Who is James Duckworth? Australian tennis player's ranking and career earnings to date

James Duckworth faces former world number one Andy Murray on the first day of play at Wimbledon today (June 27). The 30-year-old tennis player from Sydney, Australia, has previously competed at the tournament five times.

He enjoyed his best year at SW19 in 2021, when he reached the third round after defeating Sam Querrey. As is the case with Murray, Duckworth has faced problems with his hip in the run-up to the grand slam, according to the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP). He had surgery on the joint in January of this year.

His record against Murray is 0-2 in the Briton's favour. Their last professional meeting was at the 2019 Brisbane International, where he lost 3–6, 4–6.

Duckworth is currently ranked number 74 in the world for singles. This is down from his career-high position of 46, which he achieved on January 31, 2022.

The Australian's biggest win to date was at last year's Miami Open, where he defeated world number seven David Goffin. He is unranked for doubles.

Duckworth plays right-handed, with a two-handed backhand. He turned pro in 2010 and is currently coached by Australian former tennis player Wayne Arthurs.

Despite losing all seven ATP ranking matches of his year so far, Duckworth has earned $223,969 (£181,811) in the first half of 2022. It forms less than a tenth of his $2,905,237 (£2,358,820) total career earnings to date.

All Wimbledon players are guaranteed to earn £50,000 for taking part in round one, even if they lose.