But the Serbian six-time champion, seeking to win the title for the fourth straight time, was made to work for his somewhat laborious 6-3 3-6 6-3 6-4 victory over Korean Soonwoo Kwon under the centre court roof on Monday.
The No.1 seed Djokovic was out of sorts at times during his 80th match-win at Wimbledon, as he became the first player, man or woman, to record that extraordinary number of singles victories at all four grand slams.
Yet after being warmly applauded at the scene of his final victory over Matteo Berrettini in last year's event, Djokovic told the returning sell-out crowd in the sport's most famous arena: "This court is truly special for me ... it's an honour and pleasure to come back."
For Djokovic, down to No.3 in the rankings for the first time in four years, it was a tough two hour 27 minute opener, thanks to the enterprise of the Korean world No.81 who battled back from a set down.
He had the Serb on his toes too when he earned a break point to take control of the third until Djokovic began to find his familiar champion's rhythm.
"Credit to Kwon for playing some really high quality tennis, he deserves some applause definitely," said the 20-time grand slam winner.
"I didn't have any lead up tournaments so you're always likely to feel less comfortable at the beginning, especially when you're playing someone as talented as Kwon."
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