Novak Djokovic eyes 8th title and all-time record 24th Grand Slam triumph as Wimbledon 2023 kicks off

Novak Djokovic (Source: Twitter)

Current World No. 2 Novak Djokovic is aiming for an all-time record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title when he plays at Wimbledon 2023 on Monday, July 3. The 36-year-old, who has won the previous four tournaments at the All England Club and a total of eight titles, will compete on Centre Court, where he hasn't suffered a loss in 10 years.

Djokovic headed to London after winning the Australian Open and French Open this year to reclaim his top spot, which is now held by Carlos Alcaraz in the latest ATP rankings. His triumph in Paris, after defeating Casper Ruud in straight sets, helped the Serbian break Rafael Nadal's record for most Grand Slam victories (22) in the men's category.

Djokovic now has a chance to shatter the all-time record for the most Grand Slam titles won by any male or female player. The record is currently held by former Australian tennis player Margaret Court, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. Throughout her dominant career, she has won numerous trophies, including 24 Grand Slam singles titles.

Meanwhile, Djokovic has also a chance to become the first calendar Grand Slam winner since Rod Laver in 1969.
“When I enter the Centre Court, I guess it just awakens something in me and I’m able to perform at a very high level,” said the Serbian.

This is the first edition of Wimbledon since 1998 without Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal. While Federer has retired from the sport, Nadal has been out of action owing to injury since the 2023 Australian Open. 2022 runner-up Nick Kyrgios of Australia was due to face David Goff on Monday but had to pull out after injuring his wrist. Kyrgios' place in the draw will be taken by a lucky loser from qualifying.

World No. 1 Iga Swiatek will face China's Zhu Lin 

Coming to the women's category, the World No. 1 Iga Swiatek will face China's 114th-ranked Zhu Lin in her tournament opener. The Polish tennis player has never advanced past the fourth round of Wimbledon. However, Swiatek, who won her third French Open championship last month, will be optimistic of winning Wimbledon this time.

“For sure, I believe the best players, they can play on all surfaces. I want to kind of become that kind of player who can play well on grass as well and feel comfortable there," the 22-year-old said.

Meanwhile, five-time champion Venus Williams will take on Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina on Centre Court. Williams, 43, is playing the singles event for the 24th time.