Sampras set for Wimbledon examination

Pete Sampras was today facing a severe test of his Wimbledon credentials in his first-round clash with Britain’s Martin Lee.

The 30-year-old’s preparations have been hampered by a back injury picked up during practice for an exhibition match on Saturday.

Sampras asked for a Tuesday start for his campaign to win an eighth men’s singles title, but it came too late to change the order of play.

‘‘As a result of sustaining an acute strain in the right lower ribs on Saturday, Pete Sampras requested a Tuesday start,’’ said referee Alan Mills.

‘‘Since we had already determined his half of the draw would play on Monday, we were unable to grant this particular request.

‘‘However, as is the case with all players who ask for a late start, we were able to help him by putting him on third match on Monday.’’

It means Lee will surely never have a better chance to claim a famous scalp, with Sampras’ air of invincibility on grass already greatly diminished.

His 31-match Wimbledon winning streak was ended in the fourth round by Roger Federer last year, and he amazingly lost a Davis Cup tie on grass from two sets up against Spain’s Alex Corretja in Houston earlier this year.