Kerber, the world number one, has struggled since reaching the top of the rankings, making just one final in 2017 and suffering a number of early exits. But with Serena Williams absent from the event, the German will be hopeful of picking up a third Grand Slam title of her career on the grass courts of south-west London.
Great Britain’s Johanna Konta shakes hands with Germany’s Angelique Kerber at the end of their quarter finals matchReuters
British number one Konta has enjoyed an impressive run of results in the build-up to Wimbledon, but was forced to withdraw from Eastbourne on Friday after picking up a back injury in her quarter-final win over the aforementioned Kerber.
The British star struck her head heavily on the ground during that match and was left in tears during the five-minute break in play that followed.
Two-time champion Petra Kvitova will face Sweden’s Johanna Larsson in the first round, just three months after making her comeback from a hand injury sustained when she was stabbed during a break-in at her home.
The draw could see Konta and Kvitova meet as early as the round four, while Britain’s Laura Robson could face second seed Simona Halep in the second round if she progresses.
Victoria Azarenka, playing in her first Grand Slam since giving birth to son Leo, will face American youngster Cici Bellis.
And five-time Wimbledon champion Venus Williams will take on Elise Mertens in the first round. The 37-year-old is on a potential collision course with big-hitting French Open champion Elena Ostapenko – the pair could meet as early as the quarter-final stage.
