Djokovic Battles Past Muller to Reach Wimbledon Second Round

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic overcame a mid-match slump to defeat unseeded Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-1, 6-7(7), 6-2, 6-2 and advance to the second round of the prestigious tournament on Tuesday.

The sixth-seeded Serbian, who is chasing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, is now set to face British wild card Dan Evans in the next round.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think I have a chance, to be honest,” Djokovic said. “I’ve earned my right to feel I can go all the way to the title.”

Djokovic, who recently won his 100th tour-level title in Geneva and reached the French Open semi-finals, made a dominant start by sweeping the first set. However, Muller fought back in the second, saving five breakpoints to stay in contention and eventually forcing a tiebreak. The Frenchman rallied from 2-5 down to snatch the set and level the match.

The momentum briefly swung in Muller’s favour before Djokovic took a medical timeout early in the third set due to a stomach issue. After a brief pause and treatment, the 37-year-old regained control.

“I went from feeling my absolute best for a set and a half to my absolute worst for about 45 minutes,” Djokovic revealed. “Whether it was a stomach bug, I don’t know… but the energy kicked back in after some doctor’s miracle pills.”

With the Centre Court roof closed and conditions stabilised, Djokovic broke for 3-2 in the third after Muller’s sixth double fault, then cruised through the remainder of the match with precise shot-making and improved energy levels.

Now eyeing an eighth Wimbledon crown to equal Roger Federer’s record at the All England Club, Djokovic is confident but cautious, noting the strength of the competition.

“There are many fantastic players in the draw… It’s just the beginning,” he said.