Novak Djokovic beats Julien Benneteau in 4 sets at Wimbledon

Djokovic beats Benneteau in 4 sets at Wimbledon

WIMBLEDON, England — Novak Djokovic has advanced to the second round at Wimbledon by beating Julien Benneteau 6-7 (8), 7-6 (1), 6-2, 6-4.

Djokovic converted his third match point on Monday when Benneteau pulled a backhand wide. Djokovic looked to the sky and crossed himself, relieved to advance after more than 3½ hours of play.

Benneteau hurt his left knee in the final game when he slid into the back wall chasing a shot. Sprawled on the grass, he iced the knee, and play resumed following a six-minute delay.

Three points later, Djokovic closed out the win. He’s seeded fourth and considered one of the biggest threats to Roger Federer’s bid for a sixth Wimbledon title.