Petra Kvitova’s defence of her Wimbledon crown may have been plain sailing so far, but she is expecting all that to change in the third round against Jelena Jankovic.
The defending champion has spent just one hour 34 minutes on court, by beating Kiki Bertens 6-1 6-0 in the first round and Kurumi Nara 6-2 6-0 in the second.
But she faces former world number one Jankovic in the next round and knows the 28th seed will pose a much bigger threat.
“It’s always a big challenge to face her,” she said.
“She is a former No. 1 player and it’s always little bit special against her.
“She always has a weapon to play, especially her backhand, which is really great.
“I played her in Rome recently but have never played her on grass. It’s really different.
“But I’m going to try the playing the same way as I normally play.
“It’s a big thing for her when she’s playing so well after all these years.
“I think two years ago she qualified for the end of season Championships and was in great form.
“It’s just nice to still see her around as she’s a nice person who is always smiling and it’s nice to see her in the locker room.”
Nara offered some resistance but was still blown away by Kvitova, who won 75% of points on her first serve and hit 23 winners to continue her scintillating form.
“I’m very pleased with how everything is going so far,” she said.
“I think I’m handling it better than in 2012 when I was defending my first title.
“I’m nervous before each match I play here, especially in the first round, but it was there as well today.
“Every match I’m going to play is great and I’m trying to really enjoy it.
“Playing here on the grass really suits my game and I really love to play here. It’s very nice feeling.”
Feature image courtesy of Wimbledon, via Youtube, with thanks
