For the best part of two hours, the fading warrior looks every one of his 39 years and 51 days. But suddenly there’s a fizzing forehand, a delicate drop shot, hope. There are cries of “Nole! Nole!” Claps and cheers. And from nowhere Centre Court resembles a revivalist meeting.
He couldn’t, could he? Novak Djokovic might be two sets down. Jannik Sinner might be outslugging him and pushing him back. But the greatest returner in tennis history has his first break point at last, and Wimbledon is desperate for an old-time miracle.
