Surviving the moment of shock and maintaining focus after the rain break: Laura Siegemund has reached the second round at Wimbledon. The 36-year-old Swabian won the grass court classic on Tuesday (02.07.24) with 6:4, 6:1 against the Ukrainian Kateryna Baindl. Last year’s winner Marketa Vondrousova, however, was eliminated.
Siegemund, who started in a long-sleeved shirt in the cold, completed her opening task with ease. The referee stopped the match in the first set. It was dripping on the grass. The court had become damp and Siegemund had just slipped during a volley.
The Metzinger protected herself with a towel over her shoulders and discussed things with her coach and life partner Antonio Zucca. Later, she had a little luck on her side at set point when her net roller was out of reach.
Tarpaulins cover the outdoor areas
Then the drizzle increased. Helpers took down the nets and pulled tarpaulins over the courts: the first rain interruption of this year’s tournament, typical for Wimbledon, occurred on the outdoor courts. Siegemund had to wait more than an hour – and then she was in a hurry. The Swabian said goodbye with a smile when she had used the second match point.
Difficult task against Rybakina
Now a difficult task could follow. She will face Jelena Rybakina, the 2022 tournament winner, or Romanian Elena Ruse.
Angelique Kerber, tournament winner of 2018, former semi-finalist Tatjana Maria and Jule Niemeier will also be in action on Tuesday.
Defending champion Vondrousova already out
Defending champion Marketa Vondrousova has to pack her bags after her surprising first-round defeat against Spaniard Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. The 25-year-old Czech, who was unable to compete in the preparation tournament in Bad Homburg due to a hip injury, lost 4:6, 2:6 and was unable to repeat her brilliant performances from the previous year.
The circle of favorites continues to shrink. Before the start, Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka had to cancel her participation due to a shoulder injury. Among those highly rated in London are Jelena Rybakina, the 2022 title holder, and Iga Swiatek. The Pole recently celebrated her fifth Grand Slam victory at the French Open.
