Novak Djokovic was, like Andy Murray, a doubt for Wimbledon.
I tried to really focus on the game and not think about the knee too much. Everything that I could do, I have done over the last three weeks along with my team to be able to play here. I think if it was for any other tournament I probably would not have risked it, Novak Djokovic
But, unlike British two-time champion Murray, he was able to declare himself fit to play.
And boy did the Serbian, 37 and a week younger than the Scot, look fit.
Admittedly, the task before him looked on paper, a comfortable one as he began his campaign to try and lift his eighth title and become the most successful men’s singles play of all-time at The Championships alongside Roger Federer.
It was a match-up with Czech qualifier Vit Kopriva, a 27-year-old who was making his main draw debut at the third attempt.
And a “really glad” Djokovic made short work of it, dismissing his opponent 6-1 6-2 6-2 with his serve, return and body seemingly in full working order.
Any sign that the operation he had on his knee, specifically a torn medial meniscus on 5th June, damaged at the recent French Open appeared non-existent as he rattled through to victory.
And he will now face home ace Jacob Fearnley, a wild card, for a place in the last 32.
Djokovic, donning a knee support on his right leg, sailed through the opening set after sealing a sixth break point in the fourth game of it. And he broke the Czech three more times to seal the win.
Djokovic, the winner of a record 24 majors, said: “Obviously coming into Wimbledon for me this year was very different because of the knee. I’m just really glad with how I played and how I felt on the court. I didn’t know how everything was going to unfold on the court.
“I tried to really focus on the game and not think about the knee too much. Everything that I could do, I have done over the last three weeks along with my team to be able to play here. I think if it was for any other tournament I probably would not have risked it, would not have rushed as much but I just love Wimbledon, love coming back here.
“I want to thank my surgeon again for doing a great job. Things would be a bit complicated [but for the operation] to be able to play on the highest level and avoid major injuries has been good. I’ve been fortunate to not be away from the tennis for so long.
“It’s tough (getting injuries), you feel helpless that something is not allowing you to do what you love the most.”
And he paid tribute to contemporary Murray, the two-time champion who pulled out injured as Djokovic took to the court, said: “Andy Murray withdrawing is a great blow to the tournament, it’s unfortunate. Great respect to him for what he has done in this tournament and this sport. I just hope he will be able to finish his career on his terms. I send him my best and to anybody out there really struggling with injuries, I think it is worth acknowledging all these athletes who are struggling.”
