Djokovic beats Nieminen to set up third round

Defending champion Novak Djokovic made short work of Finland’s Jarkko Nieminen as the temperature rose on Centre Court at Wimbledon.

The top seed won 6-4 6-2 6-3 in 34C heat to set up a third-round clash with Australia’s 27th seed Bernard Tomic. Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov, last year’s semi-finalist, beat American Steve Johnson 7-6 (10-8) 6-2 7-6 (7-2). Seventh seed Milos Raonic and US Open champion Marin Cilic are among the other men in action on day three.

“On this warm day it’s good to spend a little bit less time,” Djokovic told BBC Sport. “I’m glad with the way I’m playing and I’m getting into form.

As the tournament progresses, hopefully I’ll be able to elevate the level of my performances.” Last year’s semi-finalist Dimitrov reached the third round with a straight-set victory over American Steve Johnson and the 11th seed has not lost a set in the tournament. The 24-year-old Bulgarian beat British number one Andy Murray in last year’s quarter-final before losing to eventual champion Djokovic.

He faces Richard Gasquet, the 21st seed who beat fellow Frenchman Kenny de Schepper 6-0 6-3 6-3, in round three. Dimitrov said: “I loved it out there. I enjoyed it – it was a great day to play tennis. “I knew what to expect from Johnson. We have played each other a couple of times and also practised together, so nothing was new.

“I played Richard Gasquet in an exhibition match a few days ago. He is a great grass-court player. “I know what to expect from him. It won’t be a walk in the park but I like my chances.”