Battling Murray, flawless Djokovic slip into Wimbledon third round

LONDON: Andy Murray rolled back the years to stage a thrilling Wimbledon fightback on Wednesday as defending champion Novak Djokovic played almost flawless tennis to reach the third round for the 15th time.

Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, battled back to defeat German qualifier Oscar Otte 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 under the roof of Centre Court.

The British star, playing in the singles event for the first time since 2017, and ranked a lowly 118 after suffering hip and groin injuries, avoided what would have been his earliest exit from the tournament.

“What an atmosphere to play in at the end,” said 34-year-old Murray after seeing off his 151st-ranked opponent.

“I needed everyone’s help tonight. I did a great job, played some top shots at the end but it…