Japan’s Kimiko Date-Krumm continues to defy her age when she cruised past German qualifier Carina Witthoeft 6-0, 6-2 in the first round on Tuesday to advance at the Wimbledon 2013 Championships.
The 42-year old overwhelmed her 18-year old opponent with her impressive play. The Japanese veteran rushed to the net at times which proved to be a winning tactic.
“I was surprised,” Date-Krumm said. “But I played Birmingham on grass, then I had good practice time in Aorangi Park here. I was in good condition. I’m feeling good physically. And my tennis wasn’t so bad. I felt very good when I went on the court today, but still I was surprised the match went so quickly.”
Earlier this year at the Australian Open, Date-Krumm reached the third round, becoming the second oldest player in the Open Era to reach this stage. Same case here in Wimbledon, she became the second oldest player to reach the second round since 47-year old Martina Navratilova did it in 2004.