wimbledon roundup

New streak: Novak Djokovic ended his “losing streak.” The second-seeded Serb beat Jeremy Chardy of France 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 Tuesday at Wimbledon, Djokovic’s first time on court since his 43-match winning streak ended in the French Open semifinals 21/2 weeks ago. “When this streak ended in Paris, it was kind of a relief as well, because it’s been a very, very successful five, six months for me, but very long as well and exhausting,” Djokovic said. “I’ve played so many matches. So I needed some time to relax.” Djokovic didn’t play any grass-court tuneup tournaments after Roland Garros, but he didn’t show any sign of rust against the 54th-ranked Chardy. Djokovic dropped two points on serve in the first set and 11 in the match.

Nearly Niland: Forget Centre Court, the most sought-after ticket at Wimbledon on Tuesday was for Court 17. With a raucous Irish contingent behind him, Conor Niland came ever-so-close to being the first Irishman to win a men’s singles match at Wimbledon in the Open era. By the time the fifth set came around against Adrian Mannarino of France, Niland’s supporters were climbing onto adjacent walls and standing on tiptoes to try to see over the barriers and catch a glimpse of the 29-year-old Limerick resident. Niland, the first Irishman to play at Wimbledon in 27 years, led 4-1 in the final set but lost 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7), 4-6, 6-4.

Associated Press