Monday 27 June 2016 14:27, UK
Novak Djokovic begins his Wimbledon title defence against Britain's James Ward and Roger Federer also starts his pursuit of an eighth crown at the All England club on Monday.
World No 1 Djokovic is targeting a calendar year Grand Slam following this year's victories at the Australian Open and French Open and Ward, ranked at 177, faces a daunting task.
Djokovic returns to competitive action for the first time since his triumph over Andy Murray at Roland Garros, which ended his long wait for the major clay title.
In stark contrast, Ward has be short of form and opening-round defeats at Nottingham and Queen's will have not boosted his confidence ahead of a meeting with dominant Serb.
Kyle Edmund, another British hope, will be hoping to come through a tough clash against Adrian Mannarino, with the winner set to face either Djokovic or Ward.
Third seed Federer could renew his rivalry with Djokovic in the semi-finals after being drawn in the same half, but firstly must take on Argentina's Guido Pella.
The Swiss star missed the French Open as he recovered from knee and back injuries, but is ready to challenge fellow title contenders Djokovic and Andy Murray.
"Clearly I'm not thinking of the title right away. It's too far ahead," said Federer, who has not won a Grand Slam since Wimbledon in 2012.
"Regardless if even Novak or Andy would be in the draw, and they are, they are the big favourites in my opinion.
"They've had such a great last six months, last few years. To me they are the ones to beat."
In the women's draw, last year's beaten finalist Garbine Muguruza makes her first appearance against Camila Giorgi.
The Spanish second seed was beaten in straight sets by Serena Williams in the 2015 showpiece, but exacted revenge by defeating the American in the French Open final this year to claim her first Grand Slam title.
The British duo of Laura Robson and Naomi Broady are also in action during a busy schedule in south-west London.
Robson has been handed a difficult clash with Angelique Kerber, five years after her victory over the German, while Broady is pitted against the 17th seed Elina Svitolina.
Dan Evans, Alexander Ward, Marcus Willis and Brydan Klein complete the contingent of Brit players in action on the grass.
