The 139th edition of Wimbledon gets underway on Monday, June 29, with the world’s best players descending on the All England Club in pursuit of the most prestigious title in tennis. The men’s singles final takes place on Sunday, July 12, with coverage available throughout the fortnight on the BBC in the UK. With Carlos Alcaraz sidelined through injury, the spotlight falls firmly on defending champion Jannik Sinner, who arrives in SW19 as a clear favourite. However, Wimbledon has a habit of producing surprises and there are several players capable of challenging the Italian over the next two weeks.
Wimbledon Men’s Singles 2026: Can Anyone Stop Sinner?
Setting The Scene:
Sinner begins the tournament as the man everyone has to beat. The world number one lifted the trophy last year and, despite his disappointment at Roland Garros, remains comfortably the most consistent player on the ATP Tour. The absence of Alcaraz has opened up the draw considerably. Novak Djokovic, now 39, continues his pursuit of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, while Alexander Zverev arrives full of confidence after finally capturing his maiden major at the French Open earlier this month.
The American contingent also look particularly dangerous on grass. Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe have all produced strong performances during the grass-court season and possess the powerful games needed to thrive at Wimbledon. While Sinner remains the standout contender, grass courts can narrow the gap between the elite and the chasing pack. Big servers, aggressive returners and players willing to attack the net often find opportunities to cause problems, making Wimbledon a thrilling and sometimes unpredictable watch.
Tip 1: Jannik Sinner to win Wimbledon
Sinner deserves his position as clear favourite. His serve has improved dramatically over the last two seasons and his clean ball-striking is perfectly suited to grass. With Alcaraz absent and Djokovic no longer at his physical peak, the Italian’s route to another title looks clearer than it has at any major in recent years. He is short enough in the betting, but remains the most likely champion by some distance. However, his shock defeat in France shows that he is not infallible and will have to be at his best to retain his title.
Tip 2: Alexander Zverev to win Wimbledon
Zverev finally ended years of Grand Slam frustration by winning Roland Garros and could be ready to challenge on grass as well. The German has historically underperformed at Wimbledon, but with his confidence high, the number two seed will avoid Sinner until the final and can take advantage of that draw. He arrives with momentum, possesses one of the best serves on tour and should relish a draw lacking Alcaraz. Available at 10/1, the each-way value is also an appealing option.
Tip 3: Frances Tiafoe each-way
Tiafoe is available at 50/1 and represents an intriguing outsider. The American claimed the Halle title last week with an impressive straight sets win over Taylor Fritz, proving he can compete with elite players on grass. His aggressive style, powerful serve and willingness to take risks make him a dangerous prospect. Winning seven best-of-five matches is a huge ask, which explains the price, but he has the tools to outperform market expectations and make a deep run. Wimbledon often rewards players who arrive with confidence and momentum. Sinner remains the obvious choice, but Zverev’s newfound belief and Tiafoe’s grass-court credentials could make them the value alternatives as another fascinating fortnight unfolds in south-west London.