Wimbledon marks the halfway point of what has already been an exciting 2012 season of tennis. It also marks the first time in history that ESPN is handling TV coverage for the entire event.

The men's side features three clear favorites: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. Between the three of them, they own 28 out of the last 29 major titles, and this year's Wimbledon isn't the one to break up the cycle. 

The women's side, on the other hand, is wide open. There have been six different champions in each of the last six majors, and it wouldn't surprise me in the least to see a different winner at this year's Wimbledon. 

Here are a few matches that you won't want to miss in Round No. 1.

Serena Williams (6) vs. Barbora Zahlavova Strycova

After Williams was unceremoniously dumped in the first round at Roland Garros, she'll be out to prove her worth. She's won at Wimbledon four times in the past, but her last victory came two years ago, and she has a lot to prove.

Strycova shouldn't be a huge test for her in the first round, but after what happened at the French Open, anything's possible. 

Novak Djokovic (1) vs. Juan Carlos Ferrero

Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

Djokovic is attempting to repeat here after winning the 2011 Wimbledon title.

There's not much of a chance that Ferrero will beat Djokovic here, but he's had some success here at Wimbledon in the past. 

This match is worth watching primarily because it features the Djoker. He's phenomenal on hard courts, and if you're a fan of watching good tennis he won't disappoint you. 

Roger Federer (3) vs. Albert Ramos

If Federer wins another Wimbledon, he'll tie Pete Sampras for the most-ever titles with seven. 

It will be a tough task for FedEx to overcome the obstacles in his way, chiefly Djokovic if he reaches the semifinals, but any time this legendary player sets foot on the grass at Wimbledon it's a match worth watching. 

For a complete listing of ESPN's broadcast schedule, check our convenient listing below:

Daily TV Schedule for Wimbledon 2012

Follow @JesseReed78