Novak Djokovic proved once again why he is still one of tennis’s greatest rivals and he battled Felix Auger-Aliassime in a five-set quarter-final to earn a place in the Wimbledon semis. The seven-time Wimbledon champion came out on top and never quit with his strength and relentless pressure in 7-6, 3-6, 6-3, 6-7, 7-6. The record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title is upon him.
Djokovic’s stamina and mental toughness were tested throughout the marathon match where the two players didn’t back down in a match going for over 4 hours. At times he was a bit uncomfortable but the Serbian star was able to hold his nerve in the final to get past the younger Canadian.
Just one day after Djokovic had an unexpected setback off the court, the victory came only one day after Djokovic had an unexpected setback off the court.
Wimbledon Fines Djokovic
The tournament officials fined Djokovic £5,600 for audible obscenity during a match earlier in the tournament. Wimbledon did not specify what was the reason for the punishment, but it is widely believed to have been related to Djokovic’s fourth-round victory against Roman Safiullin.
Djokovic was officially warned by the chair umpire after he muttered Serbian expletives during a service break in the third set. The 39-year-old was also frustrated by smacking a spare ball into the stands after narrowly avoiding a powerful forehand from his opponent.
The fine did not affect his participation at all but it added another layer of drama to an already eventful tournament for the Serbian legend.
Toughest Test Yet Awaits
Djokovic will receive his reward for the hard-fought victory in a blockbuster semifinal against World No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
The Italian has dominated the recent games between the two players, cementing himself as one of sport’s brightest stars. But Djokovic showed earlier this year that he can still beat the younger generation when he beat Sinner at the Australian Open.
Sinner has been good but not perfect at Wimbledon. He has given opponents many break-point opportunities throughout the tournament but none have yet made use of them. For Djokovic, who has the history and tactical intelligence to bring him into the game, any lapse will be costly.
Sinner is probably the favorite to go through to the quarters with his recent form and age but few would say Djokovic is out of his range, especially with his impressive performance on Centre Court, considering he has such a good record in the tournament.
'These Are the Moments I Still Play For'
Djokovic reflected on what motivates him now at this point of his career.
"These are the moments that I still play tennis for."
He added:
"I’m still in a battle with these young guys who have 15 years less than me. I’m able to beat them on the tightest possible scoreline. In a way it’s such a nice surprise. But at the same time I always have the highest expectations of myself."
These comments show the ruthless drive that has defined Djokovic’s career. He is still challenging the next generation in sport at the biggest stages at 39, and on the bigger stage.
All eyes will now be on Djokovic vs Sinner in the Wimbledon final, as that Serbian legend will be trying to get one step closer to another historic Grand Slam title.
