Novak Djokovic starts Wimbledon 2019 title defence by beating Philipp Kohlschreiber

Top seed Novak Djokovic started his defence of the Wimbledon men’s title by beating Germany’s Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets as the pair opened up the tournament on Centre Court.

Inside the 15,000-seater arena, the 32-year-old Serb was never in serious trouble in a 6-3 7-5 6-3 win.

Djokovic is aiming for a fifth Wimbledon title and a 16th Grand Slam.

The world number one will play American Denis Kudla, who beat Tunisian Malek Jaziri, in the second round.

Tradition dictates the defending men’s champion opens up the play on Centre Court on Monday, with four-time champion Djokovic earning that honour again after beating South Africa’s Kevin Anderson on the same court 12 months ago

Elsewhere, fourth seed Anderson won 6-3 6-4 6-2 against France’s Pierre-Hugues Herbert, who will partner Andy Murray in the men’s doubles later this week.