Novak Djokovic won the first set 6-4 against unseeded Chinese player Yibing Wu in the first round of Wimbledon 2026 on Centre Court. The seven-time champion, seeded seventh this year, is chasing his 25th Grand Slam title and capitalising on a wide-open men's draw after Carlos Alcaraz withdrew due to a persistent arm injury.
First Set Battle
Djokovic broke Wu's serve to love in the ninth game, then served out the set after saving two break-back points. The set lasted 38 minutes, with Djokovic firing aces and showing deft touch at the net, including a dive-volley winner that drew applause from the crowd. Wu, ranked outside the top 100, fought hard but could not convert his opportunities.
Second Set Underway
Wu held serve to love to open the second set, levelling at 1-1 after an early exchange of holds. Djokovic struggled with his return at times, but his serve remained solid. The Chinese player showed resilience, saving break points in the third game and holding for 2-1. Djokovic responded with a love hold of his own to level at 2-2.
Djokovic's Path to the Title
Djokovic, 39, is eyeing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Defending champion Jannik Sinner needed five sets to beat Miomir Kecmanovic in the first round, while second seed and French Open winner Alexander Zverev is not at his best on grass. Djokovic's experience and form make him a strong favourite in the latter rounds, but he must first overcome Wu.
Wu's Form
Wu was beaten by Briton Jan Choinski in the opening round of Eastbourne qualifying last week and lost in the Nottingham last 16 despite being seeded third. He has shown glimpses of quality at Wimbledon, however, pushing Djokovic in the first set and holding his own in the second.
