- Djokovic Survives Record Wimbledon Marathon to Set Up Blockbuster Semifinal Against Sinner
Novak Djokovic produced one of the most courageous performances of his illustrious career to outlast Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime in the longest men’s quarterfinal in Wimbledon history, booking a mouthwatering semifinal clash with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion battled through injury and exhaustion to secure a dramatic 7-6 (12/10), 3-6, 6-3, 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (10/4) victory after an epic five hours and 15 minutes on Centre Court on Tuesday.
At 39, Djokovic once again demonstrated why he remains one of tennis’ greatest competitors, overcoming a left calf injury suffered during the opening set to keep alive his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title and a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon men’s singles crown.
The Serbian veteran will now face defending champion Jannik Sinner on Friday in a highly anticipated semifinal, with a place in the Wimbledon final at stake.
While Sinner advanced comfortably with a straight-sets victory over Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff earlier in the day, Djokovic had to summon every ounce of determination to overcome the third-seeded Auger-Aliassime in a contest that will be remembered as one of the greatest Wimbledon battles.
Reflecting on his remarkable victory, Djokovic credited his fighting spirit for carrying him through.
“With a racquet and a lot of heart,” he said when asked how he managed to prevail.
“I managed my nerves and the extreme tension you feel in these kinds of matches. Towards the end, it was really anyone’s game. These are the moments I still play tennis for.”
The Serbian also joked about the late finish after noticing young fans had stayed until the end.
“I was telling the kids to go to sleep, but I’m glad they stayed because it was one of the best matches I’ve ever been part of on this court.”
Djokovic’s latest triumph further extended his remarkable Wimbledon legacy. The victory sent him into a record-extending 15th Wimbledon semifinal and his 55th Grand Slam semifinal overall.
He also reached the Wimbledon last four for an eighth consecutive year, surpassing Roger Federer’s previous record for the longest streak of men’s singles semifinal appearances at the All England Club.
In addition, Djokovic became only the second player in the Open Era to reach the Wimbledon men’s semifinals at the age of 39 or older, joining Australian legend Ken Rosewall, who achieved the feat in 1974.
Despite the historic milestone, Djokovic insisted he remains focused on the task ahead rather than the records.
“It’s just another semifinal for me,” he said. “I’ll look at all the numbers when I finish my career.”
The match itself was filled with drama from the outset. Djokovic appeared to be in serious trouble after injuring his left calf in the ninth game of the opening set, forcing him to take a lengthy medical timeout.
Many feared his Wimbledon campaign could be over, but the Serbian returned to the court to a standing ovation and somehow edged a tense first-set tie-break.
Auger-Aliassime responded by taking the second set before tournament officials decided to close the Centre Court roof despite bright sunshine, a decision that visibly frustrated Djokovic.
The veteran regained control in the third set, becoming only the second player to break the Canadian’s serve during this year’s tournament.
He looked set to wrap up victory after taking an early lead in the fourth set, but Auger-Aliassime mounted an impressive comeback to force a deciding fifth set.
The final set lived up to the occasion, with both players refusing to give an inch in a contest packed with high-quality rallies and nerve-racking moments.
Eventually, Djokovic held his nerve in the decisive tie-break before roaring in celebration after completing one of the grittiest victories of his glittering career.
Attention now turns to Friday’s blockbuster semifinal against Sinner.
Djokovic holds five wins from their 11 previous meetings, including Wimbledon victories in 2022 and 2023. However, the Italian defeated the Serbian in last year’s Wimbledon semifinals before Djokovic gained revenge at the Australian Open earlier this year.
Although delighted to have progressed, Djokovic admitted the physical challenge of recovering before facing the world No. 1 remains his biggest concern.
“I wish it was the final so I don’t need to worry about how my body will feel tomorrow,” he said with a smile. “But I’m happy to be through.”
With history once again within touching distance, Djokovic will hope there is enough left in the tank to overcome Sinner and move one step closer to another Wimbledon title and an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam crown.
