Having lost the first set 6-4, seven-time champion Djokovic was leading 4-1 in the second when fans burst into applause, leaving both players briefly puzzled.

Yet the pair soon realised the crowd was celebrating England's quarter-final win over Switzerland, before Djokovic mimicked a penalty effort towards Aussie Popyrin.

"I assumed it was a penalty shootout between England and Switzerland," Djokovic explained after his 4-6 6-3 6-4 7-6 (7-3) win.

"It felt like for a set and a half the crowd really wanted to understand what the score was in the football match. Did England win in the end? That's why you guys stayed. Congrats to England.

"I tried to shoot a penalty, I'm left-footed, but Alexei defended it well."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola also enjoyed the Centre Court action as Alexander Zverev sought an opportunity to entice the Premier League winner to Bayern Munich.

Guardiola was joined by Arsenal and England captain Leah Williamson, as well as England cricket stars Jos Buttler and Joe Root in a star-studded line-up in the stands.

Yet Zverev was most interested in pointing out former Bayern boss Guardiola as the No.4 seed urged the Spaniard back to Bavaria.

"For me and for all tennis players it's an honour to play on this beautiful Centre Court and in front of the Royal Box, we had so many sporting legends today," Zverev said.

"For me, Pep Guardiola, when I saw Pep I got so nervous for a few games. Thanks a lot for coming, it's a privilege to play.

"Last thing – Bayern Munich needs a coach. If you're tired of football you can coach me on a tennis court any time."