LONDON, 30 June 2003 — After six days of glorious weather, marauding giants, invading Russians, Anglo-Saxon language and a healthy dose of Henmania, Wimbledon enters its second week full of intriguing storylines.
Following the first-round exit of men’s top seed and defending champion Lleyton Hewitt to towering Croat Ivo Karlovic, the list of possible heirs to his crown is littered with household names and some who could walk through Wimbledon village without receiving a second glance.
The women’s last 16 line-up, on the other hand, has a rather more familiar feel, with 2002 winner Serena Williams looming large over her rivals — five of whom hail from Russia, including 16-year-old sensation Maria Sharapova. At 33, and the oldest man in the draw, world number one Andre Agassi’s eyes will be firmly set on next Sunday’s final.
The American knows this could be his last chance to repeat his 1992 triumph, although standing in his way in the fourth round is the brooding presence of Mark Philippoussis.
After Greg Rusedski’s foul-mouthed demise against favorite Andy Roddick in the second round, Tim Henman is once again shouldering home hopes. The real business starts today however when he meets gritty Argentine David Nalbandian, who is busy proving last year’s path to the final was no fluke. The booming serve of Roddick has left a trail of wreckage in the top half and he will need it again to get by swashbuckling Thai Paradorn Srichaphan in round four. With Max Mirnyi a possible quarterfinal opponent and the talented fourth seed Roger Federer scheduled for the semifinal Roddick’s drastic improvement under new coach Brad Gilbert will be severely tested.
The women’s singles should, once again boil down to a battle between Belgium and the United States.
Serena Williams will relish the chance for revenge over Justin Henin-Hardenne after she was booed by the French crowd during her semifinal defeat at Roland Garros.
