Wimbledon 2011 commences on the 20th of June, and represents the the third in four annual Grand Slam tennis tournaments, along with the Australian Open, French Open and US Open.
Rafael Nadal is the defending gentlemen’s champion, having beaten Czech Republic upstart Tomas Berdych in 2010. Serena Williams is the defending women ladies champion, also winning in 2009. Both will be looking to repeat their triumphs in 2011, with Nadal already winning the French Open Grand Slam and Serena successfully returning from injury.
Wimbledon is the only Grand Slam tournament still played on grass courts. All the players, even the clay courters, speak reverently of the tradition and “special” atmosphere of SW19.
Played at the All England Club in the London suburb of Wimbledon, it is the oldest tennis tournament in the world, having begun in 1877.
Taking place over two weeks in late June and early July, Wimbledon culminates with the gentlemen’s singles final, scheduled for the second Sunday. In addition to being the oldest tennis tournament, Wimbledon is also seen as the most prestigious.
Wimbledon 2011 commences on the 20th of June with the final to be played on Sunday, 3rd of July.
Australia is not without hope, however tennis stocks are down, in particular in the mens draw.
Lleyton Hewitt continues to represent Australia’s best hope to take home the Grand Slam, with Bernard Tomic hoping to qualify for the 2011 event.
Australia’s ladies will be more of a hope, with Sam Stosur leading the 2011 Wimbledon charge. Casey Dellacqua appears to be recovering from injury, having won the French Open doubles, but will need to qualify for the main draw.
Wimbledon 2011 will again capture the interest of Australian tennis fans, who will be hoping for a strong showing deep into the main draw from our best players.
THE ROAR ON