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Players to watch

By KEITH NIEBUHR
Published June 25, 2006

ROGER FEDERER

RANKING:

He might be beatable on clay, but Federer has been untouchable on grass, where he has won 41 straight to tie Bjorn Borg's record.

Switzerland

Seven, Wimbledon ('03, '04, '05), U.S. Open ('04, '05), Australian Open ('04, '06)

Everyone wants to see if the world's best clay-court player can have success on grass, a surface on which his noted topspin forehand doesn't seem to work as well.

Spain

Two, French Open ('05, '06)

A fantastic grass-court player, thanks largely to his powerful serve. Has lost to Federer in each of the past three Wimbledons.

United States

One, U.S. Open ('03)

Has never had success at Wimbledon, but is playing better than ever and has the power game to thrive. Confidence is at an all-time high.

United States

None

One-time Wimbledon runnerup is having a great year and knows lay of the land. Seems to play better at the majors.

Argentina

None

Has the talent to win, but you never know which player will show - the one who won the Australian Open or the one who flopped at the French.

France

One, Australian Open ('06)

Three-time Wimbledon champion is 42-6 all time at the All England Club. Her last tournament title came here in 2005.

United States

Five, Wimbledon (2000, '01, '05), U.S. Open (2000, '01)

Mixed reviews at Wimbledon but is athletic and powerful enough to be a threat. Health always seems to be an issue.

Belgium

One, U.S. Open ('05)

Considered the favorite by oddsmakers, Sharapova is 15-2 at Wimbledon. Has just one singles title this year, however.

Russia

One, Wimbledon ('04)

This is the only major she hasn't won. Has twice been bounced in the opening round but was a finalist in 2001.

Belgium

Five, U.S. Open ('03), French Open ('03, '05, '06), Australian Open ('04)

[Last modified June 25, 2006, 03:37:52]