Djokovic begins from scratch

The second-seeded Serb beat Jeremy Chardy of France 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 on Tuesday at Wimbledon, Djokovic's first time on court since his 43-match winning streak ended in the French Open semi-finals two weeks ago. "When this streak ended in Paris, it was kind of a relief as well, because it's been a very, very successful five, six months for me, but very long as well and exhausting," Djokovic said. "I've played so many matches. So I needed some time to relax." Djokovic didn't play any grass court tuneup tournaments after Roland Garros, but he didn't show any sign of rust against the 54th-ranked Chardy. Djokovic dropped just two points on serve in the first set and 11 in the entire match. He saved the only break point he faced. Now he's 42-1 in 2011, heading into the second round. Djokovic is a two-time Australian Open champion and a two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist. He said Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal — winners of the past eight Wimbledon titles — are the favourites at the All England Club this year, but considers himself a contender. "It's true there is a different approach to this year's Wimbledon from my side because I'm playing, I think, best tennis of my life in the last six months," Djokovic said. Irish hope fades Forget Centre Court, the most sought-after ticket at Wimbledon on Tuesday was for Court 17. With a raucous Irish contingent behind him, Conor Niland came ever-so-close to being the first Irishman to win a men's singles match at Wimbledon in the Open era. By the time the fifth set came around against Adrian Mannarino of France, Niland's supporters were climbing onto adjacent walls and standing on tiptoes to try to see over the barriers and catch a glimpse of the 29-year-old Limerick resident. Niland, who came through qualifying to become the first Irishman to play at Wimbledon in 27 years, led 4-1 in the final set but lost 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7), 4-6, 6-4 From gulfnews.