Novak Djokovic secured his place in the second round of Wimbledon 2025 after a hard-fought victory over Alexandre Muller. The match, which lasted for three hours and nineteen minutes, saw Djokovic overcome a mid-match slump to win 6-1, 6-7(7-9), 6-2, 6-2.
Djokovic started strong, but the unseeded Frenchman leveled the match by taking the second set tie-break. During the third set, Djokovic called for a medical timeout, revealing that he felt his "absolute worst" for about 45 minutes due to stomach pain. He was twice visited by a doctor for a stomach issue. According to Djokovic, he was given what he called “miracle pills” for stomach discomfort.
"I went from feeling my absolute best for a set and a half to my absolute worst for about 45 minutes," Djokovic said. "Whether it was a stomach bug — I don't know what it is, but just struggled with that. The energy kind of kicked back after some doctor's miracle pills and I managed to finish the match on a good note".
After receiving the medication, Djokovic regained his composure and went on to win the third and fourth sets. He expressed gratitude for the effectiveness of the pills, which he credited with helping him recover his energy and finish the match strongly. "I don't know what it was. I managed to finish the match on a good note after some doctors' miracle pills,” Djokovic stated.
Djokovic's victory marks his 20th consecutive win in the opening round at the All England Club. A seven-time Wimbledon champion, he is aiming to equal Roger Federer's record of eight titles. He has reached the final in the last six editions of Wimbledon, but lost to Carlos Alcaraz in both 2023 and 2024.
Despite not feeling like the outright favorite this year, Djokovic asserted his belief in his chances of winning. "I wouldn't be here if I didn't think I had a chance. I think I always have a chance. I think I earned my right to really feel like I can go all the way to the title," the 38-year-old Serbian said.
Djokovic will face British wildcard Dan Evans in the second round. He acknowledged Evans' skill on grass, stating, "Dan is a very tricky player. Very smart around the court. Great hands. Obviously loves playing on grass. It's his surface. I expect a tough match".
Djokovic's performance at Wimbledon 2025 is particularly significant as he seeks a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Having been stuck on 24 since the US Open in 2023, this tournament presents a major opportunity for him to surpass Margaret Court's all-time record.