Defending champion Novak Djokovic overcame an early fright to fend off British teenager Jack Draper and launch his quest for a sixth title at Wimbledon.
The first match on Centre Court since Djokovic's nailbiting victory over Roger Federer in the 2019 final - was classic David versus Goliath material.
The clash ended 4-6 6-1 6-2 6-2 in the Serb's favour.
It proved the perfect way to bring Centre Court back to life after the enforced silence due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Only 7,500 fans were permitted on Centre Court in line with the 50 per cent cap on attendance.
Elsewhere, American Frances Tiafoe dumped third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas out of the men's singles 6-4 6-4 6-3 as the Greek became the first big casualty on the opening day.
Tsitsipas, playing his first match since his French Open final defeat by Novak Djokovic on June 13, also went out in the opening round on his last appearance as seventh seed in the grasscourt tournament in 2019.
Tiafoe, ranked 57th in the world, broke serve in the opening game and it set the tone as Tsitsipas struggled against a confident and aggressive opponent in front of 6,000 fans on covered Court One.
Captains will be the only ones allowed to speak to the referee and discuss a decision during matches at the upcoming European Championship in a bid to facilitate clearer communication.
Substitute Jhon Duran scored two late goals as Aston Villa fought back to salvage a 3-3 home draw with Liverpool on Monday and take a significant step towards a place in the Champions League next season.
Arsenal's Leandro Trossard capitalised on dreadful defending to secure a 1-0 win against Manchester United that saw the Gunners climb back to the top of the Premier League, ensuring the title race will be decided on the final day.
UAE Team Emirates rider Tadej Pogacar has retained his overall lead after Dutchman Olav Kooij won stage nine of the Giro d'Italia on Sunday, pipping Jonathan Milan by half a wheel right at the finish line in a breathless sprint at the end of a 214-km ride from Avezzano to Naples.