Djokovic Searching for Ways to “Beat the Clock” for Eighth Wimbledon Title

Novak Djokovic is still finding ways to “beat the clock”, both personally and professionally, as he starts his quest for an eighth Wimbledon singles title.

The No. 7 seed Djokovic defeated China’s Wu Yibing 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 in his opening round match on Centre Court before the Wimbledon curfew time of 11 p.m. 

In a match that featured celebrity sightings and a wedding proposal, it was the 39-year-old Djokovic who once again showed his determination to figure out ways to outlast “Father Time”, one more time, as he goes in search of a record 25th career major singles title. 

But even Djokovic admitted that time may be running out for that elusive 25th major title. And he’s searching for the right formula to do just that.

“You know, he (Wu) had many break points, and look, you know, at playing on this surface, these kind of matches are decided  in few points, few shots,” Djokovic said after the match. “And thankfully, I have an experience of the last twenty plus years of playing in this court that can help me a little bit manage the situation. But, yeah, it would be nice to combine an experience with a new, young, fresh body. That would be really a winning formula. But, yeah, I want to thank everyone for staying this late.” 

Djokovic and Wu split the first two sets as the evening set in London. As Wu, ranked World No. 102, began winning more points, the crowd began yelling “Wu!” in support. That vocal support definitely annoyed Djokovic, but it also seemed to fuel him to prove he had another gear.

Though the Centre Court roof was later closed due to dimming light, Djokovic and Wu still continued to battle. Wu’s big hitting frustrated Djokovic throughout the closely fought contest.

Djokovic managed to take the third set. With the fourth set also very close, it was then that Djokovic using his experience to take control.

With the Wimbledon 11 p.m. curfew clock ticking, Djokovic put the foot on the gas late in the fourth set.

He secured the pivotal service break at 4-all. From there, he served out the four set win that continues his 100% win rate in 21 first round matches at Wimbledon.

Djokovic complimented Wu after the match, saying, “He put me under a lot of pressure.” Djokovic added. “He definitely surprised me with the level of every shot he had in his game from his return serves, forehand, backhand.”

“At some points he didn’t really have a weakness,” he added.

Next up for Djokovic is Stefanos Tsitsipas, whom he defeated in the 2021 Roland Garros and 2023 Australian Open finals.