Djokovic hails Fearnley after tough Wimbledon test

British wildcard Jacob Fearnley took a set off seven-time champion Novak Djokovic but fell short of creating a seismic shock in the Wimbledon second round.

Fearnley, a 22-year-old from Scotland, was beaten 6-3 6-4 5-7 7-5 by the Serb second seed in an increasingly-febrile atmosphere on Centre Court.

In May, the world number 277 finished his university studies in the United States.

Six weeks later, he was trying to beat one of the greatest players of all-time on the world’s most iconic tennis court.

Making his main-draw debut at the All England Club, Fearnley showcased his talent and caused serious problems for the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

Fearnley was two points away from taking the match into a deciding set before Djokovic survived to come through.

It was an impressive performance from the British number 13, who deservedly received a standing ovation which Djokovic joined in with.

“He played very good tennis and deserves a great round of applause,” said Djokovic.

“I hadn’t had a chance to see him play until two days ago, there is always an element of surprise and nothing for him to lose.

“He served very well, it was hard to break his serve and he made me work.

“All in all this match potentially deserved to go into a fifth, particularly with the way he played in the fourth. But I’m very glad it didn’t.”