Novak Djokovic claimed the opening set 6-4 against Wu Yibing in their Wimbledon first-round match on Monday.
The Serbian seven-time champion broke early and closed out the 35-minute set with a diving half-volley and a lob in a competitive final game.
High-profile spectators in the Royal Box included David Beckham and his mother Sandra, who remained in the front row while Brazil played in the football World Cup.
During the ninth game, Wu hit a forehand winner that drew praise from Djokovic. "Too good," the top seed remarked.
Wu responded with an ace to hold serve, forcing Djokovic to serve out the set.
Although Wu created two break points in the final game, Djokovic delivered a timely ace and a cross-court backhand to secure the advantage.
The players then traded holds to reach 1-1 in the second set.
