Novak Djokovic has claimed that Radek Stepanek deserves credit for the way he fought before being beaten in four sets in the second round of Wimbledon on Wednesday.
The world number two was on top for large periods of the contest, but was forced to hold off a late challenge from his Czech opponent before securing his progress on Centre Court.
"I was two sets up and had break point chances, and I should have closed it out in the third-set tie-break, but credit to him for fighting," Djokovic told BBC Sport. "He performs really well on the big stage, loves to engage the crowd and is a great entertainer.
"I came to Wimbledon without much match practice and didn't have much time on court in my first match, so I was focused because I was aware of his ability and quality.
"He doesn't give up and read my passing shot well. It was a difficult one but I am glad I managed to hang in there mentally to win."
Djokovic will meet Gilles Simon in the third round.
Callum Mulvihill
