Novak Djokovic sees off Wu Yibing in Round 1 as proposal adds to Wimbledon spectacle

Novak Djokovic began his quest for a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title in winning fashion on Monday, defeating China's Wu Yibing 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 in a hard-fought first-round contest that also featured a memorable marriage proposal in the Centre Court stands.

After taking the opening set, Djokovic's attention briefly shifted away from the tennis when a spectator proposed to his girlfriend in the crowd. The seven-time Wimbledon champion responded with a heart gesture and two thumbs up before shouting, "I want an invitation to the wedding," drawing loud cheers from the Centre Court crowd.

Wimbledon 2026 Day 1: Highlights

The light-hearted moment came just days after Djokovic appeared on stage with Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny during the artist's concert in London. Bad Bunny, who watched the match from the Serbian's player box, had another connection to the proposal after featuring in a wedding ceremony staged during this year's Super Bowl halftime show.

BATTLE ON COURT

Once play resumed, Djokovic was forced to work much harder than the opening set had suggested. The 39-year-old, chasing a standalone record 25th Grand Slam title to move past Margaret Court, looked comfortable early before Wu raised his level significantly.

The Chinese player, making his return to Grand Slam competition after two injury-plagued seasons, snatched the second set and continued to push Djokovic with fearless baseline hitting. Wu matched the Serbian stride for stride through much of the third set before Djokovic found the crucial break to edge back in front.

The fourth set proved equally demanding, with Wu refusing to back down despite the mounting pressure. Djokovic finally secured the decisive break for a 5-4 lead after Wu sent an overhead long, before serving out the match to complete a physically draining victory.

Despite dropping a set, Djokovic finished with 15 aces and won 75 per cent of points behind his first serve, relying on his experience in the biggest moments to overcome a spirited challenge.

The victory keeps Djokovic's pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon crown firmly on track and sets up a blockbuster second-round clash against Stefanos Tsitsipas, as the Serbian continues his bid to add another chapter to his remarkable Grand Slam legacy.