On a day when other big names were hard-pressed, Novak Djokovic processed imperiously to the third round as the 39-year-old seeks a record-breaking 25th grand slam title.
At times he was almost flawless as he dismantled Stefanos Tsitsipas, 12 years his junior but who was overwhelmed in straight sets, 6-3 6-4 6-2.
Tsitsipas’ first serves were strong but Djokovic pounced on his second serves and in each of the sets when the chance came to break he seized it ruthlessly.
A bright moment for the 27-year-old Greek came when he powered a forehand round the net to beat Djokovic. But he needed to sustain that level of excellence to challenge the Serb, given the kind of form Djokovic found on Wednesday.
He was simply too good, landing outstanding returns to confound Tsitsipas’ best efforts.
“I like the terminology ‘vintage’. It’s nice. It brings back the best days,” Djokovic said after his victory.
“That game when I went 5-2 up [in the third set] was one of the best returning games I’ve played in a while.
“I feel great. I’ve said this so many times before, I try not to take these moments for granted playing at the Centre Court of the childhood dream tournament.
“I feel very privileged to be walking out on the court at the age, 30+.
“Age is just a number…”
