Sinner eyes progress as Gauff seeks Wimbledon breakthrough

LONDON: World number one Jannik Sinner will look to move a step closer to defending his Wimbledon title on Friday, while Coco Gauff aims to continue her impressive run as she chases a long-awaited breakthrough at the All England Club.

Sinner enters the third round against American Jenson Brooksby after overcoming an early scare in the tournament. Following a gruelling five-set first-round victory, the Italian settled into the competition with a straight-sets win over Nuno Borges, although he admitted there is still room for improvement.

“I’m trying to come to the net more, be more aggressive and improve my movement. The first couple of matches are always tough, but now I’m past them,” Sinner said.

The defending champion also appears to have recovered from the torn toenail that caused him discomfort during his opening-round match.

Despite winning their only previous meeting in straight sets in 2021, Sinner expects a much tougher contest against Brooksby, whose unconventional style and ability to extend rallies have made him a dangerous opponent.

“It’s going to be a very different and very tough match. I’m looking forward to it,” Sinner said.

On the women’s side, Gauff is seeking to build on renewed confidence as she targets her best-ever Wimbledon campaign. The American has never advanced beyond the fourth round at the grass-court Grand Slam but believes her improved serve could help change that this year.

After battling past Solana Sierra in the second round, Gauff said her serving performance, including 10 aces and just five double faults, was a major confidence boost.

“I’m really happy with how I fought and competed, and especially with how I served,” the two-time Grand Slam champion said.

Gauff faces compatriot Claire Liu in the third round, having won both of their previous meetings in straight sets, and will be aiming to maintain her momentum with another convincing victory.

Elsewhere, Canadian third seed Felix Auger-Aliassime meets American qualifier Michael Zheng, who has enjoyed a breakthrough tournament after graduating from Columbia University earlier this year.

Auger-Aliassime praised the 22-year-old’s rapid rise, saying Zheng’s intelligence and variety make him a difficult opponent despite his lack of Grand Slam experience.

Friday’s schedule also features seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic against Arthur Rinderknech on Centre Court, while world number one Aryna Sabalenka takes on former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko.