WIMBLEDON: Novak Djokovic has kicked-off his title defense at the Wimbledon Championships with a 6-3, 7-5, 6-3, win over Phillip Kohlschreiber.
The world No.1 headed into the match with a perfect record when it comes to playing first round matches at the All England Club, but he was aware of the threat he faced. Having lost to Kohlschreiber earlier this year in Indian Wells. Although he has scored a duo on wins over the German in 2019.
“It felt great (to return to center court). It’s a sacred court, the cradle of our sport for sure, it has a very special place in my heart.” Djokovic told BBC Sport afterward.
Despite the potential test that beckoned, the Serbian passed with flying colors with the help of a solid display. Blasting 37 winners and 12 aces past the world No.57 and dropping just eight points behind his first serve.
“The first opening rounds are always tricky. If you get a quality opponent like Kohlschreiber, who has a lot of experience and beat me earlier this year. I know he is capable of playing some good quality tennis – especially on the grass.” He said.
“It was a great test for me. I did win in straight sets, but they were all really close.”
The first two sets followed a similar pattern with Djokovic being forced to come back from a break down. An expected situation for a player who has not participated in any ATP grass-court tournaments prior to Wimbledon. Something he has chosen to do in seven out of the past 10 years. Nevertheless, the top seed had the edge both mentally and physically. Taking advantage of some costly mistakes from across the count at crucial moments during the match.
Charging to a 6-3, 7-5, lead, the third frame saw Djokovic continue to battle hard on the court. Struggling to pull away from a relentless Kohlschreiber. It was in the seventh game where he secured a breakthrough before going on to seal victory on his first match point. Hitting a clean forehand winner.
Claiming his 66th victory at Wimbledon, Djokovic is aiming to win the tournament for the fifth time and win it back-to-back for the second time in his career.
Djokovic will play America’s Denis Kudla next, who defeated Malek Jaziri in his opening match.
