Defending champion Jannik Sinner opened his Wimbledon campaign with a gritty five-set victory over Miomir Kecmanovic on Monday, overcoming a foot injury that left him bleeding through his shoe. The world No. 1 rallied from a set down twice to claim a 4-6, 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-2, 6-3 win that lasted three and a half hours on Centre Court.

Sinner's physical struggles added drama to an already tense opener. The Italian fell to the grass during the match and required medical attention, though he pushed through to avoid becoming only the second man in the Open Era to lose in the first round after winning the title. His recent form made the comeback even more impressive given his French Open exit just weeks ago.

The Serbian proved dangerous despite being a significant underdog. Kecmanovic, ranked 50th, pushed the champion throughout, particularly in the third-set tiebreak where Sinner's composure wavered. Sinner hadn't played competitively since Roland Garros, where heat-related dizziness contributed to his second-round loss against Juan Manuel Cerundolo.

The win sets up Sinner's bid to become the first man since 2002 to successfully defend his Wimbledon title. Lleyton Hewitt remains the only recent champion to lose in the opening round the following year. With his injury concerns and lack of match play, Sinner faces questions about whether he can navigate the two weeks ahead.