Krejcikova begins title defence at ‘temple of tennis

Defending Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova said she is happy to be back playing at the “temple of tennis” as she avoided a first-round upset with victory over promising youngster Alexandra Eala.

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The Czech had been an injury doubt coming into the tournament but showed her experience in a 3-6 6-2 6-1 win when she opened Tuesday’s play on her return to Centre Court.

Krejcikova beat Italian Jasmine Paolini in last year’s final to lift the trophy but has been hampered by injury problems this year.

She endured a lengthy lay-off with a back issue, then had to pull out of Eastbourne last week because of a thigh problem.

Many anticipated her lack of match fitness - she has only played six matches this year - had laid the foundations for an upset at the All England Club against up-and-coming 20-year-old Filipino Eala.

“I was more excited than last year, definitely,” Krejcikova said.

“I was feeling more of the happier emotions than I did last year. It’s just great to be back - great to be playing in the temple of tennis.

“It’s just a very, very special place here.”