SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER!
 
 
Facebook Social Button Twitter Social Button Follow Us on InstagramYouTube Social Button
NewsScoresRankingsLucky Letcord PodcastShopPro GearPickleballGear Sale


By Erik Gudris | Sunday, June 29, 2014

 
Lleyton Hewitt Wimbledon

Was this Lleyton Hewitt's last Wimbledon? That's one of several stories fans might have missed during all the action last week.

Photo Credit: Kieran Galvin / CameraSport

The "Big Four" marching through the gentlemen's draw as Serena Williams exited the ladies' event provided the biggest headlines during week one at Wimbledon. Here's a run down of several key stories and players that also made news.

Wimbledon - Cornet Upsets Serena in Third Round

Hewitt's Last Wimbledon?

Former Wimbledon champion Lleyton Hewitt of Australia put up yet another determined fight as only "Rusty" can on the fabled lawns. Hewitt forced Jerzy Janowicz into a five set battle before the Polish No. 15 seed finally prevailed 7-5, 6-4, 6-7(7), 4-6, 6-3.

By playing a five set match, Hewitt passed Andre Agassi for the most five setters played at majors during the Open Era with 42 total. Hewitt, competing in his 61st Grand Slam, is now tied for second place with Agassi and Roger Federer in terms of most majors played in the Open Era. Fabrice Santoro leads with 70 total.

Hewitt's second round loss had some wondering if perhaps this was the 33 year old's last ever visit at Wimbledon.

After his defeat, the former world No. 1 Hewitt made no mention of retirement though and is still scheduled to compete during the summer hard court season.

“You never know. I’m one injury away from hanging up the bats at any time. Obviously, you appreciate the support out there,” Hewitt said later. “I still enjoy it. I still enjoy doing the hard work – for moments out there like this – to play five-setters against the best guys in the world."

Bryan Brothers Begin Title Defense

Top seeds and current world No. 1's Bob and Mike Bryan got their Wimbledon doubles title defense underway. The Americans defeated the team of Samuel Groth and Matt Ebden 3-6, 7-6(2), 6-2, 6-2.

After winning three out of the four Grand Slams last year, the Bryans are seeking to turnaround a disappointing 2014 season. The twins have yet to reach the final at a major this year.

Wimbledon Installs New "Champion's Gate"

The impromptu tradition of new Wimbledon title winners climbing up to their supporters in the Friends' Box will end this year.

Organizers recently installed a "Champion's Gate" that will allow easier access to stairs leading up from Centre Court to the Player's Box. Though some players and fans have objected, organizers said the new addition was in the best interest of safety.

Pat Cash of Australia started the whole thing when he won the men's title in 1987. Marion Bartoli and Andy Murray both climbed up to the Player's Box when they won last year.

The Return of Vera Zvonareva

2010 Wimbledon finalist Vera Zvonareva of Russia made the most of the wildcard given to her for this year's tournament.

Ranked once as high as No. 2 in the world, Zvonareva had shoulder surgery in early 2013. That forced her out of the game for over a year. Zvonareva made her return this season, but competed sparingly at various WTA events.

Zvonareva reached the third round of Wimbledon before losing to Zarina Diyas 7-6(1), 3-6, 6-3.

Wimbledon Dress Code More Strict Than Usual

If it looks like players are wearing even more white at Wimbledon this year, that assumption would be correct.

Tournament organizers are enforcing stricter rules on what players can wear, including making sure the majority of their outfits are as white as possible.

According to the Telegraph UK, players may only have 1cm of colored trim in their clothes. The rule also applies to underwear.

Though some players have objected, Venus Williams spoke in support of the rule change.

"I think it's a nice change. I think everyone just kind of glows in white. Obviously not all year, because anything every day is boring. But during these two weeks, it's nice."

 

Latest News