Janice Tjen of Indonesia serves to McCartney Kessler of the United States during the Credit One Charleston Open at Credit One Stadium on April 1, 2026 in Charleston, South Carolina. Matthew Stockman, Getty Images/AFP/File
LONDON -- Janice Tjen is embracing another opportunity to test herself against a familiar opponent as she prepares to face 22nd seed Leylah Fernandez in the opening round of Wimbledon.
The Indonesian will take on the former US Open finalist for the third time this year, having already met Fernandez twice earlier in 2026.
Despite the familiarity, Tjen said she is keeping her focus simple.
"I don't think too much," Tjen said during a media session before the match. "I'm just going to try my best and see what's going to happen."
"I played her twice this year. It's my third time. We should be familiar with each other and see what's going to happen."
Left-handed Fernandez presents another unique challenge, but Tjen got valuable preparation by practicing with fellow lefty Alexandra Eala practicing with the Filipina Sunday .
"It was really fun. I thought it was a great practice," she said. "I'm playing a lefty and I practiced with Alex. I think it was a good preparation, I would say. To play against a lefty and practice with another lefty. I thought it was really fun... Just trying to prepare for tomorrow."
In terms of playing with Alex, she said: "I think definitely she had amazing success on grass."
Although Tjen did not enjoy strong results during the lead-up tournaments on grass, she believes her comfort level on the surface has steadily improved with each passing week.
"The results probably say otherwise," she admitted. "I think I perform better each week from Birmingham all the way to Eastbourne. I would say I'm starting to feel a bit more comfortable on grass."
The 24-year old said she has also gained a better understanding of how to use her game effectively on the lawns, particularly with her slice, serve and willingness to attack the net.
"I think I learned a bit more with how my slice is going to be on this surface. Same with serving," she said. "When to come in and when to put in serve and volley. Just being aggressive and trying to take the net early."
As with every opponent, Tjen and her team have reviewed previous matches against Fernandez to identify what worked and what adjustments can be made heading into Monday's contest.
"We always try to watch any opponents that I'm going to play... to see what works the best and try to implement that tomorrow."
Beyond the competition, Tjen has quickly fallen in love with the atmosphere at the All England Club, describing Wimbledon as unlike any other tournament.
"I think classy is the best word to fit into Wimbledon. I think it's very, very pretty and nice. I really enjoy being here."