Novak Djokovic has admitted that he ‘hopes’ to face Stan Wawrinka in the Wimbledon third round after booking his ticket with a victory over Jordan Thompson. Wawrinka, 38, faces a second-round clash against Tomas Martin Etcheverry before he can focus on a potential meeting with the 23-time Grand Slam winner.
Djokovic continued his flawless start to this year’s tournament by beating the big-serving Thompson in three sets on Centre Court. The Serb previously dispatched Pedro Cachin as he bids for a record-equalling eighth men’s crown at SW19.
He now has an anxious wait to discover who he will face to fight for a spot in round four, and Wawrinka remains a serious possibility. The Swiss veteran beat Djokovic in the finals of the 2015 French Open final and the 2016 US Open, with two-thirds of his Grand Slam triumphs coming courtesy of wins over the 36-year-old.
Speaking after his victory over Thompson on Wednesday evening, Djokovic admitted that his heart is set on one showdown in particular.
When asked what kind of role Wawrinka has played in his career, a smirking Djokovic told reporters: “Well, he took away two Grand Slams from me. That’s the role he played, beating me in two Grand Slam finals.
“No, I like Stan a lot. He’s a great person. Really always inspirational what he’s doing at his age. He’s almost 40 years old and he still keeps going strong. That’s something that not many people can do.
“After several surgeries on his knees, he keeps going strong and trying to create some more history for himself and tennis. We cannot forget that he’s a three-time Grand Slam champion and Davis Cup winner and also Olympic gold medallist. He had a fantastic career.
“That’s why I think it’s something that is very admirable and very impressive that after the difficulties, physical difficulties, he has been through in the last five, six, seven years, he still refuses to give up and still keeps going.
“One of the nicest one-handed backhands that I have ever played against, ever seen. Very powerful player. Very strong. Very complete. He can play equally well on all surfaces. I hope we get to play against each other because we haven’t faced in quite some time. It will be the duel of the veterans of the tour if it comes to that.”
Although Wawrinka would come into the prospective third-round showdown with serious pedigree, Djokovic’s latest win means he has not suffered defeat in a completed match at the All England Club since losing to Sam Querrey in 2016.
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