Men''s title contenders chill before the big day

By Kylie MacLellan

LONDON (Reuters) - There was barely a tennis racket in sight as British number one Andy Murray took to the practice courts at Wimbledon on Tuesday, kicking a ball about with his team before dropping to the floor to show off his dance moves.

Despite playing an epic match late into Monday night, Murray -- who will likely have to overcome three former world number ones to succeed in his quest to become the first British men''s singles champion in seven decades -- seemed full of energy.

As a big crowd of photographers snapped his every move, the Scot walked onto the court looking refreshed and relaxed, unfazed by the weight of a nation''s expectations hanging over him following his thrilling win over Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka.

With two players on each side of the court the group kicked a tennis ball back and forth over the net for about half an hour, scoring the points like a doubles match as they excitedly discussed what forfeit the losers would be subjected to.

The watching crowds did not have to wait long to find out they had settled on topless breakdancing, as the world number three soon took off his shirt and got down on the floor to show off his moves.

Having successfully proved he does not have a future career in dancing, Murray, who takes on Spanish wildcard and former world number one Juan Carlos Ferrero in his quarter-final clash on Wednesday, finally got on with some tennis.

If Murray beats Ferrero he will face either Australia''s Lleyton Hewitt or sixth seed Andy Roddick of the U.S. -- both previous world number ones -- for a place in the final, where he is tipped to meet Roger Federer, another former holder of the top spot.

LAID BACK

Murray was not the only one in a light-hearted mood ahead of Wednesday''s quarter-final clashes.

Practicing with 2.08 meter giant Ivo Karlovic, fourth seed Novak Djokovic also looked laid back, smiling as he hit a shot between his legs before pausing to play a quick game of boules with his coach as they picked up stray tennis balls.

With a towel casually slung over his shoulder the 22-year-old, who takes on Germany''s Tommy Haas for a place in the semi-finals, laughed as he pulled an old fashioned wooden racket from his bag and offered it to the Croatian.

But the 30-year-old, who faces five-time champion Federer, had a more solemn air about him as he practiced ahead of his first grand slam quarter-final.

Spending his time on court focused on the game in hand, the 22nd seed looked serious as he worked on his shots, heading straight back to the pavillion as his practice partner stopped to sign autographs and pose for photos.

Djokovic said he was pleased to take the opportunity to practice against the massive serve of Karlovic, who has racked up a tally of 137 aces in four matches.

"His serve is the best in the sport," he told reporters after the session. "It is good for me to get a feeling of it."

(Editing by Miles Evans)