Novak Djokovic admits to ‘DELIBERATELY’ wanting a straight-set win over Stan Wawrinka in their Wimbledon clash

The reigning champion manages to dispatch the Swiss in straight sets right in time before the 11 pm curfew.

Novak Djokovic admits to ‘DELIBERATELY’ wanting a straight-set win over Stan Wawrinka in their Wimbledon clash

Stan Wawrinka and Novak Djokovic (Image Credits: NEWS18)

The third-round clash between Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka at Wimbledon turned out to be a one-sided affair on Centre Court. Djokovic, the seven-time Wimbledon champion, delivered a dominant performance, defeating Wawrinka in straight sets. Despite a late surge from Wawrinka, Djokovic managed to avoid the match spilling over to the following day.

“He was two points away from extending this match to another day. Coming into the court today, we knew that it was going to be really tight to finish the match today,” Djokovic said post-game. “One of us had to win in straight sets and it looked very, very good for me the first two sets. Then he raised his level, I dropped mine a little bit. And yeah, the crowd got involved. It was a good atmosphere. And hopefully you guys enjoyed it.”

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As the clock ticked towards the 11 pm curfew, Djokovic faced a crucial moment. Wawrinka led 5-3 in the tiebreak, just two points away from forcing a fourth set. However, Djokovic showed remarkable resilience and turned the tide, winning four consecutive points to seal the victory.

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In spite of the final set tiebreak hiccup, Wawrinka felt positive about his performance. “At the end I’m quite happy with my performance. At least I gave a fight at the end,” Wawrinka said.

Also read: WATCH: Andy Murray breaks down in front of Wimbledon press after being told he was DENIED a clean point against Stefanos Tsitsipas

Djokovic praises Wawrinka’s resilience and will to compete

Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka
Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka (Credits: Wimbledon and Tennis Majors)

In his post-match interview, Djokovic expressed his admiration for Wawrinka’s resilience and determination. “I have to say that it’s amazing what Stan is doing. Still his age, after several surgeries. We are two old guys fighting with the young guns. I think it’s important to acknowledge that.” Aged 38 now, the Swiss is definitely in the twilight stages of his brilliant career. Stan, however, is far from discussing retirement.

With the victory over Wawrinka, Djokovic advanced to the next round where he will face Polish player Hubert Hurkacz, the 17th seed. Hurkacz has had an underwhelming season so far. However, he has picked form in the nick of time here at Wimbledon, winning all his matches in straight sets without dropping serve. Although Djokovic holds the advantage in their head-to-head record, having won all five of their previous encounters, this could be a tricky match-up.

The two will face each other for a place in the quarterfinals on July 9th.

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