Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova in the third round, held her nerve to see the match home.

Fourth seed Elena Dementieva was a 6-1 6-3 winner against fellow Russian Elena Vesnina at a scorching SW19.

Dementieva attacked from the outset and raced into a 5-0 lead before serving out the set for the loss of only one game.

Tearful Ivanovic retires

Vesnina, 22, who had never previously reached the fourth round, rallied at the start of the second set but was broken at 2-2 and then again at 5-3 as Dementieva wrapped up a 69-minute victory.

The 27-year-old, a semi-finalist in 2008, will meet Virginie Razzano or Francesca Schiavone for a place in the last four.

Venus,who is now on an 18-match winning streak at Wimbledon, looked well on course for victory before a tearful Ivanovic succumbed to injury.

She raced through the opening set and has now won 30 consecutive sets at Wimbledon, a run that dates back to her third-round match against Akiko Morigami in 2007.

Highlights - Dementieva reaches last eight

Number 13 seed Ivanovic, the 2008 French Open champion, called the trainer as she battled to hold her serve in the first game of the second.

The 21-year-old Serb had her left thigh taped up but was clearly hampered and, although she went on to win the game, she retired at the change of ends.

"I think she was in a lot of pain," said Venus, who is bidding to become the first woman to win three successive Wimbledon singles titles since Steffi Graf between 1991-1993.

"I'm one of those players who only pays attention to what's going on on my side of the net. But I felt really sad for her actually. She was really upset.

"This is Wimbledon. It's the last place you want to have an injury that you can't overcome."

An all-Williams final remains possible after two-time champion Serena cruised past Hantuchova in just 56 minutes on Court Two.

Highlights - Azarenka battles into last four

The number two seed looked strong in the early stages of the opening set and found herself a break up in game four thanks to a double fault from her Slovakian opponent.

But Serena struggled in her next service game and Hantuchova, a former Wimbledon quarter-finalist, immediately claimed the break back with a perfect backhand.

The arrival of Williams' family, who had been on Court One watching Venus, seemed to give the second seed a lift, though, and some huge forehands saw her break once more in game six.

Another break quickly followed to bring an end to the first set, with world number 32 Hantuchova unable to find an answer to Serena's powerful groundstrokes.

Serena was now in control and raced into a 4-0 lead in the second set, making it seven games on the trot.

Hantuchova managed to get on the scoreboard in game five but it was too little too late for the Slovakian, who had wilted under the pressure.

Serena also held serve and then broke again in game seven when Hantuchova sent a forehand wide to clinch the win and a last eight spot.

There she will meet the number eight seed Azarenka after the Belarussian claimed a 7-6 (7-5) 2-6 6-3 win against 10th seed Petrova.

Azarenka had already won the opening set on a tie-break when she lost her discipline in the second.

The 19-year-old, unhappy with a line call, accused the umpire of "ruining the game" before going over to sarcastically shake the hand of the line judge.

Azarenka's tantrum occurred at 4-2 down in the second set as she struggled to get on top of Petrova's game and went on to lose the set.

But in a one-sided final set on Court Three, Azarenka's class eventually told and she game through powerfully to win.

Tennis,Murray targets quarter-final spot

2009-06-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Murray targets quarter-final spot

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Murray has been in superb form in the first week at SW19

World number three Andy Murray says he is ready to raise his performance level another notch as he heads into the second week at Wimbledon.

After an easy win over Viktor Troicki, he faces Stanislas Wawrinka in the last 16 on Monday - third on Centre Court.

"I think I'm able to raise my game to the quality of the opponent," he said. "I'll try to do that on Monday.

"The media expectation hasn't troubled me this week. I'd be very surprised if it did next week."

Murray's performances during the first week have only increased hopes that he might become the first British man since 1938 to reach the Wimbledon final.

His route to Sunday's showpiece may have become a little less treacherous with the defeat of 10th seed Fernando Gonzalez, a potential quarter-final opponent, by Juan Carlos Ferrero.

Henman reflects on Murray's Wimbledon progress

However, the 22-year-old maintains he is not looking beyond Monday's encounter with Swiss 19th seed Wawrinka, who he has beaten in four of their seven previous matches.

"Obviously, I'd love to get to the final, but you think about it more three or four months before the tournament," he said.

"I'm concentrating on Stan and trying to get through the next match.

"He's a very solid all-court player. He's got a solid serve, moves well and is good off the baseline. He does everything good. He doesn't have one shot which is a huge weakness."

Ferrero's reward for knocking out Gonzalez in five sets is a meeting with eighth seed Gilles Simon on Monday, when all 16 fourth round matches in the men's and women's draws are played.

Despite Murray's form, Roger Federer remains the title favourite.

The 27-year-old, chasing his sixth title at SW19 and a record 15th Grand Slam crown, faces Robin Soderling on Monday in the first match on Centre Court at 1300 BST.

The pair last met in the French Open final, which Federer won in straight sets to take his record against the Swede to 10-0.

"What stands out to me is that I've beaten him so many times that it gives me an incredible amount of confidence, knowing that if I do play my game well, I should be fine," said Federer.

"But you never know. That's why I have to be very careful."

If Federer gets past Soderling, awaiting him will be Ivo Karlovic, who has served 102 aces in his three matches so far, or Spain's seventh seed Fernando Verdasco.

Federer's possible semi-final opponent is fourth seed Novak Djokovic, who is up against Israeli surprise package Dudi Sela on Monday.

The Serb has barely merited a mention as a title contender, but he says he is happy for it to stay that way.

"Andy Murray and Roger Federer are in the spotlight, and obviously they deserve to be in that situation because they have been playing great tennis the last six, seven months," he said after cruising past Mardy Fish in the last round.

"But you have to look from the brighter side. I think it's good. It releases the pressure for me."

Venus had few problems in reaching the fourth round

In the women's draw, Venus Williams will continue her bid for a sixth Wimbledon title when she takes on Ana Ivanovic. They are first on Court One at 1300.

Ivanovic, the former world number one, has shown signs of a resurgence after losing her way over the last year, but Venus will nonetheless be a strong favourite.

"I'm very excited," said former world number one Ivanovic.

"She's a very dangerous opponent, but I think I have a great chance, and I feel very comfortable going in that match. I'm so excited to have opportunity for that challenge."

Venus's sister Serena is up against Daniela Hantuchova - who is looking to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2002 - second on Court Two.

"She's such a smooth player," said Serena of her unseeded Slovakian opponent.

"I have to make sure I don't rush myself because she is playing well and I think she's moving well. So I'm going to have to really bring a tough game."

Second on Centre Court, top seed Dinara Safina will meet 2006 champion Amelie Mauresmo in her first fourth-round appearance at Wimbledon.

"She's playing very good. I think she's back in her best shape," said the Russian.

"She likes playing on grass. I mean, she won Wimbledon. So I think it's going to be not an easy match. So I'm looking forward. I just want to focus on myself, play my game."

tennis,Wimbledon Tennis 2009 Update after Week

2009-06-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

Wimbledon Tennis 2009 Update after Week

here is the result after 1 week of wimbledon tennis tournament and so u can hope for the best for ur superstar in tennis and as we all know sharapova out of this tournament that why wimbledon gonna be so unpredictable so watch out and keep in touch with the news og my blog

Tennis,Murray magic lifts Wimbledon title hopes

2009-06-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

Murray magic lifts Wimbledon title hopes

Andy Murray ratcheted the home crowd's expectation up another notch after beating Viktor Troicki on Centre Court..

Tennis,Jelena Jankovic vs Melanie Oudin

2009-06-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

Wimbledon '09 - Jelena Jankovic vs Melanie Oudin - Third Round

Highlights from the third round match between Jelean Jankovic and Melanie Oudin at Wimbledon 2009.

Tennis,Svetlana Kuznetsova vs Sabine Lisicki

2009-06-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

Highlights from the third round match between Svetlana Kuznetsova and Sabine Lisicki at Wimbledon 2009.

Tennis,Andy Murray vs Viktor Troicki Third Round

2009-06-28T09:04:00.000-07:00

Highlights of the 3rd Round match between Andy Murray and Viktor Troicki on the 27th June 2009. I'll continue to upload Wimbledon videos when I can so feel free to subscribe etc

Just to say that any offensive comments will be removed. I don't mind criticism, but there's no need for any swear words or out like that. It's only tennis!!

Tennis,Davydenko falls victim to Berdych

2009-06-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

Davydenko falls victim to Berdych

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Number 20 seed Tomas Berdych produced a a powerful performance to crush Russia's Nikolay Davydenko 6-2 6-3 6-2 and make Wimbledon's fourth round.

Davydenko had won all of the pair's previous eight meetings, but could not cope with the variety of the Czech's serve and power of his ground strokes.

In another upset tenth seed Fernando Gonzalez fell to Juan Carlos Ferrero.

Meanwhile Tommy Haas clinched an epic five-set victory over Marin Cilic and Andy Roddick beat Jurgen Melzer.

Berdych, who beat Britain's Alex Bogdanovic in the first round, wobbled briefly in the closing stages of the match.

But 12th seed Davydenko could not take advantage and his unimpressive Wimbledon record, where he has never been beyond the fourth round, continues.

Former world number one Ferrero defied his current ranking of 70 to take a thrilling Court One encounter 4-6 7-5 6-4 4-6 6-4.

The Spaniard faced down eight of the ten break points Gonzalez had against him, including three in the deciding set.

As Gonzalez served to stay in the match in the tenth game, Ferrero forced his way to match point and saw the pressure tell as the Chilean sent a second serve long.

Haas' match with Cilic had been stopped at 6-6 in the decider at 2133 BST on Friday and it was the German number 24 who stole ahead after the resumption to seize victory 7-5 7-5 1-6 6-7 (3-7) 10-8.

Cilic's powerful first serve delivered 26 aces through the match for the 11th seed but fatally faltered as the fifth wore on to allow Haas into the fourth round.

Haas goes on to play Russian Igor Andreev, while Jurgen Melzer or Andy Roddick now await the 23-year-old Berdych.

After coming through four-and-a-half hours of drama over two days, 31-year-old Haas said: "I don't know why they don't have lights here.

"I have never stopped a match a 6-6 before in the final set. It's tough to come back but I'm happy to get through.

"I think they should be like the US Open and have a tie-break in the final set. I could hardly get out of bed today, but the adrenaline took over."

Another thrilling encounter to resume following the late-night drama on Friday night was 29th seed Andreev against Italian Andreas Seppi.

Andreev led overnight by two sets to one with the fourth set tied at 5-5, and the Russian wasted little time in coming through a tie-break 7-5 to secure the victory.

Meanwhile Roddick produced another powerful display by beating Jurgen Melzer 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (7-2) 4-6 6-3 in the second match on Centre Court.

Predictably serve dominated with no breaks until Melzer took Roddick's serve in the fifth game of the third set.

Roddick broke in the fourth game of the fourth set and although Melzer hit straight back the sixth seed broke back immediately and went on to win it.

I need to improve in week two - Roddick

Afterwards the American told BBC Sport: "He served so well today and is such a good player especially on grass. I was lucky to get through there in that fourth set.

"I have room for improvement and I would like to break serve a little bit more.

"It seems I can't break until I get to the fourth set and every time I've had a bunch of break points I can't convert them and then my opponents have one and they convert it."

Dark clouds started to hover above the All England Club in the fourth set, prompting speculation that the roof would be closed over a match for the first time.

However the contest was finished without the heavens opening and Roddick added: "I was thinking let's get out of here before being one of the famous two to play under the roof for the first time. It looks beautiful but I don't want to be a part of it."

Lleyton Hewitt, who won the men's singles title in 2002, secured his place in the last 16 for the fourth year in the row with a 7-5 7-6 (7-3) 6-3 win over Germany's Philipp Petzschner.

The Australian, who is coming back to form after hip surgery last August, paid tribute to his vociferous band of supporters.

"I felt the whole crowd was really into it. It was a good atmosphere," he said.

"It is a background noise but it works perfectly for me because I can feed off them when I need to."

Hewitt will meet the Czech Republic's Radek Stepanek who overcame David Ferrer in five sets 7-5 7-5 3-6 4-6 6-4.

French number eight seed Gilles Simon reached the fourth round for the first time with a comfortable 6-2 7-5 6-2 win over Romania's Victor Hanescu.

Stanislas Wawrinka is Andy Murray's opponent in the last 16 after the Swiss number 19 seed beat the USA's Jesse Levine 5-7 7-5 6-3 6-3.

Tennis,Kuznetsova and Jankovic crash out

2009-06-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

Kuznetsova and Jankovic crash out

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Highlights - Kuznetsova stunned by Lisicki

Svetlana Kuznetsova and Jelena Jankovic were both shock casualties in the third round at Wimbledon on Saturday.

Fifth seed and French Open champion Kuznetsova was blown away 6-2 7-5 on her 24th birthday by the unseeded 19-year-old German Sabine Lisicki.

The hard-serving Lisicki broke the Russian five times and will play ninth seed Caroline Wozniacki in the last 16.

Jankovic, ranked sixth, was well beaten by 17-year-old American qualifier Melanie Oudin over three intense sets.

Lisicki delighted with 'huge' Kuznetsova scalp

Lisicki, who went out in the first round at her All England Club debut last year, passed up four other match points before a Kuznetsova backhand strayed wide to seal her victory.

It had seemed that Kuznetsova may be able to exploit Lisicki's nerves after breaking back as the world number 41 served for the match.

But the youngster recovered her poise and Kuznetsova eventually cracked after finding herself worked all around Court One.

"I just told myself to play one point at a time because I had nothing to lose," Lisicki said.

"It is a huge win for me because before I came to this Wimbledon I hadn't won a match on grass."

Oudin, world number 124 and making her first visit to Wimbledon, produced a stunning performance to upset Jankovic 6-7 (8-10) 7-5 6-2 to make the final 16.

The 24-year-old Serb seemed to be heading for a routine victory when serving at 5-4 in the opener but then the game turned on its head.

The teenage American wasted three set points during a monumental tie-break, and despite losing it 10-8, Jankovic's game slowly crumbled with her movement increasingly restricted.

An injury and medical time-out lasting nearly 12 minutes suggested she had problems and Oudin took full advantage with her ferocious forehand to win a nervy second set.

Although the 2008 US Open runner-up exhibited occasional glimpses of her power-game, the lively American, the youngest player left in the draw, never stopped chasing.

After amazingly dominating Jankovic from the baseline, she flew through the third set to secure a fully-deserved victory to set up a clash with Polish 11th seed Agnieszka Radwanska.

A thrilled Oudin said: "I think I handled it really well. I was just thinking she was any other player and this was any other match at any other tournament, not like on the biggest stage at Wimbledon playing my first top 10 player.

Not the greatest of birthday presents for Kuznetsova on Court One

"I knew I was right there with her every single point, so I knew I could do it if I just kept trying and kept fighting.

"I'm very excited right now. But I'm hoping there will be better days too."

Jankovic said she was not affected by the heat but could not recover from feeling ill during the match.

"The conditions were tough but that was not my problem," she said. "In the first set I felt really dizzy and felt like I was going to end up in the hospital. I started to shake and that I was losing my consciousness.

"I thought I was going to fall down or have to call the ambulance or leave the court but I came back and started to fell a little bit better.

"However I felt weak and did not have the power in the shots and I was not the same player.

"It was very difficult for me to play in the circumstances and it made me as well quite nervous. I tried my best but did not have enough energy to hit the shots and go after the shots."

Tennis,Davydenko falls victim to Berdych

2009-06-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

Davydenko falls victim to Berdych

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Number 20 seed Tomas Berdych produced a a powerful performance to crush Russia's Nikolay Davydenko 6-2 6-3 6-2 and make Wimbledon's fourth round.

Davydenko had won all of the pair's previous eight meetings, but struggled with the variety of the Czech's serve and power of his ground strokes.

And, despite a late wobble from Berdych, he could not fight back.

Meanwhile Tommy Haas clinched an epic five-set victory over Marin Cilic in a match delayed from Friday evening.

The players had stopped play at 6-6 in the decider, and it was the German number 24 who stole ahead after the resumption to seize victory 7-5 7-5 1-6 6-7 (3-7) 10-8.

Cilic's powerful first serve delivered 26 aces through the match for the 11th seed but fatally faltered as the fifth wore on to allow Haas into the fourth round.

Haas goes on to play Russian Igor Andreev, while Jurgen Melzer or Andy Roddick now await the 23-year-old Berdych.

After coming through four-and-a-half hours of drama over two days, 31-year-old Haas said: "I don't know why they don't have lights here.

"I have never stopped a match a 6-6 before in the final set. It's tough to come back but I'm happy to get through.

"I think they should be like the US Open and have a tie-break in the final set. I could hardly get out of bed today, but the adrenaline took over."

Another thrilling encounter to resume following the late-night drama on Friday night was 29th seed Andreev against Italian Andreas Seppi.

Andreev led overnight by two sets to one with the fourth set tied at 5-5, and the Russian wasted little time in coming through a tie-break 7-5 to secure the victory.

Tennis,Confident Venus makes round four

2009-06-27T09:08:00.000-07:00

Confident Venus makes round four

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Highlights - Venus powers into last 16

Venus Williams produced a dominant display to avenge her shock defeat to Carla Suarez Navarro at the Australian Open by beating her 6-0 6-4.

The defending champion took the first set in 33 minutes, after winning most of the baseline rallies and playing some great winners at the net.

Venus went 2-0 up in the second set before Navarro finally staged a rally by winning three successive games.

However Venus regained control and broke in game nine before serving out.

Venus set the tone for the match by breaking in the very first game and although Navarro had game points she could not convert them and failed to win a single game in the first set.

She looked to be heading for a rapid exit when the pattern continued at the start of the second set before the Spaniard finally held her serve with an ace.

Confidence surged through her and she immediately went 40-0 up on Venus' serve before taking the second of her break points.

606: DEBATE

Can Venus retain her title?

She then survived two break points to hold again and move ahead in the set but that was as good as it got.

Venus held comfortably and Navarro also held - but only after fighting off another three break points.

The writing was on the wall and after Venus held again to level at 4-4, she broke the unseeded player and quickly wrapped up the match.

Venus told BBC Sport she was delighted with her progress through the tournament so far.

Venus 'loving' first week success

"Right now I am just where I want to be and I am loving it," she said.

"I was really enjoying myself out there today. I worked on moving forward against her as she is a very fast and competitive player. She strikes the ball very well and I was happy to close it out.

"I am enjoying it so much here in the singles and the doubles. When you win at Wimbledon there is not much better than that."

Speaking about concerns over the strapping on her left knee, she added: "I love the strapping, it is very supportive and I need the support right now."

And she wasn't phased by the heat, adding with a smile: "I am a Florida girl - I needed a sweater!"

Venus now faces 13th seed Ana Ivanovic on Monday.

Tennis,Murray eyes place in second week

2009-06-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

Murray eyes place in second week

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

World number three Murray is the highest seed in his side of the draw

By Piers Newbery

Britain's Andy Murray will attempt to take his Wimbledon campaign into a second week when he plays Serbia's Viktor Troicki on Saturday.

The Scot's third-round match will be third on Centre Court, with a place in the last 16 at stake.

Murray, 22, goes into the match as the strong favourite against 30th seed Troicki, who is in the third round of a Grand Slam for only the second time.

Andy Roddick and Venus Williams are among the others playing on Saturday.

Venus faces Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro in the opening match on Centre at 1300 BST, with Roddick's third-round encounter against Jurgen Melzer to follow.

But it is Murray who will be the centre of attention again as he continues his bid to win a first Grand Slam title and become the first British man to win Wimbledon since 1936.

After a testing opening win over American Robby Kendrick, Murray was on top form in his straight-sets demolition of Ernests Gulbis in round two on Thursday.

I think if draws open up and the body feels good and I can execute that kind of style of tennis for over five sets, there's no reason why I can't put a bit of pressure on these guys

Lleyton Hewitt

The Briton made just five unforced errors and served superbly, prompting John McEnroe to say, "I can't ever recall Andy serving bigger or better. Andy showed exactly why he is number three in the world and one of the favourites for the final."

And Murray himself said: "It was very good. I served really good for the whole match, and when I did get myself into a point on his service game I made him work very hard for the points, hit some good passing shots.

"I finished points off really well, didn't make any basic errors, so it was very good."

Troicki is at a career high of 31 in the world but came through a long five-setter against Daniel Gimeno-Traver that finished late on Thursday, and is much more comfortable on hard courts than grass.

He has played Murray twice before, losing both times and winning only one game in their most recent encounter in Miami in March.

"Even in juniors he was always the top and he has improved so much in the last year," said the 23-year-old.

"He's playing great. He's one of the favourites to win it.

"I need to play aggressive, play smart, give my best and hope that I can play my best tennis. I need to believe I can win these matches against the top players."

Troicki will also have to contend with the home crowd, who did not have to help Murray a great deal against Gulbis, such was the third seed's dominance.

"At the big stages of the match, like the end of the second set, the crowd got right behind me," he said.

"When I had break points, they got noisier. A lot of my service games were quite comfortable and a lot of very short points, so I guess it would have been tough to get really, really into the match.

"There weren't that many long rallies but when I needed the support, it was always there."

One man who got vociferous backing on Thursday was 2002 champion Lleyton Hewitt, who knocked out fifth seed Juan Martin del Potro, and the Australian takes on Germany's Philipp Petzschner in Saturday's second match on Court Two.

Asked if he felt he could challenge for the title, Hewitt said: "Absolutely. I think there's been patches this year when I've played extremely well. It's taken some of the best players to beat me in the bigger tournaments.

"I think if draws open up and the body feels good and I can execute that kind of style of tennis for over five sets, there's no reason why I can't put a bit of pressure on these guys."

World number one Dinara Safina will follow Hewitt and Petzschner onto Court Two and victory over Belgian Kirsten Flipkens will take the Russian into the fourth round for the first time.

"I'm definitely feeling better this year than previous years, so hopefully this year I can go through step-by-step," she said.

Tennis news,Federer comes through first test

2009-06-26T10:03:00.000-07:00

Federer comes through first test

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Federer sees off Kohlschreiber

By Piers Newbery

Roger Federer remains the man to beat at Wimbledon after surviving his first serious test against 27th seed Philipp Kohlschreiber in the third round.

Federer, going for a sixth Wimbledon title, withstood a fightback from the German to win 6-3 6-2 6-7 (5-7) 6-1.

The threat of rain seemed the only way he might be derailed early on but there proved no need to give the Centre Court roof its debut in a competitive match.

Federer lost his rhythm in the latter stages but won in two hours 31 minutes.

Next up will be Robin Soderling, who beat Nicolas Almagro 7-6 (9-7) 6-4 6-4 to set up a repeat of the French Open final, which the Swiss won.

Federer is trying to win a record 15th Grand Slam title, and the absence of world number one and defending champion Rafael Nadal through injury means he is the favourite to do so.

Federer 'excited' about second week

On the back of finally landing a first French Open title earlier this month and so completing the set of Grand Slams, he looked completely untroubled in his first two matches at the All England Club.

And taking on Kohlschreiber was certainly not a daunting prospect for Federer, who went into the match with a 3-0 record against the German including two wins on grass in Halle.

It was no surprise when the world number two raced into an early lead but from 4-0, 40-15, the Swiss had a lapse of concentration.

Kohlschreiber recovered to get one break back, held serve and then moved to 0-30 at 4-2 down.

For Federer at Wimbledon this year it constituted a mini crisis, and he quickly regained his focus and served his way out of trouble before easing through the rest of the set.

A stunning drop volley on the stretch helped the 27-year-old break at the start of the second and by now Kohlschreiber was struggling to win points, let alone games.

Federer broke again before wrapping up the set after just 68 minutes with a sublime lob followed by two aces, and a couple of forehand winners had him a break up at the start of the third.

That appeared to be the beginning of the end for Kohlschreiber, but a few more unforced errors from Federer and the occasional blistering winner from the German made the third set a tight affair.

Kohlschreiber saw a couple of break points go begging in game four as he failed to make effective returns at the key times but made no mistake when the chance came again, levelling at 4-4 thanks in part to a net cord.

It was the German who now had the edge, moving 4-1 clear in the ensuing tie-break and soon earning two set points, the second of which he took with a rasping cross-court backhand.

Any hopes Kohlschreiber had of turning the screw receded when he double-faulted to again drop serve at the start of the fourth set but Federer was now struggling for consistency, and had to save a break-back point in the following game.

The Swiss got the security of a second break with a huge forehand pass on the run in game six but had to stave off another two break points when he served for the match, finally sealing it with a forehand winner.

Tennis news,Serena sweeps into fourth round

2009-06-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

Serena sweeps into fourth round

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

By Chris Bevan

Serena celebrates after booking her place in the fourth round

Serena Williams overcame a late wobble against Roberta Vinci to win 6-3 6-4 and reach the last 16 at Wimbledon.

The second seed, champion in 2002 and 2003, was surprisingly asked to play on the new Court Two but the unfamiliar surroundings did not affect her game.

Vinci, the world number 53 from Italy, battled gamely but simply did not have the weapons to keep Williams at bay.

Some unforced errors at 4-1 in the second set held up Williams' charge but she steadied herself to seal victory.

Playing on the outside courts is something Williams has had to get used to in recent years and she insisted playing on the smaller stage did not bother her.

"I always played on [the old] Court Two anyway," she said afterwards. "It's not a court for Roger Federer but it's a court for me - but then he has five won titles, I guess two are not enough.

"I enjoyed myself. The court had a challenge system and it worked for me. I could also get far more involved with the crowd, and I liked it."

Williams, who lost to her sister Venus in last year's final, will play unseeded Daniela Hantuchova in the fourth round, after the Slovakian beat her doubles partner Ai Sugiyama in straight sets.

Michael Jackson 'a sad loss' - Serena

She is unlikely to find it as easy against Hantuchova as she did here - with her biggest hiccup being her late arrival that kept her opponent waiting on court for almost 10 minutes past the intended start time of 12 noon.

Williams explained the delay was not deliberate and explained afterwards: "I thought someone was coming to get me. I was warming up and waiting but nobody did.

"I didn't know what to do, so in the end I just walked out there on my own."

Once play began, the American was immediately into her stride - holding serve to love, then breaking Vinci with some rasping winners from either flank.

She stumbled in the next game, allowing Vinci to break back, but quickly rediscovered her range with her thumping groundstrokes to move 3-1 ahead and from then on the first set was a formality

Williams kept up the pressure and it appeared she would quickly wrap things up when she broke twice in the second set to move 4-1 ahead.

But for the first time, errors began to creep into her game and Vinci took advantage, using her drop shot to good effect and forcing Williams to work harder for her win.

The end for Vinci eventually came after an hour and seven minutes, with Williams ending the match in the same way she began it - with an ace.

It was a useful work-out for the two-time champion, who showed signs she is close to finding her best form ahead of the second week at SW19.

Tennis news,Dementieva powers past Kulikova

2009-06-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

Dementieva powers past Kulikova

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Dementieva had few problems on a balmy Friday afternoon

Fourth seed Elena Dementieva eased into the fourth round after seeing off fellow Russian Regina Kulikova 6-1 6-2.

The reigning Olympic champion sailed through the opener and despite a break in the second set, wrapped up the win.

Eighth seed Victoria Azarenka edged out Sorana Cirstea and Nadia Petrova, 10th seed, beat Gisela Dulko in three sets.

An ankle injury forced Russia's seventh seed Vera Zvonareva to withdraw ahead of her third-round clash with France's 26th seed Virginie Razzano.

One seed to fall on Friday was Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova, world ranked 14, who lost in three tight sets to Russian Elena Vesnina 7-5 4-6 6-4.

It was tough luck on 24-year-old Zvonareva, who reached the semi-finals of this year's Australian Open.

Her enforced exit was not a big surprise. She has struggled since injuring her right ankle in April which ruled her out for eight weeks and meant she missed the French Open.

Dementieva, 26 and another star from Moscow, blew her opponent away in the first set as she conceded just one game.

After breaking at the start of the second, Dementieva was in cruise-control but Kulikova showed signs of her potential talent when she broke back to level at 1-1.

It was an effort appreciated by the Court One crowd and despite a handful of dazzling ralleys, the expected-rain was the only thing that was going to halt Dementieva's dominance and she soon served out to wrap up the win.

Dementieva, who next plays Vesnina, told BBC Sport: "I was focused and very aggressive and I am satisfied with the way I am playing.

"Even a match that finished 6-1 6-2 we had some good rallies and it was a good match to prepare for the tougher matches that are coming up.

Kulikova win was good test - Dementieva

Commenting on Kulikova, who had come through qualifying and then won two matches on her Grand Slam debut, Dementieva added: "She is a very good player. She was very impressive through the whole week.

"Maybe I was too aggressive for her and just didn't really give her a chance to play her game.

"I'm sure it was a very nervous moment for her to step on to Court One, such a big stadium, and play for the first time. I think she needs some experience for sure."

Petrova, 27, took a long to settle against the unseeded Dulko, with the elegant Argentine grabbing the first set.

However, Dulko, who dumped out Maria Sharapova in the previous round, looked increasingly tense and after losing the second set, her erratic errors proved costly, despite a valiant effort in the final game of the match.

Petrova came through winning 3-6 6-3 6-4.

Slovakian Daniela Hantuchova had few problems in seeing off Japan's Ai Sugiyama 6-4 6-3 to make the fourth round.

Tennis,Karlovic power overwhelms Tsonga

2009-06-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

Karlovic power overwhelms Tsonga

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Highlights: Karlovic sees off Tsonga

A display of raw serving power earned Ivo Karlovic a 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (5-7) 7-5 7-6 (7-5) win over France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Wimbledon's third round.

The giant Croat sent down a total of 46 aces as the ninth seed found himself comprehensively outgunned.

After trading tie-breaks, Karlovic broke in the last game of the third before seizing his second match point.

Robin Soderling beat Spain's Nicolas Almagro to advance while Fernando Verdasco overcame Albert Montanes.

Karlovic's formidable power was in early evidence as he blasted his way out of a potentially tricky situation at 0-30 down in the opening set's eighth game with four successive aces.

Frenchman Tsonga's own serve was operating well, earning him nine aces in the first set, but a single mini-break was enough to secure an early lead for his 30-year-old opponent.

The crowd rallied behind the world number nine and he levelled in similar style as the third point of the tie-break saw him snatch a rare rally on the Karlovic serve.

But a deft drop-volley from Karlovic converted the first of two break points in the closing stages of the third, and he was equally ruthless when a thin net cord deceived Tsonga and handed him the chance to take the match.

Soderling, the tournament's 13th seed, edged a lengthy tie-break in the opener before easing to a 7-6 (9-7) 6-4 6-4 victory in two hours.

The French Open finalist converted two of six break points during the match and also hit 43 winners against the 48th-ranked player.

The 24-year-old Swede will next play world number two Roger Federer who eased past Philipp Kohlschreiber.

Verdasco beats Montanes in four sets

Tennis,Baltacha bid ends in heavy defeat

2009-06-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

Baltacha bid ends in heavy defeat

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Elena Baltacha's bid to reach the third round at Wimbledon for the first time since 2002 was ended by a comprehensive 7-5 6-1 defeat by Kirsten Flipkens.

Baltacha, the last British woman left in the singles, made a promising start and broke to lead 3-1 early on.

But the 25-year-old's serve faltered and a series of errors at 5-6 let her Belgian opponent snatch the first set.

Flipkens, the world 110, is ranked four places below Baltacha but ran away with the second set to seal a crushing win.

Baltacha's defeat leaves Andy Murray - who plays Ernests Gulbis of Latvia in his second-round match later on Thursday - as the only British survivor from 11 entrants in the singles.

And, in truth, it was a disappointing exit for the Scot, who had beaten Flipkens, 23, in both of their previous meetings and was playing for a chance to take on world number one Dinara Safina.

JONATHAN OVEREND BLOG

head coach Nigel Sears says results in the grass court season haven't reflected the progress the British women have made

Initially, Baltacha's thumping serve put her on top in the blazing sunshine, while Flipkens, a former Junior Wimbledon champion, struggled to find her feet.

A succession of double-faults gave Baltacha the first break at 2-1, and she looked in confident mood as she extended her lead.

But sadly for the British fans who had packed out Court Four, Baltacha's own serve began to let her down and Flipkens was soon level at 3-3.

The first set was still wide open but, at 5-6, the British number two crumbled.

Flipkens looked unsettled by a slip and was feeling her thigh but, instead of taking advantage, Baltacha pressed the self-destruct button.

Two unforced errors - either side of a blistering forehand winner by Flipkens - handed the Belgian two set-points and, although Baltacha saved one, she put a weak forehand into the net on the next rally.

Baltacha had come back from losing the first set to beat world number 33 Alona Bondarenko in the first round but there was to be no repeat of that comeback here.

The match became completely one-sided, and Baltacha's increasingly fragile serve was broken twice as Flipkens raced 5-0 ahead in the second set.

Baltacha did save three match-points before getting on the board but it was only a temporary respite as Flipkens easily served out for the match, sinking to her knees after hitting a delicate drop-shot winner to complete her win in an hour and 17 minutes.

Tennis,Slick Venus eases past Bondarenko

2009-06-25T09:13:00.001-07:00

Slick Venus eases past Bondarenko

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Williams will face Carla Suarez Navarro in the next round

Defending champion Venus Williams breezed into the third round of Wimbledon with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Ukraine's Kateryna Bondarenko.

The American third seed showed no ill effects despite some heavy strapping on her left knee, winning in 69 minutes.

Top seed Dinara Safina overcame Rossana De Los Rios 6-3 7-5 and Svetlana Kuznetsova, seeded fifth, claimed a 6-1 6-3 win against Pauline Parmentier.

Former world number one Ana Ivanovic, seeded 13th, beat Sara Errani 7-5 6-1.

Jelena Jankovic and Amelie Mauresmo also play on Thursday.

Next up for Williams is Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro, who overcome Ekaterina Makarova 7-5 4-6 6-1.

The five-time champion pinned Bondarenko back beyond the baseline with an array of powerful ground strokes.

Host of players can challenge me - Venus

After being undone by breaks in the fifth and final games of the first set, Bondarenko defended her serve with a delicate drop-shot in the sixth game of the second that clinched the longest rally of the match.

But the 22-year-old could not conjure another winner when required two points later and Williams wrapped up her 16th successive Wimbledon win with 20 winners to her name.

"That's a great stat for me, a great achievement and I want to make it more. Everything was working for me today," said the 29-year-old.

A jovial Williams played down the knee strapping afterwards and appeared to enjoy keeping reporters guessing over exactly what had prompted her to wear it.

"It was just for support, that's all," she said. "I'll be wearing it in doubles too because it's working out.

"I really hate tape but I needed it this time and I accepted that, because this is Wimbledon."

A losing finalist at this year's Australian and French Opens, Safina has never been beyond the third round at Wimbledon.

Despite a lengthy second set, the Russian always looked in control and did not have to defend any break points as she brushed aside a player ranked 99 places below her.

Belgium's Kirsten Flipkens, who defeated Britain's Elena Baltacha earlier in the day, now stands between her and a career-best performance at SW19.

French Open champion Kuznetsova stormed past France's Parmentier, taking the opening set in 25 minutes and then breaking in the fifth game of the second.

World number 78 Parmentier threatened to hit back immediately, but could not convert from 0-30 and Kuznetsova, 23, cruised to victory.

Kuznetsova's victory could have been even more convincing had she converted more than four of the twelve break points she forced.

But a polished performance from the Russian, which included several well-judged charges to the net, will have fuelled her hopes of becoming the first women since Serena Williams in 2002 to win successive Grand Slam titles.

She was however bemused by the scheduling of some of the matches in the ladies' draw.

"They don't have to put me Centre Court, but the schedule is a little bit weird," said Kuznetsova.

"If you look at the schedule, it's not about only me. It's about Dinara Safina plays on court No. 2, Venus plays on court No. 1, and girls who are not very high-seeded, they play Centre.

Ivanovic is ranked outside the world's top 10 for the first time in two years.

"But in Wimbledon you have to expect anything. That's why I like it, because it's unpredictable."

Ivanovic struggled in her tournament opener where she was twice saw off match points against her before beating Lucie Hradecka, but looked far more comfortable after ending Errani's first-set resistance.

The Serb broke as her Italian opponent served for the opener and, after winning the next two games, repeated the trick twice more early in the second to ensure a more leisurely conclusion.

Ninth seed Caroline Wozniacki takes on Maria Kirilenko on Centre Court later today.

Polish 11th seed Agnieszka Radwanska was taken deep into a third set by China's Shuai Peng before coming through 6-2 6-7 (8-6) 9-7 on Court 14.

Australian 18th seed Sam Stosur, who reached the semi-finals of the French Open earlier this year, was also pushed hard by Germany's Tatjana Malek, but recovered from 4-1 down in the final set to win 4-6 7-6 (8-6) 6-4.

China's Na Li, seeded 19th for the tournament, enjoyed a more straightforward victory as she overcame Belarus's Olga Govortsova 6-4 6-2.

Tennis,Roddick powers into third round

2009-06-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

Roddick powers into third round

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Roddick's big serve was for the most part too much for Kunitsyn to handle

Andy Roddick booked his spot in the third round by holding off a mini-fightback from Russian Igor Kunitsyn.

The number six seed breezed through the first two sets but then let his level slip and Kunitsyn took his chance to break and clinch the third.

Roddick's more aggressive stance finally stifled the comeback to ease through the fourth set and wrap up a 6-4 6-2 4-6 6-2 win.

Gilles Simon also dropped a set but overcame Thiago Alves 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-4.

More to follow.

Tennis,Women result sheet

2009-06-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Women's Singles | All England Lawn Tennis Championships | Wimbledon, England

2nd Round

Thursday, 25 June 2009

	COUNTRY	SEED			COUNTRY	SCORE
V Williams	US	3	bt	Bondarenko	Ukr	6-3	6-2
Tie-break Scores
Kuznetsova	Rus	5	bt	Parmentier	Fra	6-1	6-3
Tie-break Scores
Safina	Rus	1	bt	De Los Rios	Par	6-3	7-5
Tie-break Scores
Flipkens	Bel		bt	Baltacha	GB	7-5	6-1
Tie-break Scores
Lisicki	Ger		bt	Mayr	Aut	6-2	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Stosur	Aus	18	bt	Malek	Ger	4-6	7-6	6-4
Tie-break Scores							(8-6)
Suarez Navarro	Spa		bt	Makarova	Rus	7-5	4-6	6-1
Tie-break Scores
Li	Chn	19	bt	Govortsova	Blr	6-4	6-2
Tie-break Scores
Radwanska	Pol	11	bt	Peng	Chn	6-2	6-7	9-7
Tie-break Scores							(6-8)
Ivanovic	Ser	13	bt	Errani	Ita	7-5	6-1
Tie-break Scores

Wednesday, 24 June 2009

	COUNTRY	SEED			COUNTRY	SEED	SCORE
Zvonareva	Rus	7	bt	Johansson	Fra		6-1	6-3
Tie-break Scores
Cirstea	Rom	28	bt	Mirza	Ind		6-4	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Bartoli	Fra	12	bt	Bacsinszky	Swi		7-5	6-1
Tie-break Scores
Dulko	Arg		bt	Sharapova	Rus	24	6-2	3-6	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Schiavone	Ita		bt	Larcher De Brito	Por		7-6	7-6
Tie-break Scores							(7-2)	(7-4)
Cibulkova	Svk	14	bt	Radwanska	Pol		6-2	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Vesnina	Rus		bt	Dushevina	Rus		6-3	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Kulikova	Rus		bt	Kleybanova	Rus	27	0-6	6-4	6-1
Tie-break Scores
Dementieva	Rus	4	bt	Rezai	Fra		6-1	6-3
Tie-break Scores
Azarenka	Blr	8	bt	Olaru	Rom		6-0	6-0
Tie-break Scores
Vinci	Ita		bt	Pavlyuchenkova	Rus	31	6-4	7-6
Tie-break Scores								(8-6)
S Williams	US	2	bt	Groth	Aus		6-2	6-1
Tie-break Scores
Razzano	Fra	26	bt	Craybas	US		6-3	6-0
Tie-break Scores
Sugiyama	Jpn		bt	Parra Santonja	Spa		7-6	6-3
Tie-break Scores							(7-5)
Hantuchova	Svk		bt	Zheng	Chn	16	6-3	7-5
Tie-break Scores
Petrova	Rus	10	bt	Peer	Isr		6-3	6-2

Tennis,Day 4 Result Mens result

2009-06-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

Men's Singles | All England Lawn Tennis Championships | Wimbledon, England

2nd Round

Thursday, 25 June 2009

	COUNTRY	SEED			COUNTRY	SEED	SCORE
Roddick	US	6	bt	Kunitsyn	Rus		6-4	6-2	3-6	6-2
Tie-break Scores
Seppi	Ita		bt	Gicquel	Fra		7-5	6-4	6-7	5-7	6-4
Tie-break Scores									(3-7)
Melzer	Aut	26	bt	Becker	Ger		7-6	6-3	7-6
Tie-break Scores							(8-6)		(7-1)
Hanescu	Rom	31	bt	Devilder	Fra		6-2	6-3	6-1
Tie-break Scores
Hewitt	Aus		bt	Del Potro	Arg	5	6-3	7-5	7-5
Tie-break Scores
Berdych	Cze	20	bt	Mathieu	Fra		6-2	6-4	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Simon	Fra	8	bt	Alves	Brz		5-7	6-3	6-4	6-4
Tie-break Scores

Wednesday, 24 June 2009

	COUNTRY	SEED			COUNTRY	SEED	SCORE
Tsonga	Fra	9	bt	Bolelli	Ita
Tie-break Scores
Soderling	Swe	13	bt	Granollers	Spa		4-6	7-6	6-4	7-5
Tie-break Scores								(9-7)
Haas	Ger	24	bt	Llodra	Fra		4-3
Tie-break Scores
Karlovic	Cro	22	bt	Darcis	Bel		7-5	6-3	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Cilic	Cro	11	bt	Querrey	US		4-6	7-6	6-3	6-7	6-4
Tie-break Scores								(7-3)		(4-7)
Robredo	Spa	15	bt	Koubek	Aut		3-6	4-6	6-4	7-6	6-1
Tie-break Scores										(7-5)
Verdasco	Spa	7	bt	Vliegen	Bel		7-6	6-7	7-6	6-4
Tie-break Scores							(7-3)	(3-7)	(7-4)
Andreev	Rus	29	bt	Spadea	US		6-3	7-5	6-2
Tie-break Scores
Montanes	Spa	32	bt	Canas	Arg		6-4	6-3	4-6	6-3
Tie-break Scores
Federer	Swi	2	bt	Garcia-Lopez	Spa		6-2	6-2	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Kohlschreiber	Ger	27	bt	Minar	Cze		6-4	3-6	4-6	6-2	8-6
Tie-break Scores
Almagro	Spa		bt	Beck	Svk		6-4	7-6	3-6	3-6	7-5
Tie-break Scores								(7-2)
Djokovic	Ser	4	bt	Greul	Ger		7-5	6-1	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Fish	US	28	bt	Tipsarevic	Ser		6-4	3-6	6-1	6-4
Tie-break Scores
Sela	Isr		bt	Schuettler	Ger	18	7-6	6-3	6-2
Tie-break Scores							(7-3)

1st Round

Wednesday, 24 June 2009

	COUNTRY	SEED			COUNTRY	SEED	SCORE
Gimeno-Traver	Spa		bt	Dent	US		7-5	7-6	4-6	6-7	6-4
Tie-break Scores								(8-6)		(3-7)

Tennis,Andy Murray calls John McEnroe

2009-06-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

highlights of the andy murray vs robert kendrick match on centre court, on the 23/06/2009 23/06/09 23rd of june 2009. BBC Sport, Tennis.

Andy Murray calls John McEnroe

Andy Murray calls into John McEnroe's 6-love-6 programme on BBC Radio 5 live, and chats to John and Tim Henman about his prospects at Wimbledon 2009.

Murry vs Kendrick match highlights, too

Tennis,Roger Federer Vs Garcia Lopez

2009-06-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

federer v lopez longest rally so far in wimbledon 2009. 24/06/2009 24/06/09 24th of june 2009 09. BBC SPORT TENNIS.Federer won that match coz he is the best in this game right now but that was a good game though and tough to won .so see by yourself this highlights,

Tennis,Superb Serena powers past Groth

2009-06-24T18:32:00.000-07:00

Superb Serena powers past Groth

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Highlights - Straight-sets win for Serena

Second seed Serena Williams booked her place in the third round of Wimbledon courtesy of a comfortable 6-2 6-1 win over Australian Jarmila Groth.

The 27-year-old utilised her power to claim the first set with ease, breaking Groth in the fourth and eighth games.

Serena broke three times to Groth's once in the second set to seal the victory in under an hour.

Fourth seeded Russian Elena Dementieva is also through after a 6-1 6-3 win over Aravane Rezai of France.

The 26-year-old's class ultimately shone through as she struck the ball much cleaner than during her first round win over Alla Kudryavtseva.

She took the first set comfortably before running into trouble early in the second as Rezai claimed a break of serve, but the Russian upped her performance and struck back to gain the anticipated straight-sets win.

The Australian Open semi-finalist next faces Regina Kulikova who beat 27th seed and fellow Russian Alisa Kleybanova 0-6 6-4 6-1.

On Court One, last year's runner-up Serena Williams was rarely troubled by 22-year-old Groth, wrapping up victory in 57 minutes.

A trademark two-handed backhand return down the line from the two-time champion earned her a break in the fourth game of the first set, with the second, and set-winning break, coming in game eight thanks largely to three double faults from Groth.

I should have won more than twice here and I didn't. Hopefully I can rectify that this year.

Serena Williams

Another two Groth double faults gave Serena a break of serve in the second game of the second set, which the American added to with a break in the fourth.

Serena, whose potential path to the final has been made easier with Maria Sharapova's defeat by Argentina's Gisela Dulko, was full of sympathy for the Russian's plight.

She said: "I'm not that player that wishes someone else loses. I feel for her being injured, because I know how hard it is to come back. She's playing really well, and I think she'll be fine."

Turning to her own chances, she added: "I should have won more than twice here - hopefully I can rectify that this year.

"I thought I played really well today. I knew she was going to be tough so I had to be ready for the match.

"For me there's always room for improvement though. I still think I could have returned better, come to the net a little bit more.

"That's exciting to think I can do better."

Highlights - Hantuchova shocks Zheng

Vera Zvonareva of Russia, the seventh seed, booked her place in round three after a straight-forward 6-1 6-3 win over France's Mathilde Johansson on Court 18.

Zvonereva will now face Virginie Razzano, the 26th seed from France, who beat American Jill Craybas 6-3 6-0.

Belarussian eighth seed Victoria Azarenka destroyed Romanian Ioana Raluca Olaru 6-0 6-0 on Court Two.

The 19-year-old dropped only six points in her six service games and will face another Romanian in the last 32, with number 28 seed Sorana Cirstea lying in wait after knocking out India's Sania Mirza 6-4 6-4.

"I guess I have a good chance now but I don't feel any pressure," said Azarenka. "It is always important to go step by step. There are still a lot of good players in the draw.

"I don't put myself in the position where I have to go as far as the quarter-finals or semi-finals. If I do better than that then that's great."

Nadia Petrova of Russia, seeded 10th, cruised into the third round, beating Israel's Shahar Peer 6-3 6-2.

606: DEBATE

Serena...too easy

HighburyGhost

Petrova broke Peer, ranked 55th in the world, in the fourth game of the first set and held comfortably.

The 27-year-old Moscovite then broke Peer twice in the second set and wrapped up victory when the Israeli sent a forehand long.

Petrova will next play Dulko following her shock 6-2 3-6 6-4 victory over Sharapova.

Marion Bartoli, the 12th seed from France was made to work hard in the first set of her match with Swiss Timea Bacsinszky before taking it, and then breezing through the second set to seal a 7-5 6-1 win.

Italian Francesca Schiavone came through a hard-fought encounter with Portugal's Michelle Larcher De Brito, winning 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (7-4) to set up a meeting with Bartoli in the next round.

China's Zheng Jie - a semi-finalist in last year's Wimbledon - was denied another memorable run this year, beaten 6-3 7-5 by Laura Robson's round one conqueror, Slovakian Daniela Hantuchova.

Zheng, seeded 16th, broke in the first game of the match but the powerful Hantuchova gave signal of her poise and resolve by breaking back to level at 3-3 before breaking again and serving out the set.

Dementieva was US and French Open runner-up in 2004

It was Hantuchova's turn to break early in the second set but this merely set in motion a see-saw tussle with numerous breaks of serve.

However, at 5-5, Hantuchova was able to break and then hold to claim victory.

Zheng admitted that her performance last year as a wild card had worked against her.

"I felt a little bit under pressure because of the semi-final last year and she (Hantuchova) played more aggressively," said Zheng.

Hantuchaova now faces a third-round clash with Japan's Ai Sugiyama, who had earlier beaten Spanish qualifier Arantxa Parra Santonja 7-6 (7-5) 6-3.

Another Slovakian through to round three is 14th seed Dominika Cibulkova who beat Urszula Radwanska of Poland 6-2 6-4.

French Open semi-finalist Cibulkova, 20, took the first set comfortably but underwent treatment from the trainer before the start of the second.

However, her mobility seemed unaffected and she left it until the 10th game of the second set to seal her victory via a break of serve, superbly wrong-footing Radwanska on match point.

In the third round, Cibulkova will face Elena Vesnina who came through an all-Russian tie with a 6-3 6-4 win over Vera Dushevina.

Tennis,Murray laments British failings

2009-06-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

Murray laments British failings

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Brit results not acceptable - Murray

Andy Murray says the depth of British tennis needs to get "way better" after nine of the home nation's 11 Wimbledon starters lost in the first round.

Only Murray himself and Elena Baltacha were left to fly the flag for Britain as the rest crashed out.

And the British number one said: "It's disappointing. The depth needs to get way better. It's not acceptable.

"But regardless of whether there are 10 Brits in or just one I'm still going to take care of my own business."

Scot Murray, 22, seeded to meet Roger Federer in the final, was taken to four sets by American Robert Kendrick on Centre Court.

Round-up - Brits struggle on Day Two

Baltacha, 25, from north London, won a fierce contest against Ukrainian Alona Bondarenko. She fell to her knees with tears in her eyes as she won the third set in front of an ecstatic crowd late in the evening, having conquered a player 73 places above her in the rankings.

BBC tennis correspondent Jonathan Overend said after Baltacha's 3-6 6-3 6-4 victory: "Had she lost, it would have been collectively the worst performance by British players in the Wimbledon Open era. The cracks are once again papered over, albeit with flimsy crepe paper."

Murray and Baltacha apart, the rest of the Brits were all reflecting on what might have been, none more so than Anne Keothavong.

The British number one has had a good season, reaching the top 50, and was expected to beat Austrian Patricia Mayr, ranked some 30 places below her.

But after dominating the opening stages of the match she missed a set point, then lost seven games in a row before surrendering tamely 7-5 6-2.

She had to take a break to compose herself when facing reporters afterwards.

In the men's draw, Alex Bogdanovic fell in straight sets to 20th seed Tomas Berdych, completing a run of eight career singles matches at Wimbledon without a win.

However, the 25-year-old stated: "I'm getting better every year. I'm confident. I just need to play a few challengers, win some matches and then I'm going to start playing more ATP qualifiers."

Despite losing, he will still cash in a cheque for £10,750, along with Keothavong, Joshua Goodall, Georgie Stoop, Katie O'Brien, Dan Evans, Mel South, Laura Robson and James Ward.

Murray does not want to think too much about British failure.

"I think when you start doing that you get distracted and you're not putting 100% focus on yourself, which is what I'm going to need to do the next couple of weeks," he added.

He next plays Latvian Ernest Gulbis in round two on Thursday, while Baltacha will bid to reach the third round for the only the second time since 2002 when taking on Kirsten Flipkens from Belgium.

Tennis,Sharapova edged out in thriller

2009-06-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

Sharapova edged out in thriller

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

By Ian Westbrook

Sharapova (left) congratulates Dulko after their marathon match

Maria Sharapova fell to a disappointing second round defeat, losing 6-2 3-6 6-4 to unseeded Gisela Dulko.

Dulko opened up a 3-0 lead and took the first set quickly and enjoyed a similar lead in the second before Sharapova began her fightback.

She won seven games in a row to level the match and lead 1-0 in the third.

Both players were broken before Dulko earned the decisive advantage in the seventh game and she broke again to win in a shade over two hours.

Dulko had no problems in the first set which she took in 35 minutes and she seemed set for a rapid victory when she was 3-0 up in the third.

Sharapova held her serve and then gained the initiative when two errors from Dulko at 3-1 gave her two break points.

She took the first one when the Argentine netted for her first break of the match and suddenly took control.

The Russian immediately produced a love service game to level the set and then broke the Argentine again to move 4-3 ahead before holding serve again to win her fifth consecutive game.

Dulko battled hard in the next game but Sharapova finally levelled the match with her fourth set point.

Sharapova rattled through her first service game of the decider to make it seven-in-a-row before Dulko finally held and then broke after successfully challenging a call to lead 2-1.

It was hard to pick the winner as Sharapova immediately hit back to break back and hold and regain the lead before Dulko held her own serve.

The crucial game was the seventh when a Sharapova double fault gave Dulko three break points. She took the first when the Russian netted to open up a 4-3 lead and then held to move within a game of victory.

Sharapova bravely held her own serve but Dulko was in control, although she showed her nerves before finally getting over the line.

She wasted four match points before Sharapova finally went long and she was able to celebrate a famous victory in two hours 13 minutes.

To beat Maria who is a past champion here is a great day for me

Gisela Dulko

The crowd gave her a standing ovation as she celebrated reaching the third round at Wimbledon for the fourth time in her career.

Afterwards the 24-year-old told BBC Sport: "That was the biggest win of my career. It has come in the most important tournament for me and to beat Maria who is a past champion here is a great day for me.

"I just didn't play very good in one game and knew the risk with these kind of players that they go through the match very quickly. She took her chance and I didn't play very well in the second set

"I was really nervous at the end and really wanted to finish there and not go to 5-5.

"The crowd was fantastic with me and I am really thankful and hope they will be there for the next match."

Sharapova was philosophical, saying: "It was unfortunate the timing of this being only my fourth tournament since the injury but that is just the way it is.

"Just being here is a wonderful accomplishment and I had the pleasure of playing on Centre Court again.

"I enjoy every single minute of this event. The losses are tough, more here than at any other tournament.

"It is tough to put the injury out of your mind completely."

Tennis,Murray pleased with 'tough' win

2009-06-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

Murray pleased with 'tough' win

Andy Murray says he knew he would have to play well to beat Robert Kendrick in the first round at Wimbledon after coming through a tough match against the American.

Tennis,Murray stays cool to win opener

2009-06-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

Murray stays cool to win opener

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Highlights - Murray wins tough opener (UK users only)

By Piers Newbery at Wimbledon

British number one Andy Murray came through a serious examination by American Robby Kendrick to win his first-round match at Wimbledon.

The Scot, seeded three, remained cool despite soaring temperatures on Centre Court and saw off the world number 76 from California 7-5 6-7 (3-7) 6-3 6-4.

Murray withstood some heavy serving and fine attacking play from Kendrick to win in two hours 37 minutes.

He will play Ernests Gulbis of Latvia, the world number 74, in round two.

"It was a tough match, you know, I expected it to be difficult," said Murray. "He served great for two-and-a-half, three sets and he made it very difficult for me.

"He played very aggressive and served a very high percentage of first serves, and I didn't return as well as I would have liked, but I was happy with the way that I served throughout."

Murray is already the centre of considerable attention after a superb 12 months that has seen him rise to number three in the world and made him a serious contender to end the 73-year wait since Fred Perry last lifted the men's singles trophy for Britain.

Murray pleased with 'tough' win

He headed into his opening match at the All England Club with a 3-0 record against Kendrick, including a 6-0 6-0 demolition in their only encounter on grass three years ago.

The 22 year-old from Dunblane immediately set about proving he was a class above Kendrick with a break in game two and he appeared to be cruising to the opening set, but from 4-2 the Briton's serve began to misfire and Kendrick's aggression started to pay dividends.

The American levelled at 4-4 when Murray double-faulted and Kendrick was just two points from taking the set at 0-30 up in game nine.

Murray fired a serve down the middle that was called out but Hawk-Eye ruled in the Scot's favour and the danger had passed, for the moment.

With the first, rather gentle, cheers of "Murray, Murray" floating around the arena, their man found his range on the backhand and had Kendrick sprawling at the net as he broke for 6-5 and then served out the set.

Murray had the first chance to break after a quiet start to the second set but Kendrick averted the crisis in game five with a bold sortie to the net.

The American's attacking style held Murray in check sufficiently to force a tie-break, and when the Briton double-faulted to trail 4-3 there was a distinct feeling of unease around Centre Court.

That turned to outright alarm when Kendrick, oozing confidence, powered through the next three points to level the match.

Kendrick's serve was the dominant factor in the match as the third set progressed and Murray needed a lift - which the man from Fresno finally handed over in game seven with a double-fault and a wayward forehand.

Murray pumped his fist and roared, as much in relief as delight, but there was more to come from Kendrick as a spectacular diving volley in game 10 gave him a break-back point.

However, he found the net at the key moment and Murray survived to wrap up an edgy set and move ahead.

Kendrick had profited from his high-risk strategy and continued to look impressive at the net but the errors began to hurt him in the fourth set, a wild forehand giving Murray a break point that the Scot converted with a backhand pass for 3-2.

One incredible over-the-shoulder winner had Murray pumping his fist again as he closed in on victory, and he took his second match point to seal victory at 7.46pm.

"I thought the atmosphere was very good, especially at the end of the match and at the end of the second set," said Murray.

"Every time I've played on Centre Court it's been good and it was what I expected."

Murray goes on to face the talented Gulbis knowing he will need to improve all-round if he is to stay on course for a first Grand Slam title.

"I need to focus on the next match, I've got a very tough opponent," he said. "He hits a huge ball and I need to be on my game to beat him."

Tennis,Safina grinds out opening victory

2009-06-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

Safina grinds out opening victory

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Safina is eyeing her third Grand Slam final this year

World number one Dinara Safina had to work hard to overcome Spain's Lourdes Dominguez Lino 7-5 6-3 as she reached the second round at Wimbledon.

The 23-year-old Russian began brightly but had to recover from 3-4 down to stumble through the opening set.

Dominguez Lino weakened in the heat, while Safina's power and accuracy improved as she wrapped up her win.

Caroline Wozniacki trailed by a set before beating Kimiko Date Krumm, while Jelena Jankovic saw off Julia Goerges.

The ninth seed Wozniacki was given a huge scare before seeing off Japan's 38-year-old Date Krumm 5-7 6-4 6-1.

Date Krumm made her Wimbledon debut in 1989, the year before Wozniacki was born, and last played on the Wimbledon turf 13 years ago as a top 10 player when she lost in the semi-finals to Steffi Graf.

She blew the ninth seed Wozniacki away to take the first set 7-5 and then led 3-1 in the next on Court Two.

Despite a few nervy serves, Wozniacki battled hard to win a tense service game and the momentum turned on its head with her opponent looking increasingly weary.

The Dane's spark had finally ignited, and after racing to a 4-1 lead in the decider, she secured an anxious victory, helped after Date Krumm was forced into an injury time-out.

Sixth seed Jankovic survived a second set wobble to finally defeat Goerges 6-4 7-6 (7-0).

The 24-year-old Serbian, who finished last year as world number one, eased to a 5-1 lead and had to overcome a Goerges fightback to take the opener 6-4.

Her German opponent served brilliantly to grab a 5-2 lead in the next and with a decider looking likely, Jankovic battled back to claim the win on a tie-break without conceding a point.

On Court One, Safina, loser in the year's first two Grand Slams in Australia and France, broke early against the athletic Dominguez Lino and raced to a 3-1 lead.

But the Spanish world number 72 broke back and edged ahead 4-3.

It was a worrying time for the Russian who has never got beyond the third round at Wimbledon, but with a combination of aggressive volleys and fine serving, Safina finally pulled through the first set 7-5.

Safina, who used an Olympic sprinter to improve her fitness ahead of the championships, continued to mix up her tactics and was able to slowly dominate the Spaniard as she eased to victory with few problems in the second set.

Tennis,Keothavong slumps to early exit

2009-06-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

Keothavong slumps to early exit

By Chris Bevan

Keothavong paid the price for losing seven games in a row

British number one Anne Keothavong saw her poor record at Wimbledon continue as she lost 7-5 6-2 to Patricia Mayr.

The world number 51, ranked 29 places above her Austrian opponent, had a set-point at 5-3 in the first set but collapsed and won only two more games.

Keothavong, 25, has now won only two matches in nine visits to SW19.

Elsewhere, fellow Briton Joshua Goodall lost 4-6 7-6 (7-5) 6-4 3-6 6-4 to Michael Llodra and debutant Dan Evans lost 6-2 6-3 6-4 to Nikolay Davydenko.

Goodall came closest to making progress, pushing Llodra all the way in a match that had begun on Monday evening.

The 23-year-old from Basingstoke, ranked 188th in the world, used his big serve to full advantage in the first set and was unlucky to lose the second in a tie-break before darkness fell.

When play resumed on Tuesday, Goodall went a break up before Llodra fought back to take the third set but he rallied to force his first five-set match.

The decider went with serve until Llodra led 5-4 and Goodall chose the worst possible time to falter, putting a backhand into the net to send the Frenchman through.

Evans never looked like causing an upset on Court Four against Davydenko, the 12th seed.

The Russian was too clever for the 19-year-old, who caused problems with his big serve but made far too many mistakes to threaten an upset.

Birmingham wildcard Evans was always playing catch-up in set one, despite clawing back from 3-0 to 3-2 down.

He led 2-0 in the second but could not hold on and was edged out in the third.

The first set lasted just 32 minutes but Evans then made a bright start to the second set, breaking after a brilliant retrieval forced an error from Davydenko.

However he was quickly broken back and the Russian wore him down to extend his lead.

A double fault and then a poor drop shot in the third set gave Davydenko a sniff of a chance at 3-3, 0-30 and he hit a superb backhand winner to break.

Davydenko has never passed the fourth round at Wimbledon

At 3-5 Evans hit another double fault at 30-30 and then put a backhand wide on match point to finish off a patchy display that saw him rarely put Davydenko under any real pressure and lose in an hour and 49 minutes.

Evans insisted the scoreline flattered his highly-ranked opponent and vowed to take heart from his defeat.

"If you look at it on paper, it's horrible for me but I think I did well out there," he said.

"Obviously I lost, which is not good, but it's good to find out what the level is."

Tennis,Del Potro and Roddick earn wins

2009-06-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

Del Potro and Roddick earn wins

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Del Potro reached the semi-finals of the French Open

Leading seeds Juan Martin del Potro and Andy Roddick sealed their places in the second round at Wimbledon on Tuesday.

Fifth seed Del Potro produced a fine display to outplay France's Arnaud Clement 6-3 6-1 6-2 and will now face former champion Lleyton Hewitt.

American Roddick, seeded sixth, dropped a set on his way to a 6-3 7-6 4-6 6-3 win over Jeremy Chardy.

Other seeds to progress were Chile's Fernando Gonzalez (10), Tommy Haas (24) Jurgen Melzer (24) and Victor Hanescu.

Thirty-first seed Hanescu was involved in the longest match of the tournament so far, edging Spain's Ivan Navarro in an epic 6-3 6-7 6-4 6-7 12-10 victory on Court Five.

Melzer had no such concerns as he swept American Wayne Odesnik aside in a 6-1 6-4 6-2 victory.

French Open semi-finalist Gonzalez also enjoyed a first-round straight sets win.

The Chilean, who beat British number one Andy Murray in the last eight at Roland Garros earlier this month, eased to a 7-5 7-5 6-3 win over Russia's Teimuraz Gabashvili.

Gonzalez will face Argentine Leonardo Mayer, who defeated Spain's Oscar Hernandez, in the next round.

German Haas, winner the Halle tournament last week, had to fight back from a set down to defeat Austria's Alexander Peya 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-4.

The most impressive performance of the day came from giant Del Potro, 20, never allowing his French opponent - a former Wimbledon quarter-finalist to settle on Centre Court.

He faces a stern second-round test against 2002 champion Hewitt, who defeated American Robbie Gnepri 6-4 6-1 6-1.

Tennis,Full Highlights of Federer v Lu

2009-06-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

Highlights of roger federer vs Lu on cnetre court wimbledon 2009. 22/06/2009 22/06/09 22nd of june 2009. Tennis.

Tennis,Venus sizzles in Wimbledon opener

2009-06-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

Venus sizzles in Wimbledon opener

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July
Coverage: BBC One, BBC Two, BBC HD, Red Button, website streaming (UK only) and text commentary, 5 Live, 5 Live Sports Extra, BBC iPlayer

By Piers Newbery at Wimbledon

Venus eyes more Wimbledon titles

Defending champion Venus Williams swept past Switzerland's Stefanie Voegele on a sun-drenched Centre Court in the first round of Wimbledon.

The 29-year-old American, who is going for a sixth singles title at the All England Club, won 6-3 6-2.

A run of 14 straight points put Williams in charge of the opening set, and she broke three times in the second to win in 74 minutes

Third seed Williams will play Kateryna Bondarenko in the second round.

Williams was never likely to be troubled by the 19-year-old world number 97, and apart from an early tumble the American's movement remained as impressive as ever on the grass.

It's a special moment when you walk back as defending champion on that court

Venus Williams

The champion was able to dominate with her heavy forehand and big serve, and Voegele struggled to keep her at bay.

There was a brief hiccup for Williams when she lost one of her breaks and was pegged pack to 5-3 but a couple of clean winners helped her see out the set.

A break to love in game three of the second set suggested the match was as good as over but Voegele battled impressively, levelling at 2-2 after taking her fourth break point of a tense game.

It was the briefest of crises for the five-time champion, however, and Williams reeled off four games in a row to set up a meeting with Bondarenko, who beat Anastasija Sevastova 6-3 7-6 (7-5).

"It was pretty straightforward," said Williams. "I really enjoyed being out there.

"You know, it's a special moment when you walk back as defending champion on that court, throw those balls up for that first point. It's a really great feeling."

And after winning five titles at the All England Club, she admitted: "If you pick one Slam to win, it's got to be this one.

"You know, I've always been in the position to win the others and have been just as far as the finals and ran into a pretty tough player, so was a little bit unlucky.

"But overall I feel like I had the game, and always have the game, to put myself in a position at any of the majors. So I have to just keep on trying."

Tennis,Blake suffers surprise early exit

2009-06-22T22:02:00.001-07:00

Blake suffers surprise early exit

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July

Highlights - Blake out after tie-break

American James Blake was the first men's seed to fall on the opening day at Wimbledon as Italian Andreas Seppi recorded a 7-5 6-4 7-6 (7-5) victory.

Blake, seeded 17, was always on the back foot after unforced errors allowed the world number 50 to take charge.

Seppi pulled clear in the second set as the Queen's Club finalist failed to convert three break points.

And despite taking a five point lead in the third set tie-break Seppi rattled off seven straight points to win.

The Italian will now face Frenchman Marc Gicquel in the second round.

Blake, who was also eliminated in the first round at the French Open last month, admitted he was frustrated to be leaving Wimbledon so early.

"I still feel like I can play with anyone in the world, but it's just for some reason lately it has been very inconsistent," said Blake.

"I know I still have the ability. It's just frustrating, because it's happening at big tournaments where I'm having my not-so-good performances."

Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga beat Andrey Golubev on Court Two, although both players were given a standing ovation after a thoroughly entertaining game on the newly-built court.

The ninth seed won the match 6-3 5-7 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-5) after being forced into tie-breaks in both of the final two sets by Golubev, the world number 73 from Kazakhstan.

However, it was ultimately the Frenchman's superior serve which made the difference and pulled him through to the second round.

Robin Soderling, playing his first tournament since losing to Roger Federer in the French Open final two weeks ago, progressed to the second round despite making a nervous start.

Soderling was beaten in the French Open final by Roger Federer

The 13th-seeded Swede lost his first set to Luxembourg's Gilles Muller on a tie-break and made hard work of the second set before finally blowing his opponent aside to win 6-7 (4-7) 7-5 6-1 6-2.

On a day when the seeds were pushed hard seed 15, Spaniard Tommy Robredo, was no exception as he was worked hard by Luka Gregorc before overcoming the Slovenian 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 5-7 7-6 (7-3).

Big-serving Ivo Karlovic, seeded 22nd, defeated Lukas Lacko 6-3 7-6 (7-4) 6-3.

Karlovic, the 6ft 10in Croatian who served a record 55 aces in his first-round defeat by Lleyton Hewitt at the French Open, smashed down another 32 throughout his first-round victory.

Karlovic's compatriot Marin Cilic, seeded 11th, eased past Alberto Martin 6-3 6-4 6-4.

Former semi-finalist Xavier Malisse was forced to qualify for the tournament after dropping to 170th in the world but his run was ended by the German 18th seed Rainer Schuettler, who triumphed 6-7 (9-11) 6-4 7-6 (7-3) 6-1.

Fans on Court 18 were treated to a thoroughly entertaining five-set epic as Slovakian Karol Beck beat 21st seed Feliciano Lopez in three hours 45 minutes.

Beck, who was only playing because Marcus Baghdatis had withdrawn from the tournament on Sunday with a knee injury, looked like he would be dispatched easily when Lopez took the first set 6-1.

However, Beck took the next two sets 7-5 6-3 before Lopez won the fourth 6-4 to force a decider.

A dramatic final set swung both ways before it finished 10-8 to the Slovakian ranked 143 in the world.

German Phillip Kohlschreiber had earlier recorded the first men's victory with a 7-6 6-1 6-4 win over Frenchman Florent Serra.

The 27th seed was taken to a tie-break in the first set which he won 7-3 before asserting his superiority in the following two sets.

There was better news for American fans as Mardy Fish progressed to the second round.

The 28th seed won the first two sets 6-3 6-2 and was 4-1 up in the third set when his Argentine opponent Sergio Roitman retired.

In the all Russian encounter on Court Five 29th seed Igor Andreev made it through a tight encounter with Evgeny Korolev 4-6 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 7-6 (7-4).

Elsewhere, Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez beat Agustin Calleri of Argentina 6-2 6-3 6-2.

The tightest match of the day was on Court 13 where Spain's Nicolas Almagro beat Juan Monaco of Argentina 6-7 (3-7) 6-7 (7-9) 7-6 (7-5) 6-4 8-6.

Former world number three Ivan Ljubicic withdrew from the tournament because of an ankle injury.

The 30-year-old Croatian's place was taken by Thailand's Danai Udomchoke, who will face American Sam Querrey in the first round.

Tennis,Bogdanovic in last chance saloon

2009-06-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Bogdanovic in last chance saloon

Bogdanovic impressed in reaching the last 16 in Eastbourne

Alex Bogdanovic admits he is unlikely to be given another chance to compete at Wimbledon if he loses in the first round for the eighth successive year.

The British number two, who faces 20th seed Tomas Berdych on Tuesday, has been handed a wildcard every year since 2002 but is yet to reach the second round.

"As far as wildcards are concerned I think this is it for me," the 25-year-old told BBC Sport.

"It's probably my last chance, I've had plenty and I don't expect any more."

Bogdanovic, ranked 191st in the world, was one of four British men to gain entry to the tournament after failing to earn a place by right.

"It was a close call because at first the criteria for a wildcard was to be inside the top 250, which my ranking was," said the Belgrade-born left-hander.

"But then they (the All England Club) said it would also depend on how many wildcards you'd had in the past.

"I was worried I wouldn't be given one so I really appreciate the opportunity."

I'm in great shape physically and playing the best tennis of my career - I have a tough draw but but I believe I can win

Alex Bogdanovic

Bogdanovic was heavily criticised by the media after marking his seventh successive Wimbledon wildcard in 2008 with a disappointing four-set defeat by the unseeded Italian Simone Bolelli

That followed first-round losses to Nicolas Escude, Sargis Sagsian, Roger Federer, Kevin Kim, Rafael Nadal and Chris Guccione in his previous six visits to SW19.

And, despite a spell working under the renowned American coach Brad Gilbert, Bogdanovic has seen his ranking drop from a career-high 108 in June 2007 to 191 at the start of this Wimbledon fortnight.

But he arrived at SW19 in high spirits after reaching the last 16 at the Aegon International in Eastbourne last week.

Bogdanovic negotiated two qualifying rounds, beat world number 77 Ivo Minar in straight sets and came within two points of victory over eventual champion Dmitry Tursunov, the world number 27.

"Eastbourne gave me belief and showed that one or two points can decide a match at this level," he said.

"If those points start to go in my favour you never know what might happen.

"I took a lot of positives out of the Tursunov match - not only that I nearly beat a great player but the way I planned and was able to take that onto the court."

Bogdanovic has often been accused of lacking commitment - in 2004 the Lawn Tennis Association withdrew his funding for that very reason - but he insists his head is now firmly screwed on.

"People felt my focus was not always in the right place but lately all I've been thinking about is going out there and winning matches," said Bogdanovic, who is now coached by Mike Raphael.

"It would really hurt if I lost to Tomas but if I do I will go away and work harder than ever to improve and and come back a better player.

"I'm in great shape physically and playing the best tennis of my career. I have a tough draw but I'm going out there to play my game and hopefully win.

"Tomas is a great player and he's seeded 20 but I believe I can win."

Tennis,O'Brien hoping to make progress

2009-06-22T21:59:00.000-07:00

O'Brien hoping to make progress

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July
Coverage: Breakfast previews and regular live updates in BBC local radio sport bulletins plus live coverage BBC One, BBC Two, BBC HD, Red Button, website streaming (UK only) and text commentary, 5 Live, 5 Live Sports Extra, BBC iPlayer

O'Brien feeling calm ahead of first round

By Phil Maiden at Wimbledon

East Yorkshire's 23-year-old British number three Katie O'Brien has said she is confident of making progress at Wimbledon this year.

She faces the Czech world number 35 Iveta Benesova at 1200 BST on Tuesday.

World number 108 O'Brien told BBC Sport: "I've played her once before, in Rome last year but I think the courts at Wimbledon will suit me much better.

"Having home advantage will work in my favour. I think I'm in the best form I've ever been in."

O'Brien, whose greatest achievement so far at Wimbledon was reaching the second round in 2007, added: "This year I'm looking forward to it.

"Things have been going really well in practice, so I'm just going to go out there and compete as hard as I can."

And the Brit, who was knocked out in the first round of the French Open, is remaining calm going into this year's event following an early exit last year.

"I've been here a number of years now," she said. "And I think I've maybe been a little bit nervous and stressed about the whole occasion.

"It could be a better draw, it could be a worse draw, all matches are going to be tough."

Tennis,Murray ready to take centre stage

2009-06-22T21:52:00.000-07:00

Murray ready to take centre stage

WIMBLEDON
Date: 22 June - 5 July
Coverage: BBC One, BBC Two, BBC HD, Red Button, website streaming (UK only) and text commentary, 5 Live, 5 Live Sports Extra, BBC iPlayer

By Piers Newbery at Wimbledon

Murray is the highest seed in the top half of the draw

British number one Andy Murray will begin his Wimbledon campaign against American Robbie Kendrick on Tuesday.

The Scot, seeded three, takes on the world number 76 in the third match on Centre Court at around 1600 BST.

Defending champion Venus Williams opens play on Centre at 1300 BST, with Andy Roddick then facing Jeremy Chardy.

Britons Alex Bogdanovic, Dan Ward, Anne Keothavong, Elena Baltacha and Katie O'Brien are also in singles action on day two of the championships.

ButMurray is the centre of attention as he tries to end the 73-year wait since Fred Perry last lifted the men's singles trophy for Britain.

He has played Kendrick three times before, winning all three including a 6-0 6-0 demolition in their only encounter on grass three years ago.

The Scot was heavily beaten in last year's Wimbledon quarter-finals by eventual champion Rafael Nadal, but the situation has changed dramatically 12 months on.

Murray reached his first Grand Slam final at the US Open last year, has won three Masters Series titles and moved up to three in the world rankings.

Meanwhile, Nadal struggles with knee problems and was forced to withdraw from this year's championships on Friday - but only after he had been placed in the same side of the draw as Murray.

"I feel like I'm better equipped to win a Grand Slam this year than I was last year," said Murray.

"I think I have a chance of winning but I understand how difficult that is to do.

Murray wants hard work to pay off

"It's very easy to say, 'Oh, Rafa's not playing, Andy's got a much easier route to the final.' I don't view it like that at all.

"You just focus on one match at a time and try and win one best-of-five-set match every couple of days and not get ahead of yourself. I feel like I've got a chance but I'll have to play great to do it."

Murray won his first grass-court title at Queen's Club two weeks ago and says he is prepared for the intense spotlight that will be on him should he make it to the latter stages at Wimbledon.

"You can either deal with that stuff or you can't," he said. "I don't get caught up in the whole hype thing, reading all the papers, listening to what everyone else is saying.

"I think I can deal with it, just not letting yourself get distracted is the most important thing. I think I've got the right people around me to stop me from doing that."

He is ready - he's beaten everyone there is to beat and on multiple occasions

Jamie Murray on Andy

Jamie Murray believes his brother is ready to land one of the game's biggest prizes.

"He's number three in the world, and now two in the tournament, so whatever tournament he plays he is always going to be one of the favourites to win and Wimbledon's no different," he told BBC Sport.

"I don't see why, if he performs to the level he's capable of, he can't go deep into the tournament and win it, which would be amazing.

"He is ready - he's beaten everyone there is to beat and on multiple occasions. His record in the Slams suggests he knows what to do in the big tournaments and, although there is added pressure at Wimbledon, I'm sure he can do it. And with Nadal absent, his chances have improved."

And Frenchman Gilles Simon, the world number seven, said: "I think Murray can do something very special here but that was also true in last year's US Open and this year's Australian Open, when he came up short, which just shows how tough it is.

"He won Queen's, which shows he's good on grass and has the game to triumph at big tournaments.

"Nadal won Roland Garros the first time he played there so it's never too soon. If he loses it won't be because he's to young or that it's too soon - it's just that there are some very good guys out there."

Fifth seed Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina, who has replaced Nadal at the top of the draw, plays Arnaud Clement in the first match on Court One at 1300 BST, followed by world number one Dinara Safina against Lourdes Dominguez Lino and Juan Carlos Ferrero against Mikhail Youzhny.

Wilccard Bogdanovic will attempt to secure a first ever singles win at Wimbledon at the eighth time of asking but he faces a tough task in the second match on Court Two when he plays 20th seed Tomas Berdych.

British number one Keothavong plays Austria's Patricia Mayr in the second match on Court Four, after compatriot Evans has taken on 12th seed Nikolay Davydenko.

O'Brien feeling calm ahead of first round

O'Brien will open proceedings on Court 14 at 1200 BST against Iveta Benesova, while Baltacha faces Alona Bondarenko at a time to be arranged.

French Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, former world number one Jelena Jankovic and former champion Amelie Mauresmo begin their campaigns on Tuesday, along with former champion Lleyton Hewitt, former world number one Marat Safin, and 10th seed Fernando Gonzalez.