Wimbledon 2016: Novak Djokovic to open defence against James Ward

Top seed Novak Djokovic will begin the defence of his Wimbledon title when the tournament gets under way on Monday.

The world number one opens play on Centre Court at 13:00 BST against Britain's James Ward.

Djokovic arrives at the All England Club as the new French Open champion, holder of all four Grand Slam titles and on course for the first calendar-year Slam since Rod Laver in 1969.

The 29-year-old is a strong favourite to become only the fourth man in the Open era to win a hat-trick of Wimbledon titles.

"The situation this year is quite different because I'm coming in with a Roland Garros title for the first time," said Djokovic. "That gives me a lot of confidence."

Asked about facing a British player in his opening match, Djokovic said: "It's going to be the first match on the untouched grass.

"That's probably one of the most special matches that you get to experience."

Federer, 35, is the number three seed and so expected to face Djokovic in the semi-finals, although the Swiss lacks his usual number of matches after struggling with with injuries all year.