Roger Federer begins his campaign for a sixth Wimbledon title, and a record 15th major, rejuvenated by finally lifting his French Open jinx and seeing injured rival Rafael Nadal limp out of contention.
Twelve months ago, Federer's five-year All England Club domination was brought to an end by Nadal in a five-set classic now widely regarded as the greatest Grand Slam final of all time.
But with deposed Roland Garros champion Nadal forced to pull out to rest his injured knees, Federer has a golden opportunity to move within one title of Pete Sampras's record of seven Wimbledon triumphs.
“I don't feel like I have extra pressure,” said Federer.
“There's a lot of weight off my shoulders since Paris. So I'm entering tournaments a little bit more relaxed these days.”
Federer will open proceedings on Centre Court against Taiwan's Yen-Hsun Lu on Monday in what will be his first tennis since beating Robin Soderling in the Roland Garros final.
“I was mentally drained because I felt like I had to play like four finals at the end of Paris because of the pressure,” he said.
{{/usCountry}}“I was mentally drained because I felt like I had to play like four finals at the end of Paris because of the pressure,” he said.
{{/usCountry}}