Jannik Sinner has defeated Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon semi-finals, ending Djokovic’s pursuit of a standalone record 25th Grand Slam title. Sinner will now face Alexander Zverev in the final.
Sinner delivered a powerful and precise performance, denying Djokovic’s attempt to equal Roger Federer’s record of eight men’s singles titles at the All England Club. Djokovic, who is 39, did not manage to secure a break point until the third set, which Sinner saved with an ace. Sinner ultimately won the match with a score of 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
This victory marks Sinner’s progression to the Wimbledon final. He is one win away from potentially becoming the 10th man in the Open era to retain the Wimbledon title. Sinner will enter Sunday’s final as a strong contender, particularly after his decisive performance against Djokovic.
Djokovic reflects on semi-final exit
For Djokovic, reaching a Grand Slam semi-final at his age, especially after a demanding five-hour and 15-minute match against an opponent 14 years his junior, demonstrates his continued high-level play. However, he acknowledged that his performance against Sinner was “good but not good enough.”
Djokovic expressed his high expectations for himself, stating, “I’m blessed and cursed to be used to something of a highest degree in terms of results and achievements.” He noted that while he can still play at a high level and challenge younger players, he always aims for the best results.
Unlike last year’s semi-final encounter with Sinner, Djokovic confirmed he was not carrying an injury this time. However, he mentioned the impact of another year and significant court time on his body, particularly after his five-set victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime in the previous round.
Former world number one Andre Agassi commented on the nature of the sport, saying, “In this sport, as in life, hope is fragile but hard to kill.” Djokovic himself stated he felt “physically all right” but acknowledged Sinner was the “much better player” and the “dominant force.”
Pat Cash, the 1987 Wimbledon champion, suggested that this might have been Djokovic’s best opportunity for a 25th Grand Slam title. He added, “I don’t think realistically he has got another Grand Slam in him, unfortunately. I think this was the one.” Cash also noted that while Djokovic could still be a threat, he might not go “all the way.”
Djokovic maintained a high level during his quarter-final win against Auger-Aliassime, but it appeared to have taken a toll. Against Sinner, he seemed slightly slower, particularly on his forehand, and struggled to return Sinner’s accurate and powerful serves. He created only one break-point opportunity, which Sinner saved with an ace.
Despite the loss, Djokovic hopes to return to Wimbledon “at least once more.” He continues to compete effectively against younger players. He will be 40 by the time of next year’s Wimbledon. The oldest man to win a Grand Slam singles title in the Open era was Ken Rosewall, at 39 years and 234 days.
Sinner’s path to the final
Sinner’s performance against Djokovic showcased his exceptional form. He did not drop a set since his opening match and demonstrated his best tennis of the tournament in the semi-final. His serving was particularly strong, with 16 aces recorded on Friday.
Sinner will face Zverev in the final. While Sinner has a strong head-to-head record against Zverev, having won 10 of their 14 previous meetings, he acknowledges that Zverev is a different player after winning his first major title at the French Open. Sinner expressed his happiness with his performance and his return to the finals, hoping for a good final on Sunday.
The Centre Court crowd showed significant support for Djokovic during the match, chanting his nickname “Nole! Nole!” when he faced break points. Djokovic acknowledged the crowd’s appreciation as he left the court, placing his hand over his heart and waving. He has been a crowd favourite in almost every match at this year’s championships, a shift from previous years where he sometimes received a more hostile reception.
Agassi observed the crowd’s chants for Djokovic, noting, “He’s now getting the respect he deserves.” He added that the achievements of current players are influenced by what Djokovic has shown is possible in the sport. Djokovic stated he feels no pressure to play and does so because he wants to and believes he can still perform as a top-five player.
Sinner’s victory over Djokovic was achieved in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
