Novak Djokovic is just two victories away from his 24th Grand Slam title. The number 2 in the world defeated the Russian Andrej Rublev, who is five places lower, in the quarterfinals of Wimbledon 4-6 6-1 6-4 6-3.
It took Djokovic 2 hours and 48 minutes to get rid of Rublev. After losing the first set, the Serbian raised his level and half an hour later he had tied the score.
In the third set, Djokovic made the decisive break at 2-2. With a 5-4 lead, he only used his fifth set point after a long game. In the remainder, Djokovic never got into trouble again and after almost 3 hours he used his second game point, on the service of Rublev.
Four-setter
“There were great rallies and Andrej played with a high intensity. You could tell by his loud moans, it was almost terrifying,” said Djokovic afterwards. “He has been a regular in the top 10 for a few years and I want to congratulate him on a great tournament.”
For Djokovic (36), undefeated on the Center Court of Wimbledon for more than ten years, it was the second time during this edition of the grand slam tournament in London that he lost a set. On Monday he gave up the third set against Hubert Hurkacz from Poland. He also won in a four-setter.
Andy Murray
In the semifinals, Djokovic will face the Italian Jannik Sinner, whom he defeated in five sets in the quarterfinals last year. Djokovic was 2-0 in sets behind in that game. “All tennis players want to be in a position where everyone wants to beat them. That’s a privilege. The pressure is great every time I play here, but I enjoy it,” said the title holder. “I know they want to stunt against me, but that’s not going to happen yet.”
On July 7, 2013, Djokovic, who is aiming for his fifth title in a row in London, lost a match on the main course of Wimbledon for the last time. He then had to recognize his superior in Andy Murray in the final.