Wimbledon Day 4 Wrap: Djokovic Eyes Wimbledon History as Sinner Breezes into Round Three
Novak Djokovic continued his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title with a dominant performance against British wildcard Dan Evans, while world No. 1 Jannik Sinner effortlessly advanced to the third round at Wimbledon on Thursday.
Djokovic Dominates Evans
Djokovic showcased his championship pedigree on Centre Court, defeating Evans in just one hour and 47 minutes with a commanding score of 6-3, 6-2, 6-0. This victory marks his 99th at Wimbledon, further solidifying his status as one of the tournament’s all-time greats.
“It means I’ve been playing quite a long time!” Djokovic noted after the match. “Wimbledon has a special place in my heart. Any history made here is obviously extra special.”
At 38 years old, Djokovic is tied with Margaret Court for the most Grand Slam titles in history, having last claimed a major at the 2023 US Open. He aims to break that record at Wimbledon, a venue he believes gives him the best chance. Despite losing the last two finals to Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic is determined to reclaim his title.
“I’m aware of the history on the line. I’m thinking about the big things I can do in this tournament,” he said.
Sinner Strolls into Round Three
Jannik Sinner, the top seed, also advanced smoothly, defeating Australia’s Aleksandar Vukic 6-1, 6-1, 6-3. The US and Australian Open champion has dropped only 12 games across his opening two matches, demonstrating his formidable form.
“We saw there have been so many upsets this tournament, so we try to stay focused and raise our level,” Sinner remarked, as he prepares for a third-round clash against Spaniard Pedro Martinez.
Heartbreak for Draper
In a disappointing turn for British fans, Jack Draper was knocked out by former finalist Marin Cilic. The 36-year-old Croatian, making his first Wimbledon appearance since undergoing major knee surgery, won in four sets, 6-4, 6-3, 1-6, 6-4, hitting an impressive 53 winners.
“The emotions I’m feeling are incredible,” Cilic expressed after the match. “It’s been a long journey, but I never lost any doubt. This was a huge challenge, to come back and play at this level against Jack.”
Women’s Draw Updates
In the women’s draw, only Aryna Sabalenka remains among the top five seeds. Defending champion Barbora Krejcikova secured a hard-fought victory over Caroline Dolehide, winning 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 to advance to the next round.
Iga Swiatek, a former world No. 1, also survived a scare, coming back from a set down to defeat Caty McNally 5-7, 6-2, 6-1.
Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, dispatched Maria Sakkari with ease, winning 6-3, 6-1.