You can imagine the thoughts that ran through our heads as the defending champion disappeared from view.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
As he flew into sharp corners, it seemed the defending champion had taken leave of his senses.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
At this stage the defending champion had lost a mere 11 games in four matches and looked invincible.
Barrett, J (ed) ITF World of Tennis (1993)
But the defending champion smacked over a running backhand which almost knocked the Slovenian off his feet.
The Sun (2014)