‘I just love coming back to Wimbledon’published at 17:28
Kopriva 1-6 2-6 2-6 Djokovic
Second seed Novak Djokovic speaking after beating Vit Kopriva: “Obviously coming into Wimbledon for me this year was very different because of the knee. I’m just really glad with how I played and how I felt on the court. I didn’t know how everything was going to unfold on the court. I’m extremely glad with the way I felt and the way I played today. Thank you all for coming out and supporting.”
On how he found playing after recent knee surgery: “I tried to really focus on the game and not think about the knee too much. Everything that I could do, I have done over the last three weeks along with my team to be able to play here for you today. I think if it was for any other tournament I probably would not have risked it, would not have rushed as much but I just love Wimbledon, love coming back here.
“I want to thank my surgeon again for doing a great job. Things would be a bit complicated [without successful surgery] to be able to play on the highest level and avoid major injuries has been good. I’ve been fortunate to not be away from the tennis for so long.”
On players suffering tough injuries: “It’s tough, you feel helpless that something is not allowing you to do what you love the most. Andy Murray withdrawing is a great blow to the tournament, it’s unfortunate. Great respect to him for what he has done in this tournament and this sport. I just hope he will be able to finish his career on his terms. I send him my best and to anybody out there really struggling with injuries, I think it is worth acknowledging all these athletes who are struggling.”