Profile: Nikolay Davydenko

When the Men's Singles draw for this year's Wimbledon Championships was made, many would have been forgiven for raising an eyebrow at Andy Murray's first-round opponent, Nikolay Davydenko.

The experienced Russian is starting to enter the latter years of his career, but, as a former world number three, he is one of the few competitiors on the tour to have a winning record against the seemingly impenetrable Rafael Nadal.

His record against Murray is not too shabby either, having won four and lost five of last nine meetings with the Scot. Tuesday's encounter will also be the first time that the pair have met on grass.

Here, Sports Mole sizes up the man tasked with stopping the home favourite Murray.

Name: Nikolay Davydenko

Age: 31

Current ranking: 47

Highest ranking: 3

Career titles: 21

Grand Slams: 0

Previous best at Wimbledon: Fourth round - 2007

Playing style: A stubborn baseliner, Davydenko is strong on both his forehand and backhand. If given the time, he has the ability to push players back on court while dictating play from his own position. The backhand, which he employs in a number of different situations, tends to be his favourite shot, while his ability to take the ball early makes it difficult for opponents to find their own rhythm. However, grass is his weakest surface and the quickness of the court can be used against him.