Djokovic storms into quarterfinals after shaky start
The 24-time Grand Slam champion looked out of sorts in the opening set but battled back with trademark resilience to win 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in a gripping three-hour and 18-minute contest on Centre Court.
With the victory, Djokovic set up a quarterfinal clash with Italian Flavio Cobolli, who earlier edged Marin Cilic 6-4, 6-4, 6-7, 7-6.
The 38-year-old Serbian, who hasn't lifted a Grand Slam trophy since his dominant 2023 season, fell behind 4-1 in the fourth set and faced break point that could have forced a decider. But he rallied in clinical fashion, turning the tide to seal the match and silence any doubts about his fitness or form.
Djokovic was watched from the Royal Box by his former rival Roger Federer, prompting a heartfelt on-court tribute:
"I wish I had the serve and volley and the touch of the gentleman standing right there. It's probably the first time he's watched me and I've won the match."
After a sluggish start filled with unforced errors, 16 in the first set alone, Djokovic settled into rhythm, breaking De Minaur early in the second set and engaging in several high-quality rallies, including a 34-shot exchange he won to reclaim momentum.
The match saw both players trade breaks, with De Minaur's trademark speed and low-slicing shots challenging Djokovic's timing. But the Serbian ultimately raised his level, especially in critical moments, using his baseline control and volleying touch to edge ahead.
De Minaur, who missed last year's Wimbledon clash with Djokovic due to injury, had started strongly with two early breaks. But as the match progressed, Djokovic's precision and experience proved decisive.
With this win, Djokovic continues to assert his presence against the emerging generation, including Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, both aiming to usher in a new era in men's tennis.
He now turns his attention to Cobolli in the quarterfinals, as his pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon title, and 25th Grand Slam overall, gathers steam.
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