Novak Djokovic overcame a mysterious stomach ailment to defeat Alexandre Muller 6-1, 6-7 (7-9), 6-2, 6-2 in his Wimbledon first-round match on Centre Court.
The seven-time champion cruised through the opening set before experiencing what he described as going from feeling his "absolute best" to his "absolute worst" for approximately 45 minutes during the second set.
Despite dominating early proceedings and creating 11 break points in the second set, Djokovic faltered badly in the tie-break, squandering six opportunities to take a two-set lead.
The Serbian's unexpected struggles transformed what appeared to be a routine victory into a gruelling contest lasting nearly three and a half hours.
Novak Djokovic progressed to the second-round for the 20th time
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The 37-year-old Serbian attributed his mid-match difficulties to what he suspected was a stomach bug, though he remained uncertain about the exact cause.
He revealed that he took some "doctor's miracle pills" which helped restore his energy levels.
"I knew something was off with the stomach, but I never thought about quitting," Djokovic said after the match, praising Muller for his fighting spirit in the second set.
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The 38-year-old was suffering with a mysterious stomach bug that led him to 'feeling the worst'
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The 20-minute delay for closing the roof provided crucial respite for the sixth seed, who was seen receiving an electrolyte drink from his entourage.
This break proved pivotal as Djokovic rediscovered his rhythm under the lights.
Djokovic highlighted his serving performance as a key factor in his recovery, noting he "served very well today" and saved crucial break points in the fourth set.
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"I have been trying to get as many free points on the first serve as I can," he explained, emphasising how this made his "life on the court a lot easier" on the fast grass surface.
The Serbian expressed gratitude to the crowd for staying late and creating an "amazing atmosphere" after the roof closed.
When asked about his championship prospects, he responded emphatically: "I wouldn't be here if I didn't think I had a chance."
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His opponent Alexandre Muller put up a stern test against the Serb
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Djokovic acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting he would face "a Brit next round and that's going to be tough but I'm looking forward to it."
His second-round opponent will be Dan Evans on Thursday.
The victory extended Djokovic's remarkable Wimbledon first-round record to 20 wins from 20 appearances.
Despite falling at the first hurdle in four of five tournaments this season, the Serbian remains focused on his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
He concluded: "I always felt grass in the second half of my career, was really the surface where I played my best tennis - so why not do it again?"
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