Page "Richard Krajicek" Paragraph 4

Coming to Wimbledon in 1996, Krajicek had never previously progressed beyond the fourth round, and had lost in the first round in the two previous years.

He was seen a player with potential, having one of the fastest serves at the time, but was not considered to be a strong contender for the title.

The clear favourite was Pete Sampras, who had won the title for the past three consecutive years.

Despite being ranked within the world's top 16, Krajicek just missed out on the seedings for the tournament, but when seventh seed ( and world number two ) Thomas Muster pulled out shortly before the tournament due to an injury, Krajicek was given Muster's place in the draw.