BATTLE OF THE FRENCH

TWO prodigious but unrealised French talents go head to head in the third match on Court 2. Gael Monfils, 31, and Richard Gasquet, 32, have been burdened with the expectation of delivering France’s first Grand Slam title since 1983. Both in the twilight of their careers, Monfils has slipped outside the seedings to set up this blockbuster first-round clash. Expect an exhilarating contest with incredible athleticism and eccentric trick shots from Monfils (right) and sumptuous single-handed backhands from Wimbledon favourite Gasquet.