Sinner survives a big scare: through in five

At Wimbledon, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner met unexpected resistance in the first round and survived a big scare. Facing Miomir Kecmanović on Centre Court, the Italian came through a grueling five-set battle, winning 4-6, 6-3, 7-6, 2-6, 6-3 to reach the second round. The match lasted 3 hours and 32 minutes.

Starting poorly, Sinner lost the first set 6-4 to fall behind. Pulling his game together in the second, the Italian took it 6-3 to level the match. The third set was one of its turning points; with the set tight, the two went to a tie-break, and Sinner won the crucial breaker 8-6 to lead 2-1.

But Kecmanović did not give up. Taking the fourth set by a clear 6-2, the Serb forced a decisive fifth set and pushed the world No. 1 hard. In the final set, Sinner showed his experience and class, lifting his level to take the set 6-3 and earn the right to continue his run at the tournament. The statistics show Sinner stood out clearly in winners produced, but that his unforced errors were also high.

Taking the court as one of the tournament's biggest favorites, the result was both a warning and a relief for Sinner. After a match that showed every round can be tough on grass, the Italian will aim to raise his level in the rounds ahead. Through to the second round, Sinner keeps his title bid alive.

By the numbers (Sinner-Kecmanović): Score 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(6), 2-6, 6-3 · Winners 72-20 · Unforced errors 52-32 · Break points won 4/9 - 1/4 · 1st serve points won 88%-74% · 2nd serve points won 58%-50% · Time 3:32

Image: BBC