Novak Djokovic Reaches Wimbledon Semifinals After Longest Match of His Career
June 24, Kathmandu – Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic secured a place in the Wimbledon semifinals by winning the longest match of his career. In a thrilling quarterfinal on Centre Court, he defeated Canada’s third seed Felix Auger-Aliassime 7–6(10), 3–6, 6–3, 6–7(4), 7–6(10–4). The match, lasting five hours and 15 minutes, is regarded as the longest quarterfinal in Wimbledon history. The 39-year-old Djokovic clinched the victory at 10:52 pm, just eight minutes before the 11 pm curfew began. The final three sets were played under the court roof, which was closed for the duration.
With this win, Djokovic advances to the Wimbledon semifinals for the eighth consecutive time. This marks his 55th Grand Slam semifinal overall and his 15th at Wimbledon. At 39 years and 51 days of age, he becomes the second-oldest player in the Open Era to reach the Wimbledon semifinals, previously a record held by Ken Rosewall. During the match, Djokovic also took a medical timeout due to a knee issue.
Experience and mental toughness helped Djokovic overcome the 25-year-old Auger-Aliassime. Although the Canadian player served 29 aces throughout the match, Djokovic tactically targeted his backhand in critical moments to secure the victory. After the match, Djokovic said, “This win was possible thanks to my racket and a big heart. These are the moments I continue to play tennis for. I wish I were in the final so I wouldn’t have to worry about how my body will feel tomorrow. I’m very happy with this win.”
He earned his 107th Wimbledon win in the presence of his children, Stefan and Tara. Even after the fourth set, when his children were told to go to bed, they refused. Laughing, Djokovic remarked, “I’m glad they stayed because this was one of the best matches of my career on Centre Court.” Djokovic will now face reigning champion and world number one Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. Last year, Sinner defeated Djokovic in the Wimbledon semifinals en route to winning the title.
Having won 24 Grand Slam titles, Djokovic is just two Grand Slam victories away from holding the all-time record of 25 major titles. However, he remains focused on the immediate challenge rather than milestones. “I will look at all these stats and records after my career is over. Right now, my focus is on Friday’s match. I am still competing and have to face one of the best players in the world in two days,” he stated.