Thanasi Kokkinakis has continued his resurgent run in 2022, winning a match at Wimbledon for the first time in seven attempts.
The South Australian native battled through a tight first set to defeat Polish world No.91 Kamil Majchrzak 7-6(5) 6-2 7-5 in just under two-and-a-half hours on the opening day of competition.
After turning pro in 2013, Kokkinakis made his first appearance at the All England Club in 2015 where he was bundled out in the first round. A course of luckless injuries then hindered the promising talent from competing in 2016 and 2019, qualifying in 2018 and 2021 and progressing past the opening round in 2017.
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The Australian Open men’s doubles champion recovered from an early break of serve in the third set to break twice himself and close out the match in straight sets.
In a classy performance, the 26-year-old slammed 17 aces, won 80 per cent of points on first serve and struck 53 winners.
The world No.79 now sets up a second-round encounter with three-time defending champion Novak Djokovic, who earlier prevailed in four sets against Korean Soonwoo Kwon.
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Speaking after the match, Kokkinakis said he “can’t wait” for the challenge.
“I’m super happy with how the result panned out. A lot of doubt coming into the tournament. Wasn’t sure how I’d pull up, how I’d play, if I would even play,” Kokkinakis said, having hurt his left knee in an on-court tumble at Surbiton three weeks ago.
“Can’t wait. Can’t wait for the opportunity.
“Definitely was in the back of my mind playing that match. I obviously saw the draw.
“I’m not one of those people that doesn’t look ahead. I knew I had a tough match obviously first, but definitely knew what was at stake.”
Kokkinakis was the only Australian to progress on day one.
Compatriots Max Purcell, John Millman and James Duckworth all had their campaigns ended. While qualifier Maddison Inglis was also defeated.
Astra Sharma will resume her clash with Germany’s Tatjana Maria after the match was suspended under fading light at one set apiece.
Zoe Hives and Daria Saville had their scheduled matches postponed because of a rain interruption.