THE SIDELINES : Lendl Focuses on Wimbledon Win

Ivan Lendl said today he is prepared to sacrifice his No. 1 ranking and all other tournaments next year to fulfill his dream of winning a Wimbledon singles title.

Lendl reiterated his decision to pass up the French Open next May and train in Australia in a bid to win tennis’ most prized trophy, which so far has eluded him.

After arriving for this week’s Australian Indoor tennis championships, Lendl said Boris Becker’s threat to his No. 1 ranking this year was not concerning him as much as winning Wimbledon.

“I am more worried about winning in England,” said Lendl, who was beaten by Becker in the semifinals there this year. “If I can win in England, he (Becker) can win everything else. That’s fine with me.”