The former world number one, Novak Djokovic, has breezed into the second round of Wimbledon in London.

This despite recently undergoing surgery to a knee injury he picked up at the French Open.

The seven-time champion at Wimbledon hardly broke a sweat as he thrashed Vit Kopriva of the Czech Republic, 6-1, 6-2 and 6-2 to cruise into the second round.

The 37-year-old Djokovic said he wasn’t going to let a knee hold him back.

“That was very good - I didn’t know how everything would unfold and I’m extremely pleased with how it felt,” said Djokovic about his knee following the win.

“I have done everything in the last three-and-a-half weeks to give myself a chance to play here. For any other tournament, I would not have risked it or rushed it. I just love Wimbledon. I love being here.

“I have been fortunate compared to others, avoiding major injuries. I empathise with anyone feeling that helplessness, when something is not allowing you to come back to what you love the most.

“Andy Murray withdrawing today was a great blow. Great respect to him for all he has done for this sport. I just hope he will be able to finish his career on his terms. I sent him my best, and to anyone else out there really struggling with injuries.”

Meanwhile, in other men's singles results - the 4th seeded Alexander Zverev beat Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain 6-2, 6-4 and 6-2, while the 9th seeded Alex De Minaur beat his Australian counterpart James Duckworth 7-6, 7-6 and 7-6.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s Lloyd Harris will be in action on Wednesday afternoon during the second round.

On Tuesday, Harris’s opponent for the second round was confirmed after this match was suspended on Monday evening.

Harris will face the tricky 14th ranked Ben Shelton of the USA after the latter beat Mattia Bellucci of Italy in the first round.

Shelton took this game 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 and 6-4 to set up a second round clash with Harris.

This match on Court 12 is expected to get underway at approximately 16:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport