Novak Djokovic On Fire and Jack Draper Through In Thriller
Wimbledon
July 2, 2024
Novak Djokovic in full flow is still one of the great sights in sport. And he is certainly worth every penny if you can catch him on Centre Court before it’s too late.
Only a few weeks ago, he seemed too injured to be considered a contender at the All England Club.
Now the best player of all time is showing signs that he might not be done with Grand Slam titles just yet.
Novak Djokovic could win an impossible 25th major at Wimbledon 2024. He could write his name in history as the undisputed greatest.
It’s early days in this particular Wimbledon fortnight. But his 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 victory over Vit Kopriva under the Centre Court roof showed us that he remains a warrior with a tremendous desire.
‘I’m very happy with the way I played and how I felt physically,’ said Djokovic afterwards. Simple words but ominous enough perhaps for his rivals.
For one former Wimbledon champion the tournament is over, however. Last year’s winner of the women’s singles is on her way home.
Marketa Vondrousova couldn’t have expected such a fight from Spanish qualifier Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. But the underdog won 6-4, 6-2. And it’s thirty years since a reigning queen of Wimbledon has been unseated so unceremoniously.
Poor Andy Murray announced that he was unable to play singles at his last Wimbledon. But British number one Jack Draper took his place on the Centre Court stage and produced some marvellous entertainment.
He eventually edged Swedish hot-shot Elias Ymer 3-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3. And he told the Centre Court spectators: ‘Andy Murray is one of a kind. So genuine and funny. I wouldn’t be here without him.’
Draper faces Cameron Norrie in an all-British second-round battle. That should provide more incredible entertainment.
Novak Djokovic plays another Brit called Jacob Fearnley next. And if the Serb keeps conserving energy, he could yet win Wimbledon 2024.
Will you be there to see one of the world’s greatest sportsmen try for the ultimate prize?
We’re waiting for your call.