Raonic’s foe fan of Crosby’s ox-like strength

LONDON While most Canadians figure to be rooting for Milos Raonic in his Wimbledon quarter-final, one notable Canuck could be supporting his opponent.

Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby hit the court for a practice session with American John Isner — Raonic’s foe Wednesday — at the All England Club before Wimbledon.

“Actually got him out on the court for 15-20 minutes, got to meet him, talk to him and to see what he does to stay in shape,” the six-foot-10 Isner said. “That dude works his tail off. That’s why he’s the best hockey player in the world.”

Isner was impressed with Crosby’s tennis game.

“He was pretty good,” Isner said, adding Crosby plays tennis recreationally.

“He actually was a little bit nervous, I think . ... Once he started releasing his forehand, he started hitting the ball much better. He’s strong as an ox. It’s crazy how strong his lower body is.”

The Isner-Raonic matchup features two booming servers. Isner has the top service rating on the ATP Tour over the last year, while Raonic is fifth.

“There’s a good chance it’s going to come down to a few points here and there,” Isner said. “Strength on strength for sure.”

Meanwhile, the British team of Harriet Dart and Jay Clarke upset the top-seeded duo of Ottawa’s Gabriela Dabrowski and Mate Pavic of Croatia 6-3, 6-4 in third-round mixed doubles action.

Elsewhere, Serena Williams reached the semifinals with a win over 52nd-ranked Camila Giorgi. She’ll next face Germany’s Julia Gorges. The other semifinal pits No. 11 seed Angelique Kerber versus No. 12 Jelena Ostapenko.

On the men’s side, Juan Martin del Potro advanced to the quarter-finals and will face Rafael Nadal Wednesday. The other men’s quarters see Roger Federer playing Kevin Anderson and Kei Nishikori battling Novak Djokovic.