Novak Djokovic kicked off his campaign for a record 25th Grand Slam title with a hard-fought 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-4 victory over China's Wu Yibing at Wimbledon. The 39-year-old Serb, who hasn't played since losing to Joao Fonseca at the French Open, faced unexpected resistance on Centre Court. "It felt really challenging for me today," Djokovic admitted after the three-hour-12-minute match.

Djokovic's experience showed as he saved six break points in the fourth set despite mounting unforced errors. Wu matched him shot-for-shot, with the Serbian even acknowledging his opponent's complete lack of weaknesses. The crowd embraced both players, chanting Wu's name throughout the electric atmosphere under the roof. Three-time champion John McEnroe praised Djokovic's continued fire and intensity, calling it remarkable that he still wants it this badly at 39.

Both players traded heavy groundstrokes in lengthy baseline rallies, with Djokovic's fitness tested by Wu's relentless return. The seventh seed celebrated his win by mimicking playing a violin - a tribute to his daughter - while fans gave Wu a standing ovation for the entertaining contest.

Djokovic's reward is a second-round clash with Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas, whom he previously defeated in the 2021 French Open and 2023 Australian Open finals. The victory keeps his perfect 21-0 first-round record at SW19 intact as he chases sole ownership of the Grand Slam record.