Djokovic overcomes Wu Yibing in four sets to open Wimbledon 2026 campaign
Novak Djokovic launched his bid for a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title with a 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 win over China's Wu Yibing in a Centre Court clash that lasted three hours and 11 minutes and featured an in-stands marriage proposal.
Novak Djokovic defeated Wu Yibing in four sets on Centre Court, advancing to the second round of Wimbledon. The 39-year-old Serbian needed three hours and 11 minutes to subdue the world No. 102, who pushed him to a tense second set. After trading the opening two sets, Djokovic broke late in the third and again in the fourth to seal victory.
It felt really challenging today, Wu deserves a round of applause for his incredible performance. As for how I'm feeling, I'm feeling happy but not the freshest I guess. It didn't feel like the first round to be honest.
Roof change and tricky conditions
After the match, Djokovic noted the effect of the Centre Court roof closing after two sets, saying the conditions changed and the grass became more slippery. The Serbian explained that adapting to the closed roof was not easy once the points got underway.
It felt like we played two different matches; one with the open roof and the closed roof. It affects the conditions and the moisture of the grass. It becomes more slippery, so you have to adjust and adapt to that but it's not easy because once you're in the point you want to give your best.
Record chase remains on track
The win preserved Djokovic's perfect first-round record at Wimbledon, now 21-0. The seven-time champion is aiming to equal Roger Federer's men's record of eight All England Club titles and surpass Margaret Court's all-time Grand Slam record with a 25th major.
Marriage proposal interrupts play
During the match, a spectator proposed to his partner in the stands. Djokovic, noticing the moment, paused to acknowledge the couple with a heart gesture and gave his blessing. He later quipped that he wants an invitation to the wedding.
Voglio un invito al matrimonio.
(I want an invitation to the wedding.)
Next opponent: Tsitsipas
Djokovic will face Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round. The pair have not met since 2024; Djokovic leads their head-to-head 12-2. Tsitsipas, like Djokovic, advanced in straight sets.
Elsewhere at Wimbledon
Daniil Medvedev and Felix Auger-Aliassime progressed in straight sets. Casper Ruud and Andrey Rublev were eliminated, with Rublev falling in a fifth-set super tie-break 14-12 to qualifier Roman Safiullin.
