Seven-time champion Novak Djokovic outclassed Dan Evans in what could be the British veteran’s final appearance at Wimbledon.
Evans, now ranked 154th in the world and given a wildcard to play at the All England Club, lost 6-3 6-2 6-0 in their second-round match.
Serb great Djokovic, 38, produced a serving masterclass which even left Evans shaking his head in disbelief at several points.
The 35-year-old home favourite, who was willed on by an encouraging Centre Court crowd, won just nine of his 58 receiving points (16%) in the match.
Djokovic, seeded sixth this year, also demonstrated why he is still one of the best returners in the men’s game by converting six of his 16 break points.
It was an impressive display from the 24-time Grand Slam champion, who is aiming to equal his rival Roger Federer’s record tally of Wimbledon men’s singles titles.
Djokovic is also trying to finally land a standalone record 25th major, having not claimed one of the sport’s most prestigious prizes since the 2023 US Open.
“Everyone knew it was going to be a special atmosphere today – a Brit in Britain is never easy to face,” said Djokovic, who earned his 99th match win at Wimbledon.
“He’s a good quality player who possesses a lot of great talent, a great touch and, with the ball staying low with the slice, it can cause trouble if you’re not at the top of your game.
“But I think was. I executed perfectly. Sometimes you have these days where everything flows.”
Djokovic’s win teed up an all-Serb contest against Miomir Kecmanovic in the third round, with a place in the last 16 on the line.
With Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal having retired, Djokovic is the last of the ‘Big Three’ still playing.
Eyeing a record 25th Grand Slam title, Djokovic said he has no time to think about joining his former rivals in retirement.
“I don’t pause to reflect, to be honest. I don’t have time,” he said.
“I think that’s going to come probably when I set the racquet aside and then sip margaritas on the beach with Federer and Nadal and just reflect on our rivalry and everything.
“If I play like today, I feel like I have a very good chance against anybody, really, on the Centre Court of Wimbledon, a place where I maybe feel the most comfortable on any court.”
