Djokovic triumphs over Wawrinka, sets up encounter with Hurkacz

Novak Djokovic emerged victorious in the third round of the 2023 Wimbledon against Stan Wawrinka by 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(5).

Under the roof of Centre Court, the 23-time Grand Slam champion faced off against three-time Grand Slam winner Stan Wawrinka. Wawrinka entered the match with solid victories over Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori and 29th seed Tomás Etcheverry. On the other hand, 'Nole' defeated Pedro Cachín in the first round and then Jordan Thompson before meeting Wawrinka.

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In the first set, Djokovic took an early lead and had three break points in the second game, which the Swiss managed to save to keep the score level. However, Djokovic secured the crucial break in the sixth game, which proved to be enough to maintain the advantage.

Djokovic won 80% of his service points, hit 8 winners, and made 7 unforced errors, while Wawrinka won 58% of his service points, hit three winners, and made 9 unforced errors.

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The second set started off on the wrong foot for the former world No. 3 as he lost his serve twice in a row, allowing Djokovic to take a commanding 4-0 lead. Djokovic then consolidated the advantage with his serve, comfortably winning the set 6-1 in just 31 minutes.

'Stan the Man' struggled with his serve, only landing 39% of his first serves, winning 27% of those points, and 47% with his second serve. He also failed to convert any break points and committed 8 unforced errors. In contrast, Djokovic was relentless on his serve, hitting 12 winners with 8 unforced errors.

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In the third set, Wawrinka showcased his best level, holding his serve without facing any break points until the match reached a tie-break. Djokovic secured the first mini-break in the third point of the tie-break, and although he was up 3-1, Wawrinka managed to return the mini-break and took a 5-3 lead. However, Djokovic won the next four consecutive points, including two breaks of Wawrinka's serve, to claim the third and decisive set at the All England Club.

In the round of 16, Djokovic will face the 17th seed Hubert Hurkacz, who defeated Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets.