As a six-times champion here Novak Djokovic has experienced most things it is possible to feel at Wimbledon. But when he stepped on to court today he did so with a little trepidation, unsure what to expect from himself after not playing any grass-court warm-up tournaments and unsure what to expect from the crowd.
His much-publicised decision not to be vaccinated against Covid‑19 was not well received in Britain, with many asking if he should even be allowed to play. The dropping of Covid-19 restrictions in Britain ended that discussion and on Monday, he enjoyed a genuinely warm reception as he made his way out for the defence of his title.
