Novak Djokovic overcame a challenging performance and his self-proclaimed “curse” of playing in front of Roger Federer, battling past Alex de Minaur to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals.
The 38-year-old, chasing a record 25th Grand Slam and eighth Wimbledon title, won 1-6 6-4 6-4 6-4 in over three hours on Centre Court.
Under the watchful eye of eight-time champion Federer, Djokovic initially struggled, dropping the first set and falling 4-1 down in the fourth.
However, he showcased his renowned resilience, fighting back to secure the win.
“This is probably the first time he is watching me and I have won the match!” Djokovic quipped, relieved to “break the curse.” He acknowledged Federer as a “huge champion” he admired.
Despite an uncharacteristically error-strewn start, Djokovic’s mental fortitude shone through. He clawed his way back into the match, eventually reeling off five consecutive games in the final set to seal his victory.
This marks Djokovic’s 16th Wimbledon quarter-final. He will now face Italian 22nd seed Flavio Cobolli, with world number one Jannik Sinner a potential semi-final opponent.
