Swiatek faces tricky first-round test against Kenin at Wimbledon

LONDON: In a highly anticipated start to this year’s Wimbledon, top seed Iga Swiatek will face a challenging first-round opponent in American Sofia Kenin. The world number one and five-time Grand Slam champion is eager to secure her first Wimbledon title but must first navigate a tough opening match against the 2020 Australian Open champion.

Swiatek’s draw places her in the same quarter as Czech reigning champion Marketa Vondrousova, who begins her title defense against Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. This section of the draw promises intense competition, with Swiatek and Vondrousova both aiming for a deep run.

Second seed Coco Gauff is set for an all-American clash with Caroline Dolehide, while third seed Aryna Sabalenka will face American Emina Bektas. The first round also features some notable matchups, including a battle of Grand Slam champions as Victoria Azarenka takes on Sloane Stephens. Meanwhile, British wildcard Emma Raducanu faces a tough test against Russian 22nd seed Ekaterina Alexandrova.(Reuters)