Novak Djokovic has dispelled fears his recent injury setback could hinder his title chances at Wimbledon by producing a solid first round win.
The seven-time champion eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-2, win over qualifier Vit Kopriva, who was making his main draw debut at the age of 27. Djokovic’s relentless defensive skills and powerful ball striking proved too much for his opponent with the Serbian producing a total of 32 winners against 16 unforced errors.
Coming into the Wimbledon, Djokovic had to overcome a stern physical challenge. Whilst playing in the fourth round at the French Open, he tore the medial meniscus in his right knee and subsequently underwent surgery to address the problem. Despite this, he managed to stage a rapid recovery and showed no sign of discomfort through his 118-minute clash with Kopriva.
“I was pleased with how I felt on the court. I didn’t know how everything would unfold. Practice sessions are quite different to matches, so I’m extremely glad with how I felt and played today,” Djokovic said during his on-court interview.
“I tried to really focus on my game and not think about the knee. Everything I could possibly do, I’ve done in the last three and a half weeks to give myself a chance to play.
“If it was for any other tournament, I wouldn’t have risked it or rushed it as much. I just love Wimbledon.”
There were moments when the 24-time Grand Slam winner was put through his paces during some lengthy exchanges but he managed to come out on top in the majority of them. Even though Kopriva was giving all he had. The Czech was taking on a top-10 player for only the second time in his career and the first since 2021.
“I’ve been fortunate comparing myself to other 37 year olds. I had injuries like anybody else but they come and go.” He reflected on his physical challenges.
“It’s part of what you do. You just have to accept it and embrace it. I think Nick Kyrgios is in the commentary box. He’s been struggling a lot with injuries. Talking about major injuries, he’s had a few.
“I’ve been very fortunate to not be away from tennis for long. As an athlete I empathize with Nick and anyone who’s struggling. You almost feel helpless at times that something isn’t allowing you to come back to what you love most and you’re unable to do your profession for years.”
Djokovic has now registered a record 371 wins in major events so far in his career and is 19-0 in first round matches played at SW19. Should he go on to win the title this year, he will draw level with Roger Federer for most men’s titles won at the event.
In the second round on Thursday, he will play either British wild card Jacob Fearnley or Spanish qualifier Alejandro Moro Canas.
