Djokovic Wins Longest Wimbledon Quarter-Final
Novak Djokovic produced another unforgettable Wimbledon performance on Tuesday as he defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime in a five-set quarter-final thriller.
The former champion won 7-6, 3-6, 6-3, 6-7, 7-6 after five hours and 15 minutes on Centre Court. The match became the longest men’s quarter-final in Wimbledon history.
Djokovic suffered a calf injury in the first set but continued to fight through pain and pressure. The 39-year-old showed remarkable control in the final tie-break to seal one of the most dramatic wins of his career.
Record 15th Wimbledon Semi-Final for Djokovic
The victory sent Djokovic into a record-extending 15th Wimbledon men’s semi-final. It also marked his 55th Grand Slam semi-final appearance.
Djokovic has now reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the eighth consecutive time. He moved ahead of Roger Federer for the longest streak of men’s singles semi-final appearances at the All England Club.
The Serbian star also became only the second man in the Open era to reach the Wimbledon semi-finals at the age of 39 or older. Ken Rosewall achieved the feat in 1974.
After the match, Djokovic said he survived with his racquet and a lot of heart. He added that such moments are the reason he still plays tennis.
Sinner Awaits in Blockbuster Semi-Final
Djokovic will now face defending champion and world number one Jannik Sinner on Friday for a place in the final.
Sinner reached the semi-finals after beating German veteran Jan-Lennard Struff in straight sets. The Italian was not at his best, but his powerful serve helped him control the match.
The upcoming semi-final is expected to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament. Djokovic will need to recover quickly after his marathon battle, while Sinner enters the clash with more rest and confidence.
In the women’s draw, Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova also reached their first Wimbledon semi-finals. Gauff defeated Jessica Pegula, while Muchova beat Naomi Osaka to continue her strong grass-court run.
