For the past few weeks, the weather in England has been of all-consuming interest in India—more people know when it’s going to rain in the UK than how the monsoon has progressed here. First, they tracked forecasts for Southampton as rain delayed and then held up play at the World Test Championship between India and New Zealand. And now, as Wimbledon gets under way on Monday, sports fans will continue to check the weather, this time in London.
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The Championships are back after a year and the pandemic has changed the rules of engagement, but it’s the old guard that seems likely to rule. Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep will bid to defend their 2019 titles, while Roger Federer and Serena Williams, who have been struggling with injuries, will look to make a mark on grass, which favours their style of speed and power. Younger players, as our cover story points out, have found it hard to do their best on grass. This year, too, it seems like the most inspiring story coming out of Wimbledon will be about the sheer grit and resolve of players like Federer and Williams.
The strength of mind, body and character that competitive sport demands is a theme that runs through this issue, whether it’s in the cover story on Wimbledon’s greats or one on a young climber attempting an audacious assault on Himalayan peaks. The issue also has a tribute to Milkha Singh, who died earlier this month; his resolve and determination remain inspiring even to generations born long after his feat at the 1960 Olympics.
Also Read | Source: The Wimbledon Connection
Our other stories in this issue are a guide to what to watch, read, eat and listen to this weekend. One deep dive into audio social apps like Clubhouse looks at how conversations flow online and whether these little cliques are just a pandemic phenomenon to pass the time.
Write to the Lounge editor at shalini.umachandran@htlive.com or on Twitter @shalinimb
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