Novak Djokovic sees off Wu Yibing in Round 1 as draft adds to Wimbledon spectacle

Novak Djokovic began his quest for a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title in winning fashion on Monday, beating China’s Wu Yibing 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 in a hard-fought first-round clash that also featured a memorable marriage proposal in the stands on Center Court.

After playing the opening set, Djokovic’s attention was briefly diverted from tennis when a spectator proposed to his girlfriend in the crowd. The seven-time Wimbledon champion responded with a heart gesture and two thumbs up before shouting: “I want a wedding invitation”, prompting loud cheers from the center court crowd.

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The lighthearted moment came just days after Djokovic appeared on stage with Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny during the artist’s concert in London. Bad Bunny, who watched the game from the Serbian players’ box, had another connection to the proposal after appearing at a wedding ceremony held during this year’s Super Bowl halftime show.

BATTLE IN THE YARD

After play resumed, Djokovic was forced to work much harder than the opening set suggested. Chasing a solo record 25th Grand Slam title to get past Margaret Court, the 39-year-old looked comfortable early on before Wu raised his level significantly.

The Chinese player, returning to Grand Slam competition after two injury-plagued seasons, grabbed the second set and continued to pressure Djokovic with fearless baseline strokes. Wu leveled the Serbian’s stride for much of the third set before Djokovic found a crucial break to move back in front.

The fourth set proved equally challenging as Wu refused to back down despite mounting pressure. Djokovic eventually secured the decisive break for a 5-4 lead after Wu sent overhead long before serving out the match to complete a physically draining victory. Djokovic celebrates winning the opening round of Wimbledon. (Image: Reuters)

Despite losing the set, Djokovic finished with 15 aces and won 75 percent of his first serve points, relying on his experience in the biggest moments to overcome a spirited challenge.

The victory keeps Djokovic’s pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon crown firmly on track and sets up a sensational second-round showdown with Stefanos Tsitsipas as the Serb continues his bid to add another chapter to his remarkable Grand Slam legacy.

– The end

Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

30 Jun 2026 03:29 IST