Roman Safiullin continues to dictate the first set. After finding the net early in the game, he responds with a delightful forehand before producing a brilliant exchange of drop shots.
Roman Safiullin continues to dictate the first set. After finding the net early in the game, he responds with a delightful forehand before producing a brilliant exchange of drop shots.
The Russian then clips a perfectly judged lofted shot that lands just inside the baseline, drawing applause. A double fault brings Djokovic back to 30-30, but Safiullin quickly regains control, wins the next point with authority, and seals the hold with a thumping ace. He now leads 5-2 and is just one game away from taking the opening set.
We're underway on Centre Court, and it's Novak Djokovic who claims the very first point of the match. Roman Safiullin responds with an aggressive forehand winner before the two settle into some entertaining early rallies. A superb exchange sees Djokovic move the Russian from side to side, bringing the game to 30-30.
The pressure then shifts firmly onto Safiullin. He finds the net to hand Djokovic break point, and another unforced error follows, allowing the Serbian great to snatch an immediate break and move 1-0 in front.
Roman Safiullin has yet to crack the Novak Djokovic puzzle. The pair have met three times before, and every single encounter has gone the Serbian's way in straight sets.
That said, today's Round of 16 clash is their first-ever meeting at a Grand Slam, giving Safiullin a fresh opportunity to test himself on one of tennis' biggest stages. If the Russian is to spring an upset, his explosive forehand could be the weapon that asks Djokovic the toughest questions.
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Hello, we're back with another live blog! It's Novak Djokovic vs Roman Safiullin, so stay tuned for all the live updates.