2018 Wimbledon | Andy Murray draws Benoit Paire as Roger Federer gets Dusan Lajovic
The draws for the opening round of Wimbledon are out and the likes of Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are all dealt with an easy progression. Murray would be up against Benoit Paire although the Britisher's participation remains in doubt as he is not 100% fitness yet.
The third Grand Slam of the year is starting after a weekend with fans eagerly waiting for the battle to ensue between Swiss legend and current world number 2 Roger Federer and his nemesis Rafael Nadal. Federer would begin his proceedings next week when he will be facing World number 57 Dusan Lajovic on Centre Court on Monday. The two had met in the second round of Wimbledon last year where Federer won the match in straight sets.
World No 1 Rafael Nadal, who hoped to build on an impressive clay court season and to mount a challenge for his first Wimbledon win since 2010, was the last to find out his opponent and he would face World number 129 Dudi Sela in the first round on Tuesday.
Injury-plagued Andy Murray, who made his comeback in Queen’s last week after a gap of one year due to hip problems, remained a doubt for this year’s Wimbledon. He has kept his cards close to his chest and could yet pull out if he doesn't feel like he could play. Murray was drawn against French player Benoit Paire as he avoided any tough opponent.
Serbian tennis ace, Novak Djokovic would be up against American Tennys Sandgren. India’s Yuki Bhambri will also feature in the event as he was drawn up against 29-year old Italian Thomas Fabbiano in the first round.
The women’s draw saw Serena Williams, who missed last year’s event while pregnant, back in action at Wimbledon. The high-flying American will play
World number 1 Simona Halep was drawn to face Kurumi Nara in the first round while former world champion Maria Sharapova will face fellow Russian Vitalia Diatchenko in the opening round.
