South Africa’s Raven Klaasen yesterday booked his place in the quarterfinal at Wimbledon.
Teaming up with New Zealand-born Japan player Ben McLachlan, the duo battled past France teammates Fabrice Martin and Jeremy Chardy 6-7, 6-4, 6-7, 7-6, 7-5 to make it to the last eight.
With both Kevin Anderson and Lloyd Harris sent packing in singles action already, Cape Town homeboy Klaasen is SA’s only remaining hope in the tournament.
The man who ended Anderson’s run in the second round, defending champion Novak Djokovic, cruised into the quarterfinals yesterday with a 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 win over Cristian Garin.
Having dropped only one set to date, Djokovic says of his win: “My confidence level is very high after winning the French Open.
“It was probably one of the biggest wins under those kind of circumstances – two five-setters, two four-setters, it took a lot out of me. But at same time gave me the boost I needed for Wimbledon.
“It’s the quickest surface in our sport, and it takes time to adjust to the game.
“The further the tournament goes, the more confident I am playing on grass.”