Edinburgh's Jacob Fearnley earns Djokovic's respect as star 'very glad' match didn't go to fifth set

Jacob Fearnley earned the respect of Novak Djokovic after his "high level" performance on Thursday.

The Edinburgh lad - who earned a crack at the seven time Wimbledon champion - was fearless as he lost out against the 24 time Grand Slam winner. Both players got a brilliant response from the crowd after the embraced in the middle of the court, reports the Daily Record.

Reflecting on the battle with the 22-year-old from Edinburgh, Djokovic told the BBC post-match: "First and foremost huge congratulations to Jacob for an amazing match today.

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"He put in a great effort and played very good tennis. He deserves a great round of applause. I haven't had the chance to see him play. Actually, just two days ago, I seen him for the first time and obviously there is an element of surprise and nothing to lose.

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"Him playing at Wimbledon was always going to be tough. Most of the British players grow up being exposed to grass courts, quick surfaces and know exactly how to play.

"A very windy day with challenging conditions. He served very well. It was difficult to break his serve. He made me work and I was probably a bit lucky in the fourth not to go a break down. Maybe I could have won the match in three but I think all in all this match potentially deserved to get into the fifth with the way we both played and the way he played particularly in the fourth. But I am very glad it didn't!

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"Sometimes you have rough days where you are not feeling your best and of course it also depends on the opponent across the net. Today I thought Jacob played at a high level and he made me earn this victory. All in all it was a victory at the end of the day, I will take it and hopefully I can play better in the next round."