Novak Djokovic completed his first Wimbledon match without any problems. © ANSA / NEIL HALL

Djokovic starts successfully at Wimbledon

Less than a month after his knee surgery, Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic has won his first round match at Wimbledon.

July 02, 2024

From: dpa/apa/tu

The 37-year-old won clearly against the Czech qualifier Vit Kopriva with 6:1, 6:2, 6:2. The world number two played with a bandage on his right knee, but was able to save energy in view of the clear result.

"I'm very happy with how I felt on the court. I didn't know what it really felt like on the court. Training is different than a match," said Djokovic. He tried to concentrate on the game and not think so much about his knee.

Vit Kopriva (right) didn't have much to say in response. © APA/afp / ANDREJ ISAKOVIC

Djokovic has triumphed at Wimbledon seven times so far. After his 2023 final defeat to Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, the Serb is aiming for his eighth title on grass this year, catching up with the retired Swiss record champion Roger Federer.

Zverev on course

Alexander Zverev also completed his first round task in Wimbledon with ease. Three weeks after losing the French Open final, the 27-year-old German started the third Grand Slam tournament of the season with a comfortable 6:2,6:4,6:2 win against Roberto Carballes Baena from Spain.

Alexander Zverev is also in the second round. © APA/afp / GLYN KIRK

The world number four converted the first match point after 1:53 hours. While the matches on the outdoor courts had to be interrupted several times on a rainy day in London, Zverev played his match on the second largest court under a closed roof.

Also included are Hubert Hurkacz (3:1 against Radu Albot), Lorenzo Musetti (3:1 against Constant Lestienne), Holger Rune (3:0 against Soon Woo Kwon) and Stefanos Tsitsipas (3:0 against Taro Daniel).