Novak Djokovic Survives Rookie Test As Wimbledon Craves Andy Murray Magic

Novak Djokovic came through a testing Wimbledon workout to stay on course for a record-equalling eighth men's title on Thursday as Andy Murray prepared to launch his emotional farewell. Jessica Pegula became the highest-ranked player to exit the tournament so far, dumped out by China's Wang Xinyu in the second round but women's top seed Iga Swiatek cruised through. Seven-time champion Djokovic did not have it all his own way against British wild card Jacob Fearnley but came through 6-3, 6-4, 5-7, 7-5 in a match lasting three hours. It appeared to be business as usual for the Serbian as he coasted into a two-set lead on Centre Court but the 277th-ranked Fearnley broke his illustrious opponent twice in the third set to reduce the deficit.

Fearnley, playing in his first Grand Slam, carved out two break points in the sixth game of the fourth set but missed his chance and Djokovic broke in the 11th game before serving out for the win.

"I didn't have a chance to see him play," said Djokovic, 37. "Actually two days ago, I saw him for the first time

"Obviously there's always an element of surprise and with him having nothing to lose."

"Most of the British players grow up being exposed to grass courts, quick surfaces, so they know exactly how to play. It's a very windy day, very challenging conditions and I thought he served very well."

Djokovic, who is playing with protection after a recent knee operation, is seeking to equal Roger Federer's record of eight Wimbledon men's titles and is aiming for a record 25th Grand Slam title.

Fifth-ranked Pegula went down 6-4, 6-7 (7/9), 6-1 to China's Wang Xinyu, who celebrated her first win against a top-10 player.

The American battled back after losing the first set, saving a match point