Tennis
Federer begins Wimbledon quest against Russian
By DPA
Jun 22, 2007, 13:07 GMT

London - Roger Federer begins his bid for a fifth straight Wimbledon title as he opens against Russian Teimuraz Gabashvili after the draw made Friday.

Second seed Rafael Nadal, last year's finalist who beat the Swiss in a second consecutive French Open final not quite a fortnight ago, must reel in American Mardy Fish in his first-round grass opener at the All England club.

Fish, while not a standout threat, can play on the surface, as witnessed by a Nottingham final several seasons ago.

Showcase stars will be playing in the 'elements' with the iconic centre court undergoing the installation of a moveable roof, a project expected to be completed in 2009.

But in contrast to last year's edition, the overhang from the previous iteration of the court has now been removed, leaving the entire court facing what officials hope will be blue skies when the event starts on Monday.

American Andy Roddick, the third-seeded winner of last week's Queen's tune-up tournament, faces compatriot Justin Gimelstob, who is returning after back surgery.

Britain's eighth seed Andy Murray looks prepared to test his injured right wrist in his first match in two months, facing a first-round challenge against Ecuadorian Nicolas Lapentti.

Former British number one Tim Henman plays 1998 French Open champion Carlos Moya.

Women's holder Amelie Mauresmo begins with American Jamea Jackson, while top seeded Justine Henin, last year's losing finalist to Mauresmo, takes on Argentine Jorgelina Cravero.

Maria Sharapova, who won as a teenager in 2004, starts with Taiwan's Chan Yung-Jan.

Serena Williams, twice a champion, comes to Britain with no grass play, starting with Lourdes Dominguez-Lino of Spain.

Serb third seed Jelena Jankovic, who won the Birmingham grass trophy last week, faces British wild card Anne Keothavong.