Major takeaways from day seven at US Open 2019

Novak Djokovic began his US&nbsp;Open title defence in style with a 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 win over Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in the first-round action on Monday.

The top-seeded Serbian, who has claimed four of the last five Grand Slam titles, took some time to settle in to his first career meeting with Carballes Baena but after a tight first set was off to the races.

"Obviously getting out of the block it takes a little bit of time to feel comfortable on the court," Djokovic, who beat Juan Martin del Potro in last year's final, said in his on-court interview.

"But we're moving on. Obviously it's not the first time to be in the second round so I know what I need to do."

Djokovic got an early break to go-ahead 2-0 in the second set and never looked back as the three-times champion used a mix of deft volleys, solid movement and great instincts to remain undefeated in 14 career first-round matches in New York.

Carballes Baena looked up for the task early on as he fought off a trio of breakpoints to hold for 1-1 in a game that lasted nearly 10 minutes.

The Spanish world number 76 kept up the fight and was serving at 4-5 in the opening set but Djokovic sent a backhand volley to an empty court to set up a pair of breakpoints and converted on his first chance.

Djokovic was never tested the rest of the way and did not face a breakpoint in the entire match.

"It's great to be back," Djokovic said. "I’m grateful that at this stage of my life and career I am still competing at a Grand Slam at a high level.

"We sometimes have to remind ourselves of these blessings."

Up next for Djokovic will be either American Sam Querrey or Argentine Juan Ignacio Londero.

Novak Djokovic began his US Open title defence in style with a 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 win over Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in the first-round action on Monday. The top-seeded Serbian, who has claimed four of the last five Grand Slam titles, took some time to settle in to his first career meeting with Carballes Baena but after a tight first set was off to the races.

Novak Djokovic began his US Open title defence in style with a 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 win over Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena in the first-round action on Monday. The top-seeded Serbian, who has claimed four of the last five Grand Slam titles, took some time to settle in to his first career meeting with Carballes Baena but after a tight first set was off to the races. "Obviously getting out of the block it takes a little bit of time to feel comfortable on the court," Djokovic, who beat Juan Martin del Potro in last year's final, said in his on-court interview. "But we're moving on. Obviously it's not the first time to be in the second round so I know what I need to do." Djokovic got an early break to go-ahead 2-0 in the second set and never looked back as the three-times champion used a mix of deft volleys, solid movement and great instincts to remain undefeated in 14 career first-round matches in New York. Carballes Baena looked up for the task early on as he fought off a trio of breakpoints to hold for 1-1 in a game that lasted nearly 10 minutes. The Spanish world number 76 kept up the fight and was serving at 4-5 in the opening set but Djokovic sent a backhand volley to an empty court to set up a pair of breakpoints and converted on his first chance. Djokovic was never tested the rest of the way and did not face a breakpoint in the entire match. "It's great to be back," Djokovic said. "I’m grateful that at this stage of my life and career I am still competing at a Grand Slam at a high level. "We sometimes have to remind ourselves of these blessings." Up next for Djokovic will be either American Sam Querrey or Argentine Juan Ignacio Londero.

Holder Novak Djokovic safely into US Open second round

From Novak Djokovic to Rafael Nadal, here are eight men to watch at US Open

World number one Novak Djokovic wilted under pressure from Daniil Medvedev Saturday, falling 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 to the ninth-seeded Russian in the Cincinnati Masters semi-finals.

Medvedev's upset win sent him into a title showdown with another unexpected finalist, 16th-seeded Belgian David Goffin, who defeated France's Richard Gasquet 6-3, 6-4 to reach his first ATP Masters 1000 final.

A fuming Djokovic, who looked to have control of the contest in the early going, was caught out when Medvedev stepped things up in the second set.

"I don't know how I turned it around, I was so tired after the first set and I thought I might not be able to keep up the intensity," said Medvedev, who has competed in 15 hardcourt matches since July 30.

"But I had a momentum chance in the second set and the crowd gave me energy," added the Russian, who will be playing his second Masters series final in eight days, after falling to Rafael Nadal in Montreal last Sunday.

"Novak had been destroying me on second serve, so I just went for it," Medvedev said. "It's a great feeling to win and beat the number one."

Djokovic, the defending champion who was playing his first tournament since his Wimbledon triumph in July, need some time to cool down before pondering his loss.

"He deserves to be in the mix, certainly, with all his results," Djokovic said. "He's working his way to top 5. "He's definitely one of the best players in the world at this moment."

Djokovic said there was little he could do in the face of Medvedev's go-for-broke style.

"When I had my racquet on the ball I was returning also his serves, but you can't really predict someone or prepare yourself for someone serving that big second serve consistently from 4-3 to the end of the match with making maybe two double faults out of God knows how many serves," he said.

With the US Open starting on August 26, Djokovic said he took "mostly positives" from the week.

"Today I did lose a tennis match, but I didn't do too much wrong," he said. "So I'll take that and I'll move forward to New York and have a good practice week.

"I'm going to go to fight for a title as everyone else does -- and I like my chances."

Medvedev won 12 of the last 14 points in the second set to square the match against Djokovic, then ran up a 3-1 lead in the third on the way to victory on his first match point.

Kuznetsova beats Barty

There was an upset in the women's draw as well, as Russian veteran Svetlana Kuznetsova defeated top-seeded Australian Ashleigh Barty 6-2, 6-4.

Kuznetsova, a two-time Grand Slam champion who has been hindered lately by injury, will be in search of her 19th WTA title -- and her first in more than a year -- when she takes on American Madison Keys in the final. Keys, the 2017 US Open runner-up, defeated compatriot Sofia Kenin 7-5, 6-4.

Kuznetsova&nbsp;denied Barty a chance to reclaim the world number one ranking, which the Australian would have done by reaching the final.

Instead the triumph by 34-year-old Kuznetsova leaves injured Naomi Osaka atop the rankings with the US Open looming.

Barty, who had rallied from a set down in each of her previous two matches, also said she was taking positives from the week to Flushing Meadows.

"This was a week that I battled through," Barty said. "At times I played some good stuff. At times I played some pretty awful stuff.

"I've learned a lot from this week, and there are nothing but positives going into New York," she said.

Keys booked her finals spot as she won an all-American match littered with 12 breaks of serve.

She earned match points with a flick volley winner angled steeply cross-court and amazed herself with the get. "I looked at my box in shock," she admitted. "I'm really feeling great about my tennis.

World number one Novak Djokovic wilted under pressure from Daniil Medvedev Saturday, falling 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 to the ninth-seeded Russian in the Cincinnati Masters semi-finals.

World number one Novak Djokovic wilted under pressure from Daniil Medvedev Saturday, falling 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 to the ninth-seeded Russian in the Cincinnati Masters semi-finals. Medvedev's upset win sent him into a title showdown with another unexpected finalist, 16th-seeded Belgian David Goffin, who defeated France's Richard Gasquet 6-3, 6-4 to reach his first ATP Masters 1000 final. A fuming Djokovic, who looked to have control of the contest in the early going, was caught out when Medvedev stepped things up in the second set. "I don't know how I turned it around, I was so tired after the first set and I thought I might not be able to keep up the intensity," said Medvedev, who has competed in 15 hardcourt matches since July 30. "But I had a momentum chance in the second set and the crowd gave me energy," added the Russian, who will be playing his second Masters series final in eight days, after falling to Rafael Nadal in Montreal last Sunday. "Novak had been destroying me on second serve, so I just went for it," Medvedev said. "It's a great feeling to win and beat the number one." Djokovic, the defending champion who was playing his first tournament since his Wimbledon triumph in July, need some time to cool down before pondering his loss. "He deserves to be in the mix, certainly, with all his results," Djokovic said. "He's working his way to top 5. "He's definitely one of the best players in the world at this moment." Djokovic said there was little he could do in the face of Medvedev's go-for-broke style. "When I had my racquet on the ball I was returning also his serves, but you can't really predict someone or prepare yourself for someone serving that big second serve consistently from 4-3 to the end of the match with making maybe two double faults out of God knows how many serves," he said. With the US Open starting on August 26, Djokovic said he took "mostly positives" from the week. "Today I did lose a tennis match, but I didn't do too much wrong," he said. "So I'll take that and I'll move forward to New York and have a good practice week. "I'm going to go to fight for a title as everyone else does -- and I like my chances." Medvedev won 12 of the last 14 points in the second set to square the match against Djokovic, then ran up a 3-1 lead in the third on the way to victory on his first match point. Kuznetsova beats Barty There was an upset in the women's draw as well, as Russian veteran Svetlana Kuznetsova defeated top-seeded Australian Ashleigh Barty 6-2, 6-4. Kuznetsova, a two-time Grand Slam champion who has been hindered lately by injury, will be in search of her 19th WTA title -- and her first in more than a year -- when she takes on American Madison Keys in the final. Keys, the 2017 US Open runner-up, defeated compatriot Sofia Kenin 7-5, 6-4. Kuznetsova denied Barty a chance to reclaim the world number one ranking, which the Australian would have done by reaching the final. Instead the triumph by 34-year-old Kuznetsova leaves injured Naomi Osaka atop the rankings with the US Open looming. Barty, who had rallied from a set down in each of her previous two matches, also said she was taking positives from the week to Flushing Meadows. "This was a week that I battled through," Barty said. "At times I played some good stuff. At times I played some pretty awful stuff. "I've learned a lot from this week, and there are nothing but positives going into New York," she said. Keys booked her finals spot as she won an all-American match littered with 12 breaks of serve. She earned match points with a flick volley winner angled steeply cross-court and amazed herself with the get. "I looked at my box in shock," she admitted. "I'm really feeling great about my tennis.

Top seeds Novak Djokovic, Ashleigh Barty toppled in Cincinnati semi-finals

Novak Djokovic wore down Lucas Pouille after an even first set, dispatching the Frenchman 7-6(2) 6-1 in a Cincinnati Masters quarter-final in Ohio on Friday.

The match was much closer than when the pair met in the Australian Open semi-finals in January, when Djokovic conceded only four games before going on to win the title.

It took Djokovic nearly an hour to prevail in the first set but he closed out a one-sided tiebreak with a deft backhand passing shot.

The second was one-way traffic as the world number one played with relentless efficiency against an opponent who ran out of answers.

Perhaps the only concern for Djokovic with the U.S. Open looming in less than two weeks was a sore elbow which required brief treatment by his trainer late in the match.

"I managed to finish the match, had a little bit of tightness in my elbow but hopefully everything will be fine for tomorrow," Djokovic said in an on-court interview.

He will have less than 24 hours to recover for a semi-final against Daniil Medvedev, who continued his recent hot form, ousting Russian compatriot Andrey Rublev 6-2 6-3 in barely an hour.

Medvedev, a career-high eighth in the rankings, faced only one break point.

He has made two finals in the past two weeks, losing to Nick Kyrgios in Washington and Rafa Nadal in Montreal.

In other quarter-final action, Frenchman Richard Gasquet continued his comeback from groin surgery by defeating 11th seeded Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut 7-6(2) 3-6 6-2.

Gasquet, who defeated Andy Murray in the opening round, set up a semi-final clash on Saturday with Belgian 16th seed David Goffin.

Goffin advanced when his quarter-final opponent, Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka, pulled out before their match on Friday due to illness.

Gasquet underwent groin surgery in January and returned to competition in May.

"I didn’t play for six months, so it's great to be back here and reaching the semi-finals aged 33," Gasquet told ESPN in an on-court interview.

"Goffin is a tough guy, one of the fastest from the baseline, so I will be prepared to battle and to fight."

Novak Djokovic wore down Lucas Pouille after an even first set, dispatching the Frenchman 7-6(2) 6-1 in a Cincinnati Masters quarter-final in Ohio on Friday. The match was much closer than when the pair met in the Australian Open semi-finals in January, when Djokovic conceded only four games before going on to win the title.

Novak Djokovic wore down Lucas Pouille after an even first set, dispatching the Frenchman 7-6(2) 6-1 in a Cincinnati Masters quarter-final in Ohio on Friday. The match was much closer than when the pair met in the Australian Open semi-finals in January, when Djokovic conceded only four games before going on to win the title. It took Djokovic nearly an hour to prevail in the first set but he closed out a one-sided tiebreak with a deft backhand passing shot. The second was one-way traffic as the world number one played with relentless efficiency against an opponent who ran out of answers. Perhaps the only concern for Djokovic with the U.S. Open looming in less than two weeks was a sore elbow which required brief treatment by his trainer late in the match. "I managed to finish the match, had a little bit of tightness in my elbow but hopefully everything will be fine for tomorrow," Djokovic said in an on-court interview. He will have less than 24 hours to recover for a semi-final against Daniil Medvedev, who continued his recent hot form, ousting Russian compatriot Andrey Rublev 6-2 6-3 in barely an hour. Medvedev, a career-high eighth in the rankings, faced only one break point. He has made two finals in the past two weeks, losing to Nick Kyrgios in Washington and Rafa Nadal in Montreal. In other quarter-final action, Frenchman Richard Gasquet continued his comeback from groin surgery by defeating 11th seeded Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut 7-6(2) 3-6 6-2. Gasquet, who defeated Andy Murray in the opening round, set up a semi-final clash on Saturday with Belgian 16th seed David Goffin. Goffin advanced when his quarter-final opponent, Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka, pulled out before their match on Friday due to illness. Gasquet underwent groin surgery in January and returned to competition in May. "I didn’t play for six months, so it's great to be back here and reaching the semi-finals aged 33," Gasquet told ESPN in an on-court interview. "Goffin is a tough guy, one of the fastest from the baseline, so I will be prepared to battle and to fight."

Novak Djokovic beats Pouille to reach semi-finals

Rafael Nadal's Rogers Cup win in Montreal at the weekend marked a significant step for the Spaniard as he prepares for the US Open but it wasn't enough to topple Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings, released on Monday.

Nadal, who will be vying for a fourth title at Flushing Meadows, was too strong for Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final, seeing off the Russian 6-3 6-0 to claim his 35th Masters title.

Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem stay third and fourth respectively.

Stefanos Tsitsipas, who entered the top five for the first time last week, drops two places and is leapfrogged by Kei Nishikori and Alexander Zverev.&nbsp;

Medvedev's reward for his appearance in Sunday's final was a one-place climb to eight.&nbsp;

ATP rankings as of August 12

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,325 pts

2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945

3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7,460

4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,925

5. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040 (+1)

6. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,005 (+1)

7. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 3,455 (-2)

8. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 3,230 (+1)

9. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,890 (-1)

10. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,555 (+1)

11. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,395 (+2)

12. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 2,230

13. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,195 (+1)

14. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 2,140 (-4)

15. Gaël Monfils (FRA) 2,130 (+5)

16. John Isner (USA) 2,040 (-1)

17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 2,020

18. Marin Cilic (CRO) 1,940 (-2)

19. David Goffin (BEL) 1,815 (-1)

20. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,810 (-1)

...

23. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,670 (-1)

27. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1,475

Rafael Nadal's Rogers Cup win in Montreal at the weekend marked a significant step for the Spaniard as he prepares for the US Open but it wasn't enough to topple Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings, released on Monday.

Rafael Nadal's Rogers Cup win in Montreal at the weekend marked a significant step for the Spaniard as he prepares for the US Open but it wasn't enough to topple Novak Djokovic at the top of the ATP rankings, released on Monday. Nadal, who will be vying for a fourth title at Flushing Meadows, was too strong for Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's final, seeing off the Russian 6-3 6-0 to claim his 35th Masters title. Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem stay third and fourth respectively. Stefanos Tsitsipas, who entered the top five for the first time last week, drops two places and is leapfrogged by Kei Nishikori and Alexander Zverev. Medvedev's reward for his appearance in Sunday's final was a one-place climb to eight. ATP rankings as of August 12 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,325 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945 3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7,460 4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,925 5. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040 (+1) 6. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,005 (+1) 7. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 3,455 (-2) 8. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 3,230 (+1) 9. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,890 (-1) 10. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,555 (+1) 11. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,395 (+2) 12. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 2,230 13. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,195 (+1) 14. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 2,140 (-4) 15. Gaël Monfils (FRA) 2,130 (+5) 16. John Isner (USA) 2,040 (-1) 17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 2,020 18. Marin Cilic (CRO) 1,940 (-2) 19. David Goffin (BEL) 1,815 (-1) 20. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,810 (-1) ... 23. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,670 (-1) 27. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1,475

Rafael Nadal stays at number two as Novak Djokovic rules rankings

Washington Open semi-finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas has for the first time climbed into the top five of the latest ATP rankings released Monday.&nbsp;

The 20-year-old Greek, who has already won tournaments in Marseille and Estoril as well as reaching the final of the Masters 1000 in Madrid, is the youngest player in the top 20.

He has leapfrogged Alexander Zverev who dropped two places to seven.

It may be a brief visit to the top five for Tsitsipas with lots of points on offer at this week's Montreal Masters and Kei Nishikori, just five points behind him in sixth. Tsitsipas reached the final in Monreal last year while Nishikori bowed out in round one.

Novak Djokovic remains at number one, the 263rd week of his career that he has occupied the position. That is still 47 weeks short of record-holder Roger Federer (310) who stays third behind Rafael Nadal.

The biggest climber of the week is the Australian Nick Kygios who held his composure to beat Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's Washington Open final.&nbsp;

The Australian rises 25 places to 27, back to where he was at the start of last October and putting him within touching distance of a return to the top 20.&nbsp;

Medvedev moved up one place to nine with Fabio Fognini dropping out of the top 10.

ATP rankings as of August 5

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,415 pts 
2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945 
3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7,460 
4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,755 
5. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 4,045 (+1) 
6. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040 (+1) 
7. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,005 (-2) 
8. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,890 
9. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 2,745 (+1) 
10. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 2,500 (+1) 
11. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,420 (-2) 
12. Juan Martín Del Potro (ARG) 2,230 
13. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,215 
14. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,195 
15. John Isner (USA) 2,085 
16. Marin Cilic (CRO) 2,030 (+1) 
17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 1,975 (-1) 
18. David Goffin (BEL) 1,815 
19. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,810 (+1) 
20. Gael Monfils (FRA) 1,770 (-1) 
... 
22. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,715 (-1) 
27. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1,475 (+25)

Washington Open semi-finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas has for the first time climbed into the top five of the latest ATP rankings released Monday. The 20-year-old Greek, who has already won tournaments in Marseille and Estoril as well as reaching the final of the Masters 1000 in Madrid, is the youngest player in the top 20.

Washington Open semi-finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas has for the first time climbed into the top five of the latest ATP rankings released Monday. The 20-year-old Greek, who has already won tournaments in Marseille and Estoril as well as reaching the final of the Masters 1000 in Madrid, is the youngest player in the top 20. He has leapfrogged Alexander Zverev who dropped two places to seven. It may be a brief visit to the top five for Tsitsipas with lots of points on offer at this week's Montreal Masters and Kei Nishikori, just five points behind him in sixth. Tsitsipas reached the final in Monreal last year while Nishikori bowed out in round one. Novak Djokovic remains at number one, the 263rd week of his career that he has occupied the position. That is still 47 weeks short of record-holder Roger Federer (310) who stays third behind Rafael Nadal. The biggest climber of the week is the Australian Nick Kygios who held his composure to beat Daniil Medvedev in Sunday's Washington Open final. The Australian rises 25 places to 27, back to where he was at the start of last October and putting him within touching distance of a return to the top 20. Medvedev moved up one place to nine with Fabio Fognini dropping out of the top 10. ATP rankings as of August 5 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 12,415 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 7,945 3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7,460 4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,755 5. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 4,045 (+1) 6. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,040 (+1) 7. Alexander Zverev (GER) 4,005 (-2) 8. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,890 9. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 2,745 (+1) 10. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 2,500 (+1) 11. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 2,420 (-2) 12. Juan Martín Del Potro (ARG) 2,230 13. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,215 14. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,195 15. John Isner (USA) 2,085 16. Marin Cilic (CRO) 2,030 (+1) 17. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 1,975 (-1) 18. David Goffin (BEL) 1,815 19. Milos Raonic (CAN) 1,810 (+1) 20. Gael Monfils (FRA) 1,770 (-1) ... 22. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 1,715 (-1) 27. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1,475 (+25)

Stefanos Tsitsipas enters ATP top five for the first time

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-defeats-roger-federer-to-win-wimbledon-title-235964">Novak Djokovic</a> has withdrawn from next month's Rogers Cup in Montreal in order to get more rest before opening his hard court season, the world number one said on Thursday.

Djokovic, a four-time&nbsp;champion in Canada, said he needs more time to recover after a physically demanding run at Wimbledon, where he beat Swiss Roger Federer in a five-set final to secure his 16th Grand Slam title.

"I'm sorry to announce that I decided to pull out of Rogers Cup," said Djokovic. "With the support of my team, I have decided to give my body longer rest and recovery time before coming back again to play."

With the Serb's withdrawal, Spain's Rafa Nadal will be the top seed at the Aug. 3-11 tournament.

Argentine Juan Martin del Potro, who injured himself at Queen's this year and has since had surgery on his right knee, will also skip the tournament.

"In del Potro's case, we wish him a speedy recovery, he who has experienced his share of injuries in the past few years," said Montreal tournament director Eugene Lapierre. "We look forward to seeing him back on court in the near future."

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next month's Rogers Cup in Montreal in order to get more rest before opening his hard court season, the world number one said on Thursday.

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next month's Rogers Cup in Montreal in order to get more rest before opening his hard court season, the world number one said on Thursday. Djokovic, a four-time champion in Canada, said he needs more time to recover after a physically demanding run at Wimbledon, where he beat Swiss Roger Federer in a five-set final to secure his 16th Grand Slam title. "I'm sorry to announce that I decided to pull out of Rogers Cup," said Djokovic. "With the support of my team, I have decided to give my body longer rest and recovery time before coming back again to play." With the Serb's withdrawal, Spain's Rafa Nadal will be the top seed at the Aug. 3-11 tournament. Argentine Juan Martin del Potro, who injured himself at Queen's this year and has since had surgery on his right knee, will also skip the tournament. "In del Potro's case, we wish him a speedy recovery, he who has experienced his share of injuries in the past few years," said Montreal tournament director Eugene Lapierre. "We look forward to seeing him back on court in the near future."

Novak Djokovic withdraws from Montreal event

It was a thrilling Sunday for sports fans across the world and especially for people in London. The city hosted two grand sporting events and both were thrilling matches, to say the least.

It was a thrilling Sunday for sports fans across the world and especially for people in London. The city hosted two grand sporting events and both were thrilling matches, to say the least. As Novak Djokovic took on Roger Federer at Wimbledon men's final, celebrities from the across the world thronged to watch the match live. Deepika Padukone and her sister Anisha Padukone were among the many high profile celebrities who attended the tennis face-off that eventually saw Djokovic win his 5th Wimbledon title beating Federer in the 5th-set tiebreaker. The Padukone sisters were invited for the final match and two coordinated their outfits in white as they attended the game. View this post on Instagram #nowshowing #sisteract @anishapadukone A post shared by Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) on Jul 14, 2019 at 6:32am PDT × View this post on Instagram Deepika Padukone in Ralph Lauren attends the Wimbledon Tennis Championship Men's Final in London #deepikapadukone #ralphlauren #tennis #wimbledon #wimbledonfinal #tennismatch #wimbledonmenfinal #fashion #sport #hitea #afternoontea #london A post shared by Deepika Padukone Malaysia FC (@teamdeepikamy) on Jul 14, 2019 at 7:51pm PDT × View this post on Instagram Deepika Padukone in Ralph Lauren attends the Wimbledon Tennis Championship Men's Final in London #deepikapadukone #ralphlauren #tennis #wimbledon #wimbledonfinal #tennismatch #wimbledonmenfinal #fashion #sport #hitea #afternoontea #london A post shared by Deepika Padukone Malaysia FC (@teamdeepikamy) on Jul 14, 2019 at 6:43am PDT × Deepika and Anisha were seated in a box that had several prominent celebrities in it. Deepika was seated right next to 'Crazy Rich Asians' star Henry Golding. The row behind her had Devid Beckham's son, Brooklyn Beckham and his girlfriend Hana Cross along with Kendell Jenner seated while a row below hers had Kpop star Choi Sivon in attendance. View this post on Instagram Deepika Padukone, Henry Golding, Choi Siwon in Ralph Lauren attends the Wimbledon Tennis Championship Men's Final in London #deepikapadukone #ralphlauren #tennis #wimbledon #wimbledonfinal #tennismatch #wimbledonmenfinal #fashion #sport #hitea #afternoontea #london #henrygolding #choisiwon #brooklynbeckham A post shared by Deepika Padukone Malaysia FC (@teamdeepikamy) on Jul 14, 2019 at 8:43am PDT × View this post on Instagram Deepika Padukone, Henry Golding, Choi Siwon, Brooklyn Beckham and Hana Cross in Ralph Lauren attends the Wimbledon Tennis Championship Men's Final in London #deepikapadukone #ralphlauren #tennis #wimbledon #wimbledonfinal #tennismatch #wimbledonmenfinal #fashion #sport #hitea #afternoontea #london #henrygolding #choisiwon #brooklynbeckham A post shared by Deepika Padukone Malaysia FC (@teamdeepikamy) on Jul 14, 2019 at 8:44am PDT × View this post on Instagram Deepika Padukone, Henry Golding, Choi Siwon, Brooklyn Beckham and Hana Cross in Ralph Lauren attends the Wimbledon Tennis Championship Men's Final in London #deepikapadukone #ralphlauren #tennis #wimbledon #wimbledonfinal #tennismatch #wimbledonmenfinal #fashion #sport #hitea #afternoontea #london #henrygolding #choisiwon #brooklynbeckham A post shared by Deepika Padukone Malaysia FC (@teamdeepikamy) on Jul 14, 2019 at 8:43am PDT × The finale, in fact, had several Hollywood stars in attendance as well as members of Britain's royal family. Kate Middleton and Prince William were seated in the front row as they cheered for Federer and Djokovic. Actors Tom Hiddleston and Benedict Cumberbatch had a mini 'Avengers' reunion at the finale. Cumberbatch was accompanied by his wife at the game. View this post on Instagram Tom Hiddleston with Benedict Cumberbatch today at Wimbledon 2019! They both are so good looking ! Also Tom’s hair is super curly today❤️🥰🤩 #TomHiddleston #benedictcumberbatch #wimbledon #wimbledon2019 • • • • #loki #lokisarmy #lokiodinson #lokigodofmischief #princeofasgard #lokiofasgard #lokiofjotunheim #marvel #avengers #avengersendgame #twhiddleston A post shared by Loki & The MCU (@lowkey.mcu.loki) on Jul 14, 2019 at 7:23pm PDT × Deepika, in fact, is friends with both the Tennis stars. She had previously doubled up with Federer for a charity match in Mumbai. And a few years back, the foreign press had romantically linked her to Djokovic as the duo were spotted on a dinner date in New York.

Deepika Padukone watches Federer vs Djokovic Wimbledon match with Hollywood royalty

Defending champion Novak Djokovic claimed his fifth Wimbledon title on Sunday beating eight-time champion Roger Federer 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3) in the longest ever final and settled by an historic tie-break.

The 32-year-old Serbian saved two match points as he took his Grand Slam tally to 16, four off Federer's overall record.

Djokovic's victory extends to 11 successive Grand Slams won by the big three, himself, Federer and Rafael Nadal.

At 4 hours and 57 minutes it was the longest final at Wimbledon.

Stan Wawrinka was the last player outside the trio to win a Grand Slam, the 2016 US Open beating Djokovic.

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Unbelievable. Unshakeable. Unstoppable.<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> wins his fifth <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> title in an instant classic, defeating Roger Federer 7-6(5), 1-6, 7-6(4), 4-6, 13-12(3) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JoinTheStory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JoinTheStory</a> <a href="https://t.co/S2Mx1yyJ3M">pic.twitter.com/S2Mx1yyJ3M</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1150467044216922114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The last player to win a Grand Slam aged under 30 was Andy Murray, who won the 2016 Wimbledon title aged 29.&nbsp;

Defending champion Novak Djokovic claimed his fifth Wimbledon title on Sunday beating eight-time champion Roger Federer 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3) in the longest ever final and settled by an historic tie-break.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic claimed his fifth Wimbledon title on Sunday beating eight-time champion Roger Federer 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3) in the longest ever final and settled by an historic tie-break. The 32-year-old Serbian saved two match points as he took his Grand Slam tally to 16, four off Federer's overall record. Djokovic's victory extends to 11 successive Grand Slams won by the big three, himself, Federer and Rafael Nadal. At 4 hours and 57 minutes it was the longest final at Wimbledon. Stan Wawrinka was the last player outside the trio to win a Grand Slam, the 2016 US Open beating Djokovic. Unbelievable. Unshakeable. Unstoppable.@DjokerNole wins his fifth #Wimbledon title in an instant classic, defeating Roger Federer 7-6(5), 1-6, 7-6(4), 4-6, 13-12(3) #JoinTheStory pic.twitter.com/S2Mx1yyJ3M — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 14, 2019 × The last player to win a Grand Slam aged under 30 was Andy Murray, who won the 2016 Wimbledon title aged 29.

Novak Djokovic defeats Roger Federer to win Wimbledon title

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-defeats-roger-federer-to-win-wimbledon-title-235964">Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer</a> on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured.

He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

"When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the Serb.

The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever played at the tournament.

Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3).

At 4 hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final ever played and settled by a final set tiebreak for the first time.

Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down.

"It was probably the most demanding, mentally, match I was ever part of," said the 32-year-old Djokovic.

"I had the most physically demanding match against (Rafael) Nadal in the final of Australia that went almost six hours (in 2012).

"But mentally this was a different level, because of everything."&nbsp;

'Thrilled, overjoyed'

"I'm thrilled and overjoyed with emotions to be sitting here in front of you as a winner but I was one shot away from losing the match. It could have gone easily his way."

Djokovic saved the match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament.

It was a display of stunning mental fortitude by Djokovic.

However, he has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens.

"I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today.

"But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, if I can say so, I found my best game."

Djokovic also insisted he had pictured how the final would play out, appreciating that Federer was, as always, the sentimental favourite.

"I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'. It sounds silly, but it is like that. I try to convince myself that it's like that," he said.

Djokovic is now just two Slams behind Rafael Nadal and four back from Federer on the all-time list.

He is also younger than both of his great rivals.

But on Sunday, he was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set.

Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54.

"I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability in those moments," admitted the champion.

"I guess that all of these things combined in a courageous effort.

"You have to keep reminding yourself that you're there for a reason and that you are better than the other guy."

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured. He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured. He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind. "When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the Serb. The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever played at the tournament. Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3). At 4 hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final ever played and settled by a final set tiebreak for the first time. Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down. "It was probably the most demanding, mentally, match I was ever part of," said the 32-year-old Djokovic. "I had the most physically demanding match against (Rafael) Nadal in the final of Australia that went almost six hours (in 2012). "But mentally this was a different level, because of everything." 'Thrilled, overjoyed' "I'm thrilled and overjoyed with emotions to be sitting here in front of you as a winner but I was one shot away from losing the match. It could have gone easily his way." Djokovic saved the match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament. It was a display of stunning mental fortitude by Djokovic. However, he has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens. "I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today. "But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, if I can say so, I found my best game." Djokovic also insisted he had pictured how the final would play out, appreciating that Federer was, as always, the sentimental favourite. "I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'. It sounds silly, but it is like that. I try to convince myself that it's like that," he said. Djokovic is now just two Slams behind Rafael Nadal and four back from Federer on the all-time list. He is also younger than both of his great rivals. But on Sunday, he was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set. Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54. "I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability in those moments," admitted the champion. "I guess that all of these things combined in a courageous effort. "You have to keep reminding yourself that you're there for a reason and that you are better than the other guy."

When they chant Roger, I hear Novak: Novak Djokovic admits 'toughest' Wimbledon win

The final match of&nbsp;ICC Men's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-new-zealand-to-win-the-cricket-world-cup-2019-title-235973">Cricket World Cup</a>&nbsp;between England and New Zealand at Lord's and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-vows-to-win-fans-love-with-roger-federer-record-in-view-236099">Wimbledon</a>&nbsp;men's singles final between Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic&nbsp;went down to the wire.

England won the title&nbsp;after a dramatic Super Over.&nbsp;England was announced as the winner as they had hit more boundaries in the match.

While in Wimbledon final defending champion, Djokovic saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major&nbsp;in a five-set thriller.&nbsp;

At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak.

Spectators and&nbsp;fans across were glued to the edge of their seats, waiting to find out the results of the nail-biting matches.

However, amid all the tesnsions, ICC and Wimbledon made complete use of the opportunity to find out how things are going for one another.

"Hello @ICC - how are you coping your end? #Wimbledon #CWC19Final," read a tweet posted on Wimbledon's official handle.

ICC's official handle was quick to respond to the enquiry, and wrote, "Things are a bit hectic here right now, we`ll get back to you #CWC19 | #Wimbledon | #CWC1FINAL".

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Things are a bit hectic here right now, we'll get back to you 😅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC1FINAL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC1FINAL</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1150469283673235457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Fans also reacted to to the banter and expressed&nbsp;their excitement. Here are some fan reations.&nbsp;

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I can’t decide what to watch..
— Raj Kumar Jha (@Thisisraaj) <a href="https://twitter.com/Thisisraaj/status/1150463880293863426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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If you're asking the ICC, they'd probably tell you that you stretched that final too long. Just decide the champion on some silly statistic such as number of aces served, why bother having a clear winner?
— Max (@Maxx_Force) <a href="https://twitter.com/Maxx_Force/status/1150487374956122112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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How did you get your Duke and Duchess to watch tennis between a Swiss and a Serb and not England's best chance to win a world cup? Just how?
— Chandler Sing (@chandler_sing) <a href="https://twitter.com/chandler_sing/status/1150473625880817665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> is still clueless, best world cup final ever<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvNZ</a>
— SleepyOwl (@Nav_tweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nav_tweets/status/1150466079354867712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The sporting action did not end with these two events, as Lewis Hamilton won his sixth British Grand Prix on Sunday.&nbsp;

The final match of ICC Men's Cricket World Cup between England and New Zealand at Lord's and the Wimbledon men's singles final between Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic went down to the wire.

The final match of ICC Men's Cricket World Cup between England and New Zealand at Lord's and the Wimbledon men's singles final between Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic went down to the wire. England won the title after a dramatic Super Over. England was announced as the winner as they had hit more boundaries in the match. While in Wimbledon final defending champion, Djokovic saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major in a five-set thriller. At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak. Spectators and fans across were glued to the edge of their seats, waiting to find out the results of the nail-biting matches. However, amid all the tesnsions, ICC and Wimbledon made complete use of the opportunity to find out how things are going for one another. "Hello @ICC - how are you coping your end? #Wimbledon #CWC19Final," read a tweet posted on Wimbledon's official handle. ICC's official handle was quick to respond to the enquiry, and wrote, "Things are a bit hectic here right now, we`ll get back to you #CWC19 | #Wimbledon | #CWC1FINAL". Things are a bit hectic here right now, we'll get back to you 😅#CWC19 | #Wimbledon | #CWC1FINAL — ICC (@ICC) July 14, 2019 × Fans also reacted to to the banter and expressed their excitement. Here are some fan reations. I can’t decide what to watch.. — Raj Kumar Jha (@Thisisraaj) July 14, 2019 × If you're asking the ICC, they'd probably tell you that you stretched that final too long. Just decide the champion on some silly statistic such as number of aces served, why bother having a clear winner? — Max (@Maxx_Force) July 14, 2019 × How did you get your Duke and Duchess to watch tennis between a Swiss and a Serb and not England's best chance to win a world cup? Just how? — Chandler Sing (@chandler_sing) July 14, 2019 × @ICC is still clueless, best world cup final ever#ENGvNZ — SleepyOwl (@Nav_tweets) July 14, 2019 × The sporting action did not end with these two events, as Lewis Hamilton won his sixth British Grand Prix on Sunday.

'How are you coping your end': ICC-Wimbledon Twitter banter is unmissable

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time.

The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major on Sunday, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever contested at the tournament.

Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3).

At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak.

Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down, saving two in the 16th game of the deciding set.

His major title tally is now just two behind Rafael Nadal and four off the all-time men's Grand Slam record of 20 held by Federer.

He has time on his side, being a year younger than Nadal and more than five years younger than the legendary Swiss.

After Sunday's epic triumph, Djokovic revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

'They chant Roger, I hear&nbsp;Novak'

"I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the 32-year-old Djokovic.

"It sounds silly, but it is like that."

Djokovic has spent the best part of his career in pursuit of Nadal and Federer and attempting to seduce fans sceptical of his character.

For many he is viewed as too intense, too insincere, too calculating and prone to fads.

Federer and Nadal, in comparison, are treated almost reverentially.

"It's hard to not be aware of the crowd. You have that kind of electric atmosphere, that kind of noise," said Djokovic.

"Of course, if you have the majority of the crowd on your side, it helps. When you don't, then you have to find it within, I guess."

Djokovic insists he won't get distracted by the pursuit of Federer's record haul.

"Whether I'm going to be able to do it or not, I don't know.&nbsp;

"I'm not really looking at age as a restriction of any kind for me at least. What I said on the court, I really meant it: Roger really inspires me with his effort at his age.&nbsp;

"It just depends how long I'm going to play, whether I'm going to have a chance to make historic No. 1 or Slams."

When asked if he sees himself still playing at 37, Djokovic said the motivation to be treated with the same respect is strong.

Eventually, hearing screams of "Let's go,&nbsp;Novak, let's go" will be more than welcome.

"Hopefully in five years' time I can be hearing the same chants."

Most consistent of 'Big Three'

Djokovic is by far the most consistent of the 'Big Three' at the Slams.

Since the start of 2015, he has won nine of the 19 majors played with Nadal winning four and Federer three.

The other three have been split between Stan Wawrinka (two) and Andy Murray (one).

On Sunday, Djokovic saved match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament.

It was another display of stunning mental fortitude.

He has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens.

"I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today.

"But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, I found my best game."

He was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set.

Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54.

"I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability," admitted the champion.

Novak Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time.

Novak Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time. The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major on Sunday, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever contested at the tournament. Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3). At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak. Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down, saving two in the 16th game of the deciding set. His major title tally is now just two behind Rafael Nadal and four off the all-time men's Grand Slam record of 20 held by Federer. He has time on his side, being a year younger than Nadal and more than five years younger than the legendary Swiss. After Sunday's epic triumph, Djokovic revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind. 'They chant Roger, I hear Novak' "I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the 32-year-old Djokovic. "It sounds silly, but it is like that." Djokovic has spent the best part of his career in pursuit of Nadal and Federer and attempting to seduce fans sceptical of his character. For many he is viewed as too intense, too insincere, too calculating and prone to fads. Federer and Nadal, in comparison, are treated almost reverentially. "It's hard to not be aware of the crowd. You have that kind of electric atmosphere, that kind of noise," said Djokovic. "Of course, if you have the majority of the crowd on your side, it helps. When you don't, then you have to find it within, I guess." Djokovic insists he won't get distracted by the pursuit of Federer's record haul. "Whether I'm going to be able to do it or not, I don't know. "I'm not really looking at age as a restriction of any kind for me at least. What I said on the court, I really meant it: Roger really inspires me with his effort at his age. "It just depends how long I'm going to play, whether I'm going to have a chance to make historic No. 1 or Slams." When asked if he sees himself still playing at 37, Djokovic said the motivation to be treated with the same respect is strong. Eventually, hearing screams of "Let's go, Novak, let's go" will be more than welcome. "Hopefully in five years' time I can be hearing the same chants." Most consistent of 'Big Three' Djokovic is by far the most consistent of the 'Big Three' at the Slams. Since the start of 2015, he has won nine of the 19 majors played with Nadal winning four and Federer three. The other three have been split between Stan Wawrinka (two) and Andy Murray (one). On Sunday, Djokovic saved match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament. It was another display of stunning mental fortitude. He has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens. "I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today. "But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, I found my best game." He was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set. Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54. "I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability," admitted the champion.

Novak Djokovic vows to win fans' love with Roger Federer record in view

Top seed and defending champion Novak Djokovic held off a spirited challenge from Spanish outsider Roberto Bautista Agut on Friday to triumph in four sets and advance to a mouthwatering Wimbledon final against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-downs-rafael-nadal-to-set-up-novak-djokovic-wimbledon-title-duel-235413">Roger Federer</a>.

Remarkably the Serb's 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 success was the 12th victory in his last 13 Grand Slam semi-finals and he is now one win away from his fifth title at Wimbledon and 16th Grand Slam singles crown as he resumes his great rivalry with the Swiss.

Friday's match turned on an amazing 45-shot rally in the seventh game of the third set, which Djokovic won to hold serve and stay a break-up&nbsp;and from then on he took total control as the Spaniard, who had looked calm and confident in his first Grand Slam semi-final, was eventually brushed aside.

"I had to dig deep. It's the semi-finals and Roberto was not overwhelmed - he's a very under-rated player," Djokovic, 32, said.

"He played really well. He was managing his nerves in the first set but later on he established himself and started to play better. I got a bit tight. It was a close opening four or five games of the third set - that's where the match could have gone a different way," he added.

Bautista Agut flashed a brilliant return past Djokovic from the first serve of the match but he barely threatened for the rest of the set as his high-risk approach produced too many errors and a provided a straightforward set win for the favourite.

The second was a different story as Bautista Agut dialled back a little and found that he was able to out-duel the master. Djokovic was making uncharacteristic errors on seemingly simple shots and was frequently left staring skywards, questioning himself and taking issue with the crowd.

Bautista Agut snatched a break in the third game and served superbly to back it up, dropping only four points in five successful service games to level the match.

REAL MATCH

The Centre Court crowd realised they had a real match on their hands and they were treated to a superb third set. It, and probably the match, hinged on the seventh game as Djokovic, a break to the good, served at 30-40.

The players then smashed out their 45-shot rally, much of it a mesmerizing exchange of identical crosscourt backhands that had the crowd gasping before Djokovic blinked first to switch the angle of attack and take the point with a devastating winner.

It was the longest rally officially seen at Wimbledon since records began in 2005 and Djokovic duly served out and stayed on top to take the set.

The champion then took command in the fourth set, cutting out the loose groundstrokes and picking up points with adventurous serve-and-volley attacks and after breaking for a 2-1 lead he never looked back.

"Obviously winning that game was crucial for me," Djokovic said of the marathon rally game. "It gave me more confidence and relief so I could swing more freely in the next games."

Bautista Agut had no answers but can be pleased with his efforts in what is turning out to be the best year of his career, having never previously reached even a quarter-final at a Grand Slam.

The 31-year-old can now join his friends on a belated stag break. They arrived in London to watch Friday's game after his planned Ibiza trip was cancelled following his unexpected progress to the last four.

Djokovic, however, has got more business to attend to as he prepares to face 37-year-old eight-times Wimbledon champion and number two seed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-wins-100th-wimbledon-match-sets-up-clash-with-rafael-nadal-in-semi-final-234850">Federer </a>in Sunday's showpiece.

"Regardless of the history and many finals I've played, playing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-to-face-simona-halep-in-wimbledon-final-235136">final at Wimbledon</a> is something different so I'll definitely enjoy that experience," he said.

Top seed and defending champion Novak Djokovic held off a spirited challenge from Spanish outsider Roberto Bautista Agut on Friday to triumph in four sets and advance to a mouthwatering Wimbledon final against Roger Federer.

Top seed and defending champion Novak Djokovic held off a spirited challenge from Spanish outsider Roberto Bautista Agut on Friday to triumph in four sets and advance to a mouthwatering Wimbledon final against Roger Federer. Remarkably the Serb's 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 success was the 12th victory in his last 13 Grand Slam semi-finals and he is now one win away from his fifth title at Wimbledon and 16th Grand Slam singles crown as he resumes his great rivalry with the Swiss. Friday's match turned on an amazing 45-shot rally in the seventh game of the third set, which Djokovic won to hold serve and stay a break-up and from then on he took total control as the Spaniard, who had looked calm and confident in his first Grand Slam semi-final, was eventually brushed aside. "I had to dig deep. It's the semi-finals and Roberto was not overwhelmed - he's a very under-rated player," Djokovic, 32, said. "He played really well. He was managing his nerves in the first set but later on he established himself and started to play better. I got a bit tight. It was a close opening four or five games of the third set - that's where the match could have gone a different way," he added. Bautista Agut flashed a brilliant return past Djokovic from the first serve of the match but he barely threatened for the rest of the set as his high-risk approach produced too many errors and a provided a straightforward set win for the favourite. The second was a different story as Bautista Agut dialled back a little and found that he was able to out-duel the master. Djokovic was making uncharacteristic errors on seemingly simple shots and was frequently left staring skywards, questioning himself and taking issue with the crowd. Bautista Agut snatched a break in the third game and served superbly to back it up, dropping only four points in five successful service games to level the match. REAL MATCH The Centre Court crowd realised they had a real match on their hands and they were treated to a superb third set. It, and probably the match, hinged on the seventh game as Djokovic, a break to the good, served at 30-40. The players then smashed out their 45-shot rally, much of it a mesmerizing exchange of identical crosscourt backhands that had the crowd gasping before Djokovic blinked first to switch the angle of attack and take the point with a devastating winner. It was the longest rally officially seen at Wimbledon since records began in 2005 and Djokovic duly served out and stayed on top to take the set. The champion then took command in the fourth set, cutting out the loose groundstrokes and picking up points with adventurous serve-and-volley attacks and after breaking for a 2-1 lead he never looked back. "Obviously winning that game was crucial for me," Djokovic said of the marathon rally game. "It gave me more confidence and relief so I could swing more freely in the next games." Bautista Agut had no answers but can be pleased with his efforts in what is turning out to be the best year of his career, having never previously reached even a quarter-final at a Grand Slam. The 31-year-old can now join his friends on a belated stag break. They arrived in London to watch Friday's game after his planned Ibiza trip was cancelled following his unexpected progress to the last four. Djokovic, however, has got more business to attend to as he prepares to face 37-year-old eight-times Wimbledon champion and number two seed Federer in Sunday's showpiece. "Regardless of the history and many finals I've played, playing a final at Wimbledon is something different so I'll definitely enjoy that experience," he said.

Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic battles past Bautista Agut into final

Rafael Nadal rued missing out on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-downs-rafael-nadal-to-set-up-novak-djokovic-wimbledon-title-duel-235413">Wimbledon final</a> after losing to great rival Roger Federer and admitted his chances of adding a third title on the grass of the All England Club are receding.

The 33-year-old Spaniard, who remains two off Federer's Grand Slam record title haul of 20, has two Wimbledon crowns to his name.

But he said his game on Friday was never at the level required to repeat his epic win in his first championship victory over Federer 11 years ago.

Nadal, who won his 12th French Open trophy in June, ended up on the wrong end of a 7-6 (7/3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat.

It will be Federer who bids for a ninth <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-to-face-simona-halep-in-wimbledon-final-235136">Wimbledon </a>title against the four-time champion Novak Djokovic, the third member of the great triumvirate that still dominate the sport.&nbsp;

"I am sad for the loss because for me it was another opportunity," he said.

"But at the same time I created another opportunity to be in another final of a Grand Slam.''

"Just accept that was not my day. I played a great event. I take this in a positive way.''

"At the same time, today is sad because for me I know chances are not forever.''

"Last year I had chances here (he lost in five sets to Djokovic in the semi-final), I had another one, and I was not able to convert to win it one more time here," said Nadal.

'We are not done'&nbsp; 
 
Nadal, who suffered his first loss to Federer in a Grand Slam semi-final after winning on the previous four occasions, said it was a wonderful experience to be part of the great rivalry with fellow 30-somethings Federer and Djokovic.

Indeed - Andy Murray aside on two occasions - no other player apart from them has lifted the Wimbledon trophy since Australian Lleyton Hewitt in 2002.

"We spoke about that one thousand times," said Nadal.

"The same time is great to be part of this rivalry, be in the middle of these three players that achieved that much in this sport in the same era," Nadal said.

If the increasingly harassed 'NextGen' group of players - who speak of the unbearable pressure they feel in trying to break up the trio's dominance -&nbsp;were hoping for a light at the end of the tunnel Nadal offered none.

"It is something that is going to be difficult to see again," he said.

"We are not done, so... Things continue. Just another episode this afternoon.''

"Of course, as I said the other day, we know that every time there are less chances to play against each other in these high-quality matches.''

"Was another chance this afternoon," Nadal said.

Nadal said defeat was tough but graciously congratulated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-wins-100th-wimbledon-match-sets-up-clash-with-rafael-nadal-in-semi-final-234850">Federer </a>on being the better player on the day.

Nadal said 37-year-old Federer's qualities remain undimmed and constant.

"The same like all my career, no?" he said. "He is always able to do the most difficult things easy.''

"He's able to move inside the court quicker than anyone.''

"He puts pressure on the opponent all the time because he has the ability to take the ball earlier than anybody else.''

"That's probably the most difficult thing to make that happen, and he is able to do it so well," added Nadal.

Rafael Nadal rued missing out on the Wimbledon final after losing to great rival Roger Federer and admitted his chances of adding a third title on the grass of the All England Club are receding.

Rafael Nadal rued missing out on the Wimbledon final after losing to great rival Roger Federer and admitted his chances of adding a third title on the grass of the All England Club are receding. The 33-year-old Spaniard, who remains two off Federer's Grand Slam record title haul of 20, has two Wimbledon crowns to his name. But he said his game on Friday was never at the level required to repeat his epic win in his first championship victory over Federer 11 years ago. Nadal, who won his 12th French Open trophy in June, ended up on the wrong end of a 7-6 (7/3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat. It will be Federer who bids for a ninth Wimbledon title against the four-time champion Novak Djokovic, the third member of the great triumvirate that still dominate the sport. "I am sad for the loss because for me it was another opportunity," he said. "But at the same time I created another opportunity to be in another final of a Grand Slam.'' "Just accept that was not my day. I played a great event. I take this in a positive way.'' "At the same time, today is sad because for me I know chances are not forever.'' "Last year I had chances here (he lost in five sets to Djokovic in the semi-final), I had another one, and I was not able to convert to win it one more time here," said Nadal. 'We are not done' Nadal, who suffered his first loss to Federer in a Grand Slam semi-final after winning on the previous four occasions, said it was a wonderful experience to be part of the great rivalry with fellow 30-somethings Federer and Djokovic. Indeed - Andy Murray aside on two occasions - no other player apart from them has lifted the Wimbledon trophy since Australian Lleyton Hewitt in 2002. "We spoke about that one thousand times," said Nadal. "The same time is great to be part of this rivalry, be in the middle of these three players that achieved that much in this sport in the same era," Nadal said. If the increasingly harassed 'NextGen' group of players - who speak of the unbearable pressure they feel in trying to break up the trio's dominance - were hoping for a light at the end of the tunnel Nadal offered none. "It is something that is going to be difficult to see again," he said. "We are not done, so... Things continue. Just another episode this afternoon.'' "Of course, as I said the other day, we know that every time there are less chances to play against each other in these high-quality matches.'' "Was another chance this afternoon," Nadal said. Nadal said defeat was tough but graciously congratulated Federer on being the better player on the day. Nadal said 37-year-old Federer's qualities remain undimmed and constant. "The same like all my career, no?" he said. "He is always able to do the most difficult things easy.'' "He's able to move inside the court quicker than anyone.'' "He puts pressure on the opponent all the time because he has the ability to take the ball earlier than anybody else.'' "That's probably the most difficult thing to make that happen, and he is able to do it so well," added Nadal.

'We are not done,' says Rafael Nadal after loss to Roger Federer at Wimbledon

Roger Federer reached his 12th Wimbledon final on Friday, defeating old rival Rafael Nadal "in one of his favourite ever matches", 11 years after he lost their epic 2008 title showdown at the All England Club, a match widely regarded as the greatest ever played.

The 37-year-old eight-time champion won 7-6 (7/3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the pair's 40th career meeting to move into his 31st Grand Slam final where he will face defending champion Novak Djokovic.

Top seed and four-time winner Djokovic reached his sixth Wimbledon final, and 25th at the majors, with a nervy 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 triumph over Spain's 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut.

"Obviously extremely high," said Federer when asked to rate his latest clash with Nadal.

"It's always very, very cool to play against Rafa here.

"It's definitely going to go down as one of my favourite matches to look back at because it's Rafa, it's at Wimbledon."

Federer is the third oldest to play in a Grand Slam final after 39-year-old Ken Rosewall featured in the 1974 Wimbledon and US Open finals.

However, he will have his work cut out on Sunday if he is to secure a 21st major title as he trails 15-time Slam winner Djokovic 25-22 in career meetings.

"Novak is the defending champion and he has shown that this week," added Federer.

"He has been really solid. I will try and push him to the brink but it will be difficult as it's not for nothing that he is number one.

'Sad for the loss'

"But I am very, very excited to say the least."

Friday's semi-final was never likely to match the knife-edge theatrics of 2008 final although Federer needed five match points to secure victory.

Federer will not mind with his win coming just a month after Nadal handed him his worst loss at a Slam in 11 years in the Roland Garros semi-finals.

"I am sad for the loss because for me it was another opportunity," said Nadal, who was also beaten in the semi-finals last year by Djokovic.

"But at the same time, I created another opportunity to be in another final of a Grand Slam.

"Just accept that was not my day. I played a great event. I take this in a positive way.

However, he added wistfully: "At the same time, today is sad because for me I know chances are not forever."

In a tight 51-minute opener, Nadal managed to save the only break point in the eighth game before surrendering the advantage of an early mini-break in the tie-breaker which Federer claimed thanks to five points in a row.

The Spaniard finally carved out the first break of the semi-final in the fourth game of the second set, backing it up with a hold for 4-1.

Nadal then broke again for 5-1 as Federer suffered a sudden and severe power outage with the two-time champion comfortable levelling the contest.

Federer, the oldest semi-finalist in a Grand Slam semi-final since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open, broke Nadal for the first time in the fourth game of the third set.

He then fought off three break points for a key 4-1 lead, coming out on top in a 23-shot rally and then a 25-stroke exchange.

There was no respite for Nadal, an 18-time Slam winner, who slipped a break down at 2-1 in the fourth.

Nadal saved two match points in the ninth game and two more in the 10th but a loose return sealed his fate.

Federer finished with 14 aces and 51 winners.

Djokovic in the sixth final

Djokovic, meanwhile, will be looking to add another Wimbledon title to the Australian and US Open crowns he already holds.

"This has been a remarkable tournament for me and to be in another final is a dream come true," said the top seed.

"I had to dig deep, Roberto was playing his first semi-final at a Grand Slam and he was not really overwhelmed.

"It was a really close opening four to five games of the third set that could have gone either way — thankfully it went mine."

Federer won his first Wimbledon duel against Djokovic in the 2012 semi-finals but the Serb triumphed in the 2014 and 2015 championship matches.

Overall, Djokovic also holds a 9-6 edge in the Slams.

However, Federer said he won't be over-awed by the challenge as he chases a 21st major and Djokovic targets a 16th.

"Age kicks in. I know it's not over yet. There's no point to start partying tonight or get too emotional, too happy about it, even though I am extremely happy," said Federer.

Roger Federer reached his 12th Wimbledon final on Friday, defeating old rival Rafael Nadal "in one of his favourite ever matches", 11 years after he lost their epic 2008 title showdown at the All England Club, a match widely regarded as the greatest ever played.

Roger Federer reached his 12th Wimbledon final on Friday, defeating old rival Rafael Nadal "in one of his favourite ever matches", 11 years after he lost their epic 2008 title showdown at the All England Club, a match widely regarded as the greatest ever played. The 37-year-old eight-time champion won 7-6 (7/3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the pair's 40th career meeting to move into his 31st Grand Slam final where he will face defending champion Novak Djokovic. Top seed and four-time winner Djokovic reached his sixth Wimbledon final, and 25th at the majors, with a nervy 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 triumph over Spain's 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut. "Obviously extremely high," said Federer when asked to rate his latest clash with Nadal. "It's always very, very cool to play against Rafa here. "It's definitely going to go down as one of my favourite matches to look back at because it's Rafa, it's at Wimbledon." Federer is the third oldest to play in a Grand Slam final after 39-year-old Ken Rosewall featured in the 1974 Wimbledon and US Open finals. However, he will have his work cut out on Sunday if he is to secure a 21st major title as he trails 15-time Slam winner Djokovic 25-22 in career meetings. "Novak is the defending champion and he has shown that this week," added Federer. "He has been really solid. I will try and push him to the brink but it will be difficult as it's not for nothing that he is number one. 'Sad for the loss' "But I am very, very excited to say the least." Friday's semi-final was never likely to match the knife-edge theatrics of 2008 final although Federer needed five match points to secure victory. Federer will not mind with his win coming just a month after Nadal handed him his worst loss at a Slam in 11 years in the Roland Garros semi-finals. "I am sad for the loss because for me it was another opportunity," said Nadal, who was also beaten in the semi-finals last year by Djokovic. "But at the same time, I created another opportunity to be in another final of a Grand Slam. "Just accept that was not my day. I played a great event. I take this in a positive way. However, he added wistfully: "At the same time, today is sad because for me I know chances are not forever." In a tight 51-minute opener, Nadal managed to save the only break point in the eighth game before surrendering the advantage of an early mini-break in the tie-breaker which Federer claimed thanks to five points in a row. The Spaniard finally carved out the first break of the semi-final in the fourth game of the second set, backing it up with a hold for 4-1. Nadal then broke again for 5-1 as Federer suffered a sudden and severe power outage with the two-time champion comfortable levelling the contest. Federer, the oldest semi-finalist in a Grand Slam semi-final since Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open, broke Nadal for the first time in the fourth game of the third set. He then fought off three break points for a key 4-1 lead, coming out on top in a 23-shot rally and then a 25-stroke exchange. There was no respite for Nadal, an 18-time Slam winner, who slipped a break down at 2-1 in the fourth. Nadal saved two match points in the ninth game and two more in the 10th but a loose return sealed his fate. Federer finished with 14 aces and 51 winners. Djokovic in the sixth final Djokovic, meanwhile, will be looking to add another Wimbledon title to the Australian and US Open crowns he already holds. "This has been a remarkable tournament for me and to be in another final is a dream come true," said the top seed. "I had to dig deep, Roberto was playing his first semi-final at a Grand Slam and he was not really overwhelmed. "It was a really close opening four to five games of the third set that could have gone either way — thankfully it went mine." Federer won his first Wimbledon duel against Djokovic in the 2012 semi-finals but the Serb triumphed in the 2014 and 2015 championship matches. Overall, Djokovic also holds a 9-6 edge in the Slams. However, Federer said he won't be over-awed by the challenge as he chases a 21st major and Djokovic targets a 16th. "Age kicks in. I know it's not over yet. There's no point to start partying tonight or get too emotional, too happy about it, even though I am extremely happy," said Federer.

Roger Federer downs Rafael Nadal to set up Novak Djokovic Wimbledon title duel

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic.

The 37-year-old Swiss can clinch a record-extending 21st major if he manages to break free of the world number one's stranglehold.

Four-time Wimbledon winner and defending champion Djokovic enjoys a 25-22 edge in career meetings, stretching back 13 years.

The Serb has won 14 of their last 20 meetings and eight of the last 10.

Federer has lost all four of their most recent meetings at the Slams and it's now seven years since he triumphed over the 32-year-old at the majors.

That was 2012 in four sets in a Wimbledon semi-final.

However, Federer, who will be 38 next month, insists such statistics are meaningless as he attempts to succeed Ken Rosewall, at the 1972 Australian Open, as the oldest Slam champion of the Open era.

"It's been a rock-solid year for me. I won in Halle (on grass on the eve of Wimbledon). The stars are aligned right now," said Federer.

"From that standpoint, I can go into the match very confident."

Federer, who passed the 100-win mark at Wimbledon in his quarter-final victory over Kei Nishikori, is feeling especially confident after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-not-done-says-rafael-nadal-after-loss-to-roger-federer-at-wimbledon-235452">seeing off Rafael Nadal</a> in four sets in the semi-final.

That win was crucial coming as it did just a month after his old rival had condemned him to his worst Slam loss in 11 years in the semi-finals at Roland Garros.

Appearing in his 12th final at the All England Club, and 16 years after his maiden Wimbledon title triumph, Federer believes there is little new that either he or Djokovic can do to prepare for Sunday's showdown.

"This is like at school -- on the day of the test you're not going to read, I don't know, how many books that day.&nbsp;

"It's quite clear the work was done way before."

There is no doubt whatsoever as to who the crowd will support.

Djokovic, a 15-time Grand Slam champion, is respected by British fans but certainly not revered in the same saintly fashion reserved for Federer.

Too intense and too new age for modest British tastes, Djokovic did little to endear himself in his semi-final win over Roberto Bautista Agut.

After a punishing 45-shot rally ended in his favour, the Serb roared out his frustration, cupped his ear and placed an admonishing finger to his lips as most of Centre Court willed the ball to fall in the Spaniard's favour.

"Look, I focus on what I need to do," said Djokovic.

"At times they wanted him to come back into the match, maybe take a lead because he was an underdog.&nbsp;

"I understand that. But I had enough support here over the years, so I don't complain."

Djokovic has yet to be truly tested at this Wimbledon.

The highest-ranked player he has faced was 21st-seeded David Goffin of Belgium who was dismissed for the loss of just six games in the quarter-finals.

The 'NextGen' hopefuls in his half of the draw all failed to fire.

Highly-regarded Stefanos Tsitsipas never made it past the first day while Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime fell in the third round.

"With Federer, we all know how good he is anywhere, but especially here. This surface complements his game very well," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 16th meeting at the Slams and 20th meeting in a tour-level final.

"He loves to play very fast. Takes away the time from his opponent. Just doesn't give you any of the same looks."

Djokovic is playing in his 25th Grand Slam final while Federer has played six more.

Whoever emerges as champion on Sunday, it will yet again confirm the dominance of the 'Big Three' of Federer, Djokovic and Nadal.

Between them, they will have won the last 11 majors, 15 of the last 17 and 54 of the last 65. 
&nbsp;

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic.

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic. The 37-year-old Swiss can clinch a record-extending 21st major if he manages to break free of the world number one's stranglehold. Four-time Wimbledon winner and defending champion Djokovic enjoys a 25-22 edge in career meetings, stretching back 13 years. The Serb has won 14 of their last 20 meetings and eight of the last 10. Federer has lost all four of their most recent meetings at the Slams and it's now seven years since he triumphed over the 32-year-old at the majors. That was 2012 in four sets in a Wimbledon semi-final. However, Federer, who will be 38 next month, insists such statistics are meaningless as he attempts to succeed Ken Rosewall, at the 1972 Australian Open, as the oldest Slam champion of the Open era. "It's been a rock-solid year for me. I won in Halle (on grass on the eve of Wimbledon). The stars are aligned right now," said Federer. "From that standpoint, I can go into the match very confident." Federer, who passed the 100-win mark at Wimbledon in his quarter-final victory over Kei Nishikori, is feeling especially confident after seeing off Rafael Nadal in four sets in the semi-final. That win was crucial coming as it did just a month after his old rival had condemned him to his worst Slam loss in 11 years in the semi-finals at Roland Garros. Appearing in his 12th final at the All England Club, and 16 years after his maiden Wimbledon title triumph, Federer believes there is little new that either he or Djokovic can do to prepare for Sunday's showdown. "This is like at school -- on the day of the test you're not going to read, I don't know, how many books that day. "It's quite clear the work was done way before." There is no doubt whatsoever as to who the crowd will support. Djokovic, a 15-time Grand Slam champion, is respected by British fans but certainly not revered in the same saintly fashion reserved for Federer. Too intense and too new age for modest British tastes, Djokovic did little to endear himself in his semi-final win over Roberto Bautista Agut. After a punishing 45-shot rally ended in his favour, the Serb roared out his frustration, cupped his ear and placed an admonishing finger to his lips as most of Centre Court willed the ball to fall in the Spaniard's favour. "Look, I focus on what I need to do," said Djokovic. "At times they wanted him to come back into the match, maybe take a lead because he was an underdog. "I understand that. But I had enough support here over the years, so I don't complain." Djokovic has yet to be truly tested at this Wimbledon. The highest-ranked player he has faced was 21st-seeded David Goffin of Belgium who was dismissed for the loss of just six games in the quarter-finals. The 'NextGen' hopefuls in his half of the draw all failed to fire. Highly-regarded Stefanos Tsitsipas never made it past the first day while Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime fell in the third round. "With Federer, we all know how good he is anywhere, but especially here. This surface complements his game very well," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 16th meeting at the Slams and 20th meeting in a tour-level final. "He loves to play very fast. Takes away the time from his opponent. Just doesn't give you any of the same looks." Djokovic is playing in his 25th Grand Slam final while Federer has played six more. Whoever emerges as champion on Sunday, it will yet again confirm the dominance of the 'Big Three' of Federer, Djokovic and Nadal. Between them, they will have won the last 11 majors, 15 of the last 17 and 54 of the last 65.

'Stars align' as Roger Federer seeks to break Novak Djokovic spell in Wimbledon final

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal battle for a place in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-to-face-simona-halep-in-wimbledon-final-235136">Wimbledon final</a> on Friday, 11 years after they mesmerised Centre Court in a Grand Slam championship match widely regarded as the greatest ever played.

Nadal emerged triumphant that day, winning in five sets in a four-hour 48-minute epic of fluctuating fortunes that stretched out over seven hours because of constant, momentum-shifting rain interruptions.

The Spaniard won 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (8/10), 9-7 as the clock ticked past 9 pm and with the famous stadium in near-darkness.

Over a decade later, the sport's two most successful players now have 38 Grand Slam titles between them and more than $100 million in prize money each.

Nadal, the 2008 and 2010 champion at Wimbledon, has the edge overall, leading his great rival and friend 24-15 and 10-3 at the Slams.

However, it is eight-time champion Federer who just edges their Wimbledon head-to-head 2-1 after winning the 2006 and 2007 finals before Nadal famously broke the spell in 2008.

Nadal, who demolished Federer in straight sets in the semi-finals at Roland Garros last month on his way to the 12th title in Paris, admits his game has developed since 2008.

Mostly, that's due to his age as well as the desperate need to protect his creaking knees which so often conspired against him on the low-bouncing lawns of the All England Club.

"I am running less so I need to serve better. I probably cannot play 20 weeks a year any more,''&nbsp;said 33-year-old Nadal.

"I am serving better. I am hitting the backhand better. Maybe volleying better, slicing better," he added.

In terms of the bare statistics, there is little to choose between them.

Nadal has served up 47 aces so far and been broken just four times; Federer has 42 aces, dropping serve on only three occasions.

The Spanish third seed has yet to face a seeded player and has only been truly tested once, in his four-set second-round victory over Nick Kyrgios in what was comfortably the tournament's most bad-tempered match.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-wins-100th-wimbledon-match-sets-up-clash-with-rafael-nadal-in-semi-final-234850">Federer</a>, 37, is the oldest man in the semi-finals of a Slam since 39-year-old Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open.

He is in his 13th semi-final at the tournament and 45th at the majors.

In a career illuminated by landmarks, he became the first man to register 100 match wins at a single Slam when he came back from a set down to beat Kei Nishikori in the quarter-finals.

'Rafa can hurt you' 
 
Federer is wary of the dangers presented by Nadal.

His loss in Paris, which took place in what he described as "insane" windy conditions, was his heaviest at the Slams in 11 years.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-rafael-nadal-keen-for-semi-final-duel-against-roger-federer-234859">Rafa </a>really can hurt anybody on any surface," said Federer.

"He's serving way different. I remember back in the day how he used to serve, and now how much bigger he's serving, how much faster he finishes points," he added.

The eager anticipation of their 40th clash has relegated defending champion Novak Djokovic's push for a fifth title to second billing.

The top seed and world number one reached the semi-finals for the ninth time, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club by sweeping past David Goffin in straight sets, reeling off 15 of the last 17 games.

In his 36th Grand Slam semi-final, the 15-time major winner faces Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut who is in his maiden last-four at the majors at the 27th attempt.

Djokovic leads the 31-year-old 7-3 in career meetings, including 3-0 at the majors.

However, the unheralded Spaniard, who had to cancel plans for his stag party in Ibiza as a consequence of his run to the semi-finals, has defeated Djokovic twice in 2019, in Doha and Miami.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal battle for a place in the Wimbledon final on Friday, 11 years after they mesmerised Centre Court in a Grand Slam championship match widely regarded as the greatest ever played.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal battle for a place in the Wimbledon final on Friday, 11 years after they mesmerised Centre Court in a Grand Slam championship match widely regarded as the greatest ever played. Nadal emerged triumphant that day, winning in five sets in a four-hour 48-minute epic of fluctuating fortunes that stretched out over seven hours because of constant, momentum-shifting rain interruptions. The Spaniard won 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (8/10), 9-7 as the clock ticked past 9 pm and with the famous stadium in near-darkness. Over a decade later, the sport's two most successful players now have 38 Grand Slam titles between them and more than $100 million in prize money each. Nadal, the 2008 and 2010 champion at Wimbledon, has the edge overall, leading his great rival and friend 24-15 and 10-3 at the Slams. However, it is eight-time champion Federer who just edges their Wimbledon head-to-head 2-1 after winning the 2006 and 2007 finals before Nadal famously broke the spell in 2008. Nadal, who demolished Federer in straight sets in the semi-finals at Roland Garros last month on his way to the 12th title in Paris, admits his game has developed since 2008. Mostly, that's due to his age as well as the desperate need to protect his creaking knees which so often conspired against him on the low-bouncing lawns of the All England Club. "I am running less so I need to serve better. I probably cannot play 20 weeks a year any more,'' said 33-year-old Nadal. "I am serving better. I am hitting the backhand better. Maybe volleying better, slicing better," he added. In terms of the bare statistics, there is little to choose between them. Nadal has served up 47 aces so far and been broken just four times; Federer has 42 aces, dropping serve on only three occasions. The Spanish third seed has yet to face a seeded player and has only been truly tested once, in his four-set second-round victory over Nick Kyrgios in what was comfortably the tournament's most bad-tempered match. Federer, 37, is the oldest man in the semi-finals of a Slam since 39-year-old Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open. He is in his 13th semi-final at the tournament and 45th at the majors. In a career illuminated by landmarks, he became the first man to register 100 match wins at a single Slam when he came back from a set down to beat Kei Nishikori in the quarter-finals. 'Rafa can hurt you' Federer is wary of the dangers presented by Nadal. His loss in Paris, which took place in what he described as "insane" windy conditions, was his heaviest at the Slams in 11 years. "Rafa really can hurt anybody on any surface," said Federer. "He's serving way different. I remember back in the day how he used to serve, and now how much bigger he's serving, how much faster he finishes points," he added. The eager anticipation of their 40th clash has relegated defending champion Novak Djokovic's push for a fifth title to second billing. The top seed and world number one reached the semi-finals for the ninth time, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club by sweeping past David Goffin in straight sets, reeling off 15 of the last 17 games. In his 36th Grand Slam semi-final, the 15-time major winner faces Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut who is in his maiden last-four at the majors at the 27th attempt. Djokovic leads the 31-year-old 7-3 in career meetings, including 3-0 at the majors. However, the unheralded Spaniard, who had to cancel plans for his stag party in Ibiza as a consequence of his run to the semi-finals, has defeated Djokovic twice in 2019, in Doha and Miami.

Wimbledon: Rafael Nadal can really hurt on any court, says Roger Federer ahead of semi-final battle

Rafael Nadal looked ahead Wednesday to the latest chapter in his "unique" rivalry with Roger Federer at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-and-serena-williams-wimbledon-dream-over-234769">Wimbledon </a>but regretted that the two heavyweights may never slug it out at the US Open.

Nadal and Federer will meet for the 40th time on Friday in the semi-finals at Wimbledon, in what will be the pair's fourth meeting at the All England Club.

Federer won the 2006 and 2007 finals before Nadal claimed the 2008 title in a five-set epic.

At Roland Garros, the pair have clashed six times while they have met on four occasions at the Australian Open.

But when it comes to the season's final Grand Slam in New York, the two have never managed to face off on the 24,000-capacity Arthur Ashe Stadium, the sport's largest arena.

That's despite Federer having five titles at the US Open while Nadal has three.

The 32-year-old Spaniard said that as much as he has enjoyed their rivalry at Wimbledon, the New York gap in their head-to-head record was a source of regret.

"We played a lot of good matches. Here in this tournament, we played two great finals, 2007 and 2008. Have been two emotional matches.''

"Personally, 2008 was a little bit more emotional for me. But I appreciate the fact that I was part of 2007, too.''

"Then we played a lot of matches all around the world. Only in New York, we didn't play. That's the only bad news," Nadal said.

Two-time Wimbledon champion Nadal was written off as a grass court force when he failed to get beyond the fourth round at the tournament between 2012 and 2017.

However, he came agonisingly close to the final in 2018 when he lost to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-destroys-david-goffin-to-reach-semis-234792">Novak Djokovic</a> in a five-hour, 16-minute semi-final.

"To play against Roger always is a unique situation. Excited to be back on this court against him after 11 years," added Nadal.

"Always I say the same -- the opportunities to play against each other every time are less, but we are still here. After tomorrow we going to have another chance," said Nadal.

Rafael Nadal looked ahead Wednesday to the latest chapter in his "unique" rivalry with Roger Federer at Wimbledon but regretted that the two heavyweights may never slug it out at the US Open.

Rafael Nadal looked ahead Wednesday to the latest chapter in his "unique" rivalry with Roger Federer at Wimbledon but regretted that the two heavyweights may never slug it out at the US Open. Nadal and Federer will meet for the 40th time on Friday in the semi-finals at Wimbledon, in what will be the pair's fourth meeting at the All England Club. Federer won the 2006 and 2007 finals before Nadal claimed the 2008 title in a five-set epic. At Roland Garros, the pair have clashed six times while they have met on four occasions at the Australian Open. But when it comes to the season's final Grand Slam in New York, the two have never managed to face off on the 24,000-capacity Arthur Ashe Stadium, the sport's largest arena. That's despite Federer having five titles at the US Open while Nadal has three. The 32-year-old Spaniard said that as much as he has enjoyed their rivalry at Wimbledon, the New York gap in their head-to-head record was a source of regret. "We played a lot of good matches. Here in this tournament, we played two great finals, 2007 and 2008. Have been two emotional matches.'' "Personally, 2008 was a little bit more emotional for me. But I appreciate the fact that I was part of 2007, too.'' "Then we played a lot of matches all around the world. Only in New York, we didn't play. That's the only bad news," Nadal said. Two-time Wimbledon champion Nadal was written off as a grass court force when he failed to get beyond the fourth round at the tournament between 2012 and 2017. However, he came agonisingly close to the final in 2018 when he lost to Novak Djokovic in a five-hour, 16-minute semi-final. "To play against Roger always is a unique situation. Excited to be back on this court against him after 11 years," added Nadal. "Always I say the same -- the opportunities to play against each other every time are less, but we are still here. After tomorrow we going to have another chance," said Nadal.

Wimbledon: Rafael Nadal keen for semi-final duel against Roger Federer

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Goffin will wonder just what happened after he looked the better player in the early stages and broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set. Half an hour later he had lost 10 games in a row and the match was effectively over as Djokovic went on to triumph 6-4, 6-0, 6-2.

The 32-year-old Serb was at his clinical best as he soaked up the early punches without panic then imposed himself in every aspect of the contest to such an extent that Goffin, 28, was left flailing on Centre Court.

Djokovic, who has lost only once at a Grand Slam in the last 12 months, is into his ninth Wimbledon semi-final – only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer have been in more – where he will face Spanish world number 22 Roberto Bautista Agut.

Djokovic has reached the semis having dropped one set and been broken only five times in five matches and was delighted with how Wednesday's match eventually unfolded.

"He started well and was dictating the play from the baseline," he said. "Things could have gone a different way - who knows what the match would have looked like if I had lost the first set?

"I think it was the turning point, it was a huge relief for me mentally. I started relaxing, going through the ball a bit more and I felt like I managed to dismantle his game and find the right shots."

Look Dangerous

It is not an uncommon pattern for the outsider to come out swinging and look dangerous, only to fall away, but the contrast was particularly extreme on Wednesday.

The Belgian was clearly the better player for much of the first set and though Djokovic saved break points in early games he could not prevent Goffin cashing in on more in the seventh as, showing great court speed, he broke for 4-3.

The crowd settled down for what they thought might be a classic battle but it proved to be the high water mark for Goffin as Djokovic started to find his return range, broke back immediately, held without trouble and broke again to bag the set.

Goffin, from dominating the rallies, was suddenly having to work desperately hard to stay in them, usually failing.

As Djokovic’s accuracy improved, particularly his service returns, his opponent’s slipped dramatically and he played a horror game to lose serve again to love and slide to 4-0 down, and then quickly 6-0 as he conceded the second set.

Goffin then received what all pros must hate – the Centre Court sympathy clap – when he finally held serve for 1-1 in the third set.

But he was barely going through the motions after that as the Serb cruised through to finish off the match in less than two hours.

"As soon as he was a break down he started to play a little bit - everything was a little bit deeper, he served a little bit better and it was tough after that," Goffin said.

"Even if you play well, it's not enough because he continues to play deep, deep, close from the line, left, right. Amazing backhand down the line, as well. He was everywhere."

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals. Goffin will wonder just what happened after he looked the better player in the early stages and broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set. Half an hour later he had lost 10 games in a row and the match was effectively over as Djokovic went on to triumph 6-4, 6-0, 6-2. The 32-year-old Serb was at his clinical best as he soaked up the early punches without panic then imposed himself in every aspect of the contest to such an extent that Goffin, 28, was left flailing on Centre Court. Djokovic, who has lost only once at a Grand Slam in the last 12 months, is into his ninth Wimbledon semi-final – only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer have been in more – where he will face Spanish world number 22 Roberto Bautista Agut. Djokovic has reached the semis having dropped one set and been broken only five times in five matches and was delighted with how Wednesday's match eventually unfolded. "He started well and was dictating the play from the baseline," he said. "Things could have gone a different way - who knows what the match would have looked like if I had lost the first set? "I think it was the turning point, it was a huge relief for me mentally. I started relaxing, going through the ball a bit more and I felt like I managed to dismantle his game and find the right shots." Look Dangerous It is not an uncommon pattern for the outsider to come out swinging and look dangerous, only to fall away, but the contrast was particularly extreme on Wednesday. The Belgian was clearly the better player for much of the first set and though Djokovic saved break points in early games he could not prevent Goffin cashing in on more in the seventh as, showing great court speed, he broke for 4-3. The crowd settled down for what they thought might be a classic battle but it proved to be the high water mark for Goffin as Djokovic started to find his return range, broke back immediately, held without trouble and broke again to bag the set. Goffin, from dominating the rallies, was suddenly having to work desperately hard to stay in them, usually failing. As Djokovic’s accuracy improved, particularly his service returns, his opponent’s slipped dramatically and he played a horror game to lose serve again to love and slide to 4-0 down, and then quickly 6-0 as he conceded the second set. Goffin then received what all pros must hate – the Centre Court sympathy clap – when he finally held serve for 1-1 in the third set. But he was barely going through the motions after that as the Serb cruised through to finish off the match in less than two hours. "As soon as he was a break down he started to play a little bit - everything was a little bit deeper, he served a little bit better and it was tough after that," Goffin said. "Even if you play well, it's not enough because he continues to play deep, deep, close from the line, left, right. Amazing backhand down the line, as well. He was everywhere."

Novak Djokovic destroys David Goffin to reach semis

Four-time champion Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the ninth time on Wednesday, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club in the process.

The top seed and world number one hit back from a break down in the first set to carve out a commanding 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 win over 21st seed David Goffin of Belgium.

In a ruthless display, the defending champion reeled off 15 of the last 17 games to secure a place in the semi-finals of the majors for the 36th time.

Next up is Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut, who made his first Grand Slam semi-final with a 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 over Argentina's Guido Pella.

"He started well and was dictating play from the baseline," 32-year-old Djokovic said of Goffin.

"Things could have gone a different way if I had lost the first set but I was very pleased with the second and third.

He added: "I had a tough match in the third round (against Hubert Hurkacz). Other than that, I've won in straight sets and played really well throughout the tournament.

"It's exactly what I wanted and hopefully I can go in the right direction in the semis as well."

Goffin was on top in the early stages as he sensed the opportunity to become the first Belgian man to make the semi-finals at a Slam since Xavier Malisse at Wimbledon in 2002.

The 28-year-old broke for a 4-3 lead but 16-time Slam winner Djokovic then reeled off the next nine games, taking the first set, and the second in which he allowed the Belgian just four points on his serve.

Federer v Nadal in semis?

The contest was over by the time Djokovic broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set.

Bautista Agut, 31, booked his first appearance in a Slam last-four at the 27th attempt by seeing off Pella, who had never previously reached a quarter-final at the majors.

"Novak is the number one in the world and he's playing really well on grass," said Bautista Agut, who has a 3-7 record against the Serb.

However, two of those wins came this year in Doha and Miami.

Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon later Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal.

If it does happen, it will be their first match at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest-ever Wimbledon final.

However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey.

At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games.

Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final.

Nishikori, playing in his second successive Wimbledon quarter-final, defeated the Swiss great in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years.

He is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals.

Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American.

Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic.

The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round.

"When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record.

Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008.

Four-time champion Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the ninth time on Wednesday, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club in the process.

Four-time champion Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the ninth time on Wednesday, racking up his 70th career win at the All England Club in the process. The top seed and world number one hit back from a break down in the first set to carve out a commanding 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 win over 21st seed David Goffin of Belgium. In a ruthless display, the defending champion reeled off 15 of the last 17 games to secure a place in the semi-finals of the majors for the 36th time. Next up is Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut, who made his first Grand Slam semi-final with a 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 over Argentina's Guido Pella. "He started well and was dictating play from the baseline," 32-year-old Djokovic said of Goffin. "Things could have gone a different way if I had lost the first set but I was very pleased with the second and third. He added: "I had a tough match in the third round (against Hubert Hurkacz). Other than that, I've won in straight sets and played really well throughout the tournament. "It's exactly what I wanted and hopefully I can go in the right direction in the semis as well." Goffin was on top in the early stages as he sensed the opportunity to become the first Belgian man to make the semi-finals at a Slam since Xavier Malisse at Wimbledon in 2002. The 28-year-old broke for a 4-3 lead but 16-time Slam winner Djokovic then reeled off the next nine games, taking the first set, and the second in which he allowed the Belgian just four points on his serve. Federer v Nadal in semis? The contest was over by the time Djokovic broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set. Bautista Agut, 31, booked his first appearance in a Slam last-four at the 27th attempt by seeing off Pella, who had never previously reached a quarter-final at the majors. "Novak is the number one in the world and he's playing really well on grass," said Bautista Agut, who has a 3-7 record against the Serb. However, two of those wins came this year in Doha and Miami. Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon later Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal. If it does happen, it will be their first match at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest-ever Wimbledon final. However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey. At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991. He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games. Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final. Nishikori, playing in his second successive Wimbledon quarter-final, defeated the Swiss great in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years. He is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals. Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American. Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic. The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round. "When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record. Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008.

Novak Djokovic into ninth Wimbledon semi as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal eye match-up

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-roger-federer-bags-more-records-as-he-downs-lucas-pouille-to-reach-last-16-233734">Roger Federer</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-says-bernard-tomics-ps45000-wimbledon-penalty-unfair-233515">Novak Djokovic</a>, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-rafael-nadals-to-battle-tough-tsonga-in-third-round-233484">Rafael Nadal</a> eased into the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-fined-10000-for-damaging-wimbledon-court-234198">Wimbledon</a> quarter-finals on Monday as the sport's Grand Slam heavyweights continued to deliver blow after blow to their wilting lightweight rivals.

Federer became the oldest man to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final in 28 years when he booked his place in the last-eight for the 17th time.

The eight-time champion breezed past Italy's Matteo Berrettini 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 in just 74 minutes to make sure of a spot in his 55th quarter-final at the Slams.

It was also his 99th win at the All England Club.

At 37, he is the oldest man to reach the last eight at the majors since 39-year-old Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open.

Federer, who hit 24 winners and just five unforced errors, will face Japan's Kei Nishikori for a place in the semi-finals.

Defending champion and world number one Djokovic reached his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the majors with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win over France's Ugo Humbert.

Third seed Nadal, the 2008 and 2010 champion, swept to an easy 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 win over outclassed Joao Sousa of Portugal to book his place in a seventh quarter-final at the All England Club.

Between them, the 'Big Three' faced just one break point on Monday and dropped a combined 19 games.

"I'm really getting into a good groove now, today I was able to read his serve, get the returns back in play and hit well from the baseline," said Federer who could face Nadal in a blockbuster semi-final.

"I'm still getting used to the conditions also but on the performance, it was a really good match for me."

Japanese eighth seed Nishikori defeated Mikhail Kukushkin of Kazakhstan 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the last eight for the second successive year.

The 29-year-old trails Federer 3-7 in career meetings although he won their most recent clash at the ATP Finals in London at the end of last season.

Four-time champion and top seed Djokovic will face Belgium's David Goffin for a place in the semi-finals.

Djokovic, 32, has a 5-1 career record over 21st seed Goffin who will be playing in his first Wimbledon quarter-final.

Humbert, the world number 66, had never played a match on grass before this season and was defeated in just one hour and 42 minutes.

"My plan always is to reach the final stages at Grand Slams," said Djokovic who converted five of nine break points on Monday.

"Wimbledon has been a special tournament that has motivated me throughout my life."

Nadal next plays Sam Querrey, against whom he holds a 4-1 record.

- 'Body holding well' - 
The 33-year-old Spaniard is chasing his 19th title at the majors, which would put him just one behind the record of 20 held by Federer.

"A lot of positive things out there. To be back in the quarter-finals is great news for me," said Nadal who took just three minutes more than Djokovic to complete his day's work.

Goffin matched his best-ever performance at the majors by reaching his first Wimbledon quarter-final.

The Belgian beat Spain's Fernando Verdasco 7-6 (11/9), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.

"It's so tough to beat Novak in the best of five and especially here on the grass," admitted 28-year-old Goffin.

"Even for Roger, it will probably be the toughest challenge."

Also joining Nadal in the last-eight was his compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut who reached his first Wimbledon quarter-final and second at the majors this year when he defeated France's Benoit Paire 6-3, 7-5, 6-2.

The 31-year-old world number 22 will face either 2016 runner-up Milos Raonic of Canada or Argentina's Guido Pella for a place in the semi-finals.

Paire said he was seriously under-par.

"I have a tear in my abdominal, so I try to serve, like, 60%, 70%, but it's tough," said the Frenchman.

Bautista Agut, who has now defeated Paire seven times in seven meetings, also made the quarter-finals at the Australian Open in January.

With Federer, Djokovic, Nadal, Querrey and Bautista Agut all winning, there will be five 30-somethings in the last eight.

Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal eased into the Wimbledon quarter-finals on Monday as the sport's Grand Slam heavyweights continued to deliver blow after blow to their wilting lightweight rivals.

Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal eased into the Wimbledon quarter-finals on Monday as the sport's Grand Slam heavyweights continued to deliver blow after blow to their wilting lightweight rivals. Federer became the oldest man to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final in 28 years when he booked his place in the last-eight for the 17th time. The eight-time champion breezed past Italy's Matteo Berrettini 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 in just 74 minutes to make sure of a spot in his 55th quarter-final at the Slams. It was also his 99th win at the All England Club. At 37, he is the oldest man to reach the last eight at the majors since 39-year-old Jimmy Connors at the 1991 US Open. Federer, who hit 24 winners and just five unforced errors, will face Japan's Kei Nishikori for a place in the semi-finals. Defending champion and world number one Djokovic reached his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the majors with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win over France's Ugo Humbert. Third seed Nadal, the 2008 and 2010 champion, swept to an easy 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 win over outclassed Joao Sousa of Portugal to book his place in a seventh quarter-final at the All England Club. Between them, the 'Big Three' faced just one break point on Monday and dropped a combined 19 games. "I'm really getting into a good groove now, today I was able to read his serve, get the returns back in play and hit well from the baseline," said Federer who could face Nadal in a blockbuster semi-final. "I'm still getting used to the conditions also but on the performance, it was a really good match for me." Japanese eighth seed Nishikori defeated Mikhail Kukushkin of Kazakhstan 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the last eight for the second successive year. The 29-year-old trails Federer 3-7 in career meetings although he won their most recent clash at the ATP Finals in London at the end of last season. Four-time champion and top seed Djokovic will face Belgium's David Goffin for a place in the semi-finals. Djokovic, 32, has a 5-1 career record over 21st seed Goffin who will be playing in his first Wimbledon quarter-final. Humbert, the world number 66, had never played a match on grass before this season and was defeated in just one hour and 42 minutes. "My plan always is to reach the final stages at Grand Slams," said Djokovic who converted five of nine break points on Monday. "Wimbledon has been a special tournament that has motivated me throughout my life." Nadal next plays Sam Querrey, against whom he holds a 4-1 record. - 'Body holding well' - The 33-year-old Spaniard is chasing his 19th title at the majors, which would put him just one behind the record of 20 held by Federer. "A lot of positive things out there. To be back in the quarter-finals is great news for me," said Nadal who took just three minutes more than Djokovic to complete his day's work. Goffin matched his best-ever performance at the majors by reaching his first Wimbledon quarter-final. The Belgian beat Spain's Fernando Verdasco 7-6 (11/9), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4. "It's so tough to beat Novak in the best of five and especially here on the grass," admitted 28-year-old Goffin. "Even for Roger, it will probably be the toughest challenge." Also joining Nadal in the last-eight was his compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut who reached his first Wimbledon quarter-final and second at the majors this year when he defeated France's Benoit Paire 6-3, 7-5, 6-2. The 31-year-old world number 22 will face either 2016 runner-up Milos Raonic of Canada or Argentina's Guido Pella for a place in the semi-finals. Paire said he was seriously under-par. "I have a tear in my abdominal, so I try to serve, like, 60%, 70%, but it's tough," said the Frenchman. Bautista Agut, who has now defeated Paire seven times in seven meetings, also made the quarter-finals at the Australian Open in January. With Federer, Djokovic, Nadal, Querrey and Bautista Agut all winning, there will be five 30-somethings in the last eight.

Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal untroubled at Wimbledon as Monday proves not so manic

After Rafa Nadal won a thrilling four-set encounter with <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-nick-kyrgios-admits-deliberately-hitting-ball-at-rafael-nadal-233181&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi4va_bzJ_jAhXFuY8KHc1vB2gQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1nAolcIxGE4iVBp1vad-84">Nick Kyrgios</a>, the Spaniard repeated his lament that he had got a tough draw at the All England Club, ahead of his third-round clash against Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga on Saturday.

Although Nadal is ranked second in the world, his absence from numerous grasscourt tournaments ultimately gave him the third seeding at Wimbledon, prompting him to complain before the tournament got underway.

"It's true that I have been (handed) a tough draw, a tough opponent for a second round," Nadal said after his victory over Kyrgios. "You want to face less in a second-round like this, especially here.

"Now I have another tough opponent in Tsonga. Every match is tough, my draw is (a) tough one," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-says-wimbledons-seedings-system-not-a-good-thing-230352&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi4va_bzJ_jAhXFuY8KHc1vB2gQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2HPzidhwrP5f7RPWx9xoPz">Nadal </a>said.

While Nadal had to dig deep against Kyrgios, Tsonga has yet to drop a set.

The 34-year-old said he had been shown a lack of respect after his first-round opponent Bernard Tomic was fined for playing below standards in a match that lasted only 58 minutes - the shortest Wimbledon men's match for 15 years.

"In the third set he played and it was tight," Tsonga said. "And I played well to win this set. So I don't know."

Tsonga's frustration at his victory being questioned stems from his own struggles to claw his way back up the rankings after falling out of the top 100.

He played only 12 matches in 2018, missing three Grand Slams with a knee injury, which led to his singles ranking plummeting from 15 to 262.

A title win in Montpellier in February helped him to recover some measure of consistency and move up to 72nd, 70 places below Nadal.

Tsonga has an uncanny ability to get results against top players and he has beaten the Spaniard four times in his career, winning their last meeting in 2015.

The pair will have to wait for their Centre Court match-up though after women's top seed Ash Barty plays British wildcard, Harriet Dart.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-roger-federer-crushes-jay-clarke-eases-into-third-round-233168&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJjOvxzJ_jAhXKso8KHQNkD3IQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2r0bzXcSl5Euj3LbovNbb4">Roger Federer</a> is also in action on Centre Court later on Saturday when he takes on Frenchman Lucas Pouille.

American Serena Williams plays Germany's Julia Goerges on Court One while Czech sixth seed Petra Kvitova takes on Poland's Magda Linette on Court Two.

After Rafa Nadal won a thrilling four-set encounter with Nick Kyrgios, the Spaniard repeated his lament that he had got a tough draw at the All England Club, ahead of his third-round clash against Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga on Saturday.

After Rafa Nadal won a thrilling four-set encounter with Nick Kyrgios, the Spaniard repeated his lament that he had got a tough draw at the All England Club, ahead of his third-round clash against Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga on Saturday. Although Nadal is ranked second in the world, his absence from numerous grasscourt tournaments ultimately gave him the third seeding at Wimbledon, prompting him to complain before the tournament got underway. "It's true that I have been (handed) a tough draw, a tough opponent for a second round," Nadal said after his victory over Kyrgios. "You want to face less in a second-round like this, especially here. "Now I have another tough opponent in Tsonga. Every match is tough, my draw is (a) tough one," Nadal said. While Nadal had to dig deep against Kyrgios, Tsonga has yet to drop a set. The 34-year-old said he had been shown a lack of respect after his first-round opponent Bernard Tomic was fined for playing below standards in a match that lasted only 58 minutes - the shortest Wimbledon men's match for 15 years. "In the third set he played and it was tight," Tsonga said. "And I played well to win this set. So I don't know." Tsonga's frustration at his victory being questioned stems from his own struggles to claw his way back up the rankings after falling out of the top 100. He played only 12 matches in 2018, missing three Grand Slams with a knee injury, which led to his singles ranking plummeting from 15 to 262. A title win in Montpellier in February helped him to recover some measure of consistency and move up to 72nd, 70 places below Nadal. Tsonga has an uncanny ability to get results against top players and he has beaten the Spaniard four times in his career, winning their last meeting in 2015. The pair will have to wait for their Centre Court match-up though after women's top seed Ash Barty plays British wildcard, Harriet Dart. Roger Federer is also in action on Centre Court later on Saturday when he takes on Frenchman Lucas Pouille. American Serena Williams plays Germany's Julia Goerges on Court One while Czech sixth seed Petra Kvitova takes on Poland's Magda Linette on Court Two.

Wimbledon: Rafael Nadal to battle tough Tsonga in third round

When Novak Djokovic stood with a hand on hip midway through the second-set tiebreak, glaring down at young Polish upstart Hubert Hurkacz, he could scarcely believe the drama unfolding before his eyes in his third-round Wimbledon showdown on Friday.

The world number one was caught up by hurricane Hurkacz as he came off second best in all the razzle-dazzle shots the 22-year-old could throw at him and he was also banned from wearing his baseball cap by the umpire as it fell foul of Wimbledon's all-white rules.

However, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-novak-djokovic-sweeps-through-under-keen-gaze-of-ivanisevic-232118&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwib7ovX05_jAhUX3o8KHWcPDYoQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3dxM2SsmoLG8cdNSxORtkg">Djokovic </a>is not known as Mr Consistency for nothing and he survived all the hullabaloo to reach the last 16 for the 12th time at the grasscourt major with a 7-5, 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-4 win.

"For the opposition, he is sickeningly consistent," summed up American great John McEnroe.

"He isn't flashy, he doesn't play with the same intensity point in point out as (Rafa) Nadal does, his shots are not as beautiful as (Roger) Federer's - but rock-solid is an understatement. He is so efficient," McEnroe said.

That efficiency has earned Djokovic 74 titles, including 15 majors, and more than $130 million in prize money.

Hurkacz, on the other hand, can only dream of such riches or records as his trophy cabinet lies empty while his bank balance would be considered loose change in Djokovic's pocket.

Playing the Serbian for the second time at a major in five weeks, the world number 48 was expected to roll over in straight sets, just as he had done at Roland Garros.

But when the top seed was told by umpire Carlos Bernardes to remove his baseball cap midway through the first set, for a while it looked like he had been shorn of his super-powers as he missed three break points in the sixth game.

"The last match on Centre Court, I played with the hat. The same hat I took out now, I was not able to play with it," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-defending-champion-novak-djokovic-eases-into-third-round-232930&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwib7ovX05_jAhUX3o8KHWcPDYoQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-89AoIJ7KeDX8dxT3JQM2">Djokovic</a>, the only top-10 seed left in the top half of the draw, said with a shrug.

AUDACIOUS SHOTS

The four-times champion eventually broke for a 6-5 lead but not before Hurkacz had offered a glimpse of what was to come in the second set as he acrobatically fell to his stomach and his racket went flying while chasing down a Djokovic drop shot.

Hurkacz raised his fist to the roaring Court One crowd when he gave Djokovic the run-around during a delightful, 29-shot exchange that culminated with a sliced forehand winner in the third game of the second.

The hollering fans were on their feet again when he earned a set point at 6-5 up on Djokovic's serve with a brilliant diving winner that would have made <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/boris-becker-auctions-trophies-to-pay-off-debts-229944&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj6w_n_05_jAhVinI8KHZj9DbwQFjABegQIEBAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Y6wVinTytae78kZ-VbYP3">Boris Becker</a> proud.

The crowd groaned when he fluffed the next point but the thrills kept on coming in the tiebreak as he finished off a 30-stroke rally by punching away a volley as he fell into the splits.

Djokovic simply could not believe the audacious shots that kept flying his way and he would have been even less pleased when Hurkacz levelled the match on this third set point with a blazing crosscourt winner.

But, as the Pole found out to his dismay in double quick time, winning even one set against one of tennis's Big Three sucks up an enormous amount of energy.

To win three is nigh on impossible during the first week of a major and so it proved. Hurkacz's challenge fizzled out in the next two sets as he discovered that while the heart was willing, the tiring legs could not keep up.

"Djokovic sets the bar so high. You have to play the match of your life just to stay in it. Hurkacz played exceptionally well, he just didn't have enough in the tank," added McEnroe.

After dropping his first set at this year's championships, the Serb will be looking to do better when he meets France's Ugo Humbert on Monday.

When Novak Djokovic stood with a hand on hip midway through the second-set tiebreak, glaring down at young Polish upstart Hubert Hurkacz, he could scarcely believe the drama unfolding before his eyes in his third-round Wimbledon showdown on Friday.

When Novak Djokovic stood with a hand on hip midway through the second-set tiebreak, glaring down at young Polish upstart Hubert Hurkacz, he could scarcely believe the drama unfolding before his eyes in his third-round Wimbledon showdown on Friday. The world number one was caught up by hurricane Hurkacz as he came off second best in all the razzle-dazzle shots the 22-year-old could throw at him and he was also banned from wearing his baseball cap by the umpire as it fell foul of Wimbledon's all-white rules. However, Djokovic is not known as Mr Consistency for nothing and he survived all the hullabaloo to reach the last 16 for the 12th time at the grasscourt major with a 7-5, 6-7(5), 6-1, 6-4 win. "For the opposition, he is sickeningly consistent," summed up American great John McEnroe. "He isn't flashy, he doesn't play with the same intensity point in point out as (Rafa) Nadal does, his shots are not as beautiful as (Roger) Federer's - but rock-solid is an understatement. He is so efficient," McEnroe said. That efficiency has earned Djokovic 74 titles, including 15 majors, and more than $130 million in prize money. Hurkacz, on the other hand, can only dream of such riches or records as his trophy cabinet lies empty while his bank balance would be considered loose change in Djokovic's pocket. Playing the Serbian for the second time at a major in five weeks, the world number 48 was expected to roll over in straight sets, just as he had done at Roland Garros. But when the top seed was told by umpire Carlos Bernardes to remove his baseball cap midway through the first set, for a while it looked like he had been shorn of his super-powers as he missed three break points in the sixth game. "The last match on Centre Court, I played with the hat. The same hat I took out now, I was not able to play with it," Djokovic, the only top-10 seed left in the top half of the draw, said with a shrug. AUDACIOUS SHOTS The four-times champion eventually broke for a 6-5 lead but not before Hurkacz had offered a glimpse of what was to come in the second set as he acrobatically fell to his stomach and his racket went flying while chasing down a Djokovic drop shot. Hurkacz raised his fist to the roaring Court One crowd when he gave Djokovic the run-around during a delightful, 29-shot exchange that culminated with a sliced forehand winner in the third game of the second. The hollering fans were on their feet again when he earned a set point at 6-5 up on Djokovic's serve with a brilliant diving winner that would have made Boris Becker proud. The crowd groaned when he fluffed the next point but the thrills kept on coming in the tiebreak as he finished off a 30-stroke rally by punching away a volley as he fell into the splits. Djokovic simply could not believe the audacious shots that kept flying his way and he would have been even less pleased when Hurkacz levelled the match on this third set point with a blazing crosscourt winner. But, as the Pole found out to his dismay in double quick time, winning even one set against one of tennis's Big Three sucks up an enormous amount of energy. To win three is nigh on impossible during the first week of a major and so it proved. Hurkacz's challenge fizzled out in the next two sets as he discovered that while the heart was willing, the tiring legs could not keep up. "Djokovic sets the bar so high. You have to play the match of your life just to stay in it. Hurkacz played exceptionally well, he just didn't have enough in the tank," added McEnroe. After dropping his first set at this year's championships, the Serb will be looking to do better when he meets France's Ugo Humbert on Monday.

Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic survives hurricane Hurkacz to reach last 16

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-novak-djokovic-survives-hurricane-hurkacz-to-reach-last-16-233493">Novak Djokovic</a> blasted the decision to strip Bernard Tomic of his entire £45,000 ($56,000) Wimbledon prize money as "unfair."

The controversial Australian was punished by the All England Club for tanking in his first-round match which was over in just 58 minutes.

The 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was the shortest men's match at the tournament.

"I don't think it's fair to take all his prize money away," said Djokovic on Friday.

"I have to see obviously his behaviour, movement on the court, how much effort he put in. He deserved his right to be in this tournament. He's a top 100 player.&nbsp;

"He's worked all year to be here. He deserves most of that prize money."

World number one and defending Wimbledon champion Djokovic, who is also the president of the ATP Player Council, believes other factors could have come into play which would have been mitigating.

"It's not nice for the crowd, the other players that maybe would want to be in the position to fight to get to the second round.&nbsp;

"But he played against Tsonga, who is a great player on grass."

Novak Djokovic blasted the decision to strip Bernard Tomic of his entire £45,000 ($56,000) Wimbledon prize money as "unfair." The controversial Australian was punished by the All England Club for tanking in his first-round match which was over in just 58 minutes.

Novak Djokovic blasted the decision to strip Bernard Tomic of his entire £45,000 ($56,000) Wimbledon prize money as "unfair." The controversial Australian was punished by the All England Club for tanking in his first-round match which was over in just 58 minutes. The 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was the shortest men's match at the tournament. "I don't think it's fair to take all his prize money away," said Djokovic on Friday. "I have to see obviously his behaviour, movement on the court, how much effort he put in. He deserved his right to be in this tournament. He's a top 100 player. "He's worked all year to be here. He deserves most of that prize money." World number one and defending Wimbledon champion Djokovic, who is also the president of the ATP Player Council, believes other factors could have come into play which would have been mitigating. "It's not nice for the crowd, the other players that maybe would want to be in the position to fight to get to the second round. "But he played against Tsonga, who is a great player on grass."

Novak Djokovic says Bernard Tomic's £45,000 Wimbledon penalty 'unfair'

Nick Kyrgios admitted he meant to spear a forehand directly at Rafael Nadal in their <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-nick-kyrgios-and-rafael-nadal-set-to-renew-salty-rivalry-232630&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiT24W3i53jAhWQ-2EKHWGQD9EQFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Bsz_9Q9JegKvRuN92v21N">bad-tempered Wimbledon clash</a> on Thursday.

Nadal triumphed 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/3) in a second-round Centre Court duel which saw the combustible Australian pick up a code violation for unsportsmanlike behaviour and wage a bitter war of words with umpire Damien Dumusois.

He called the official a "disgrace", describing his handling of the explosive tie as "pathetic" for failing to warn the Spaniard over what he claimed was his pedestrian pace of play.

The two players faced down each other in the eighth game of the third set when Nadal had to take evasive action with his racquet to fend off a blistering forehand aimed straight at him by the Australian.

"I was going for him. Yeah, I wanted to hit him square in the chest. Like, he's got decent hands," said 24-year-old Kyrgios.

"Why would I apologise? I mean, the dude has got how many slams, how much money in the bank account?&nbsp;

"I think he can take a ball to the chest, bro. I'm not going to apologise to him at all," Kyrgios said.

Nadal said he was unconcerned for his own safety when the ball came towards him at high speed but feared for others if the ball had gone astray.

"When he hits the ball like this, it is dangerous. It's not dangerous for me, it is dangerous for a line referee, dangerous for the crowd," said the two-time Wimbledon champion.

"I know when you hit this kind of ball, the ball can go anywhere. This time the ball went in, almost hit me, no problem.''

"I am a professional, so I know how to avoid this. But another one, the ball goes straight to the back. That ball hits an eye or something like this, it is a problem," Nadal said.

Kyrgios, who famously announced himself to the tennis world when he defeated Nadal at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-clarke-dumps-dart-last-minute-to-pair-up-with-cori-gauff-for-mixed-doubles-233018">Wimbledon </a>in 2014 as a wild card ranked at 144, spent the eve of Thursday's match in a local bar.

It was a decision he did not regret.

"You look way too excited to ask that question. You must have a really boring life," he chastised a reporter.

Nadal had suggested that Kyrgios does have the makings of a Grand Slam champion but the Australian doubts he has the work ethic to achieve such a lofty ambition.

"I know what I'm capable of. Just depends. I'm a great tennis player, but I don't do the other stuff.''

"I'm not the most professional guy. I won't train day in, day out. I won't show up every day. So there's a lot of things I need to improve on to get to that level that Rafa brings, Novak (Djokovic), <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-roger-federer-seeded-second-rafael-nadal-drops-to-three-230601&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE5prMi53jAhVS62EKHTAGALIQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw18IqpNUoX1HDeIliN5WzYN">Roger </a>(Federer) have been doing for so long.''

"Just depends how bad I want it. But, no, at the moment I don't think I can contend for a Grand Slam," Kyrgios said.

But Nadal insisted that all Kyrgios needs is respect for the sport, something which he accused the Australian of patently lacking when they clashed in Acapulco in February.

"If, if, if. Doesn't exist. There are a lot of important things that you need to do to become a champion,'' Nadal said.

"He has a lot of good ingredients. But, of course, there remains an important one sometimes, and that is the love, the passion for this game. Without really loving this game that much, is difficult to achieve important things," added Nadal.

Nick Kyrgios admitted he meant to spear a forehand directly at Rafael Nadal in their bad-tempered Wimbledon clash on Thursday. Nadal triumphed 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/3) in a second-round Centre Court duel which saw the combustible Australian pick up a code violation for unsportsmanlike behaviour and wage a bitter war of words with umpire Damien Dumusois.

Nick Kyrgios admitted he meant to spear a forehand directly at Rafael Nadal in their bad-tempered Wimbledon clash on Thursday. Nadal triumphed 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/3) in a second-round Centre Court duel which saw the combustible Australian pick up a code violation for unsportsmanlike behaviour and wage a bitter war of words with umpire Damien Dumusois. He called the official a "disgrace", describing his handling of the explosive tie as "pathetic" for failing to warn the Spaniard over what he claimed was his pedestrian pace of play. The two players faced down each other in the eighth game of the third set when Nadal had to take evasive action with his racquet to fend off a blistering forehand aimed straight at him by the Australian. "I was going for him. Yeah, I wanted to hit him square in the chest. Like, he's got decent hands," said 24-year-old Kyrgios. "Why would I apologise? I mean, the dude has got how many slams, how much money in the bank account? "I think he can take a ball to the chest, bro. I'm not going to apologise to him at all," Kyrgios said. Nadal said he was unconcerned for his own safety when the ball came towards him at high speed but feared for others if the ball had gone astray. "When he hits the ball like this, it is dangerous. It's not dangerous for me, it is dangerous for a line referee, dangerous for the crowd," said the two-time Wimbledon champion. "I know when you hit this kind of ball, the ball can go anywhere. This time the ball went in, almost hit me, no problem.'' "I am a professional, so I know how to avoid this. But another one, the ball goes straight to the back. That ball hits an eye or something like this, it is a problem," Nadal said. Kyrgios, who famously announced himself to the tennis world when he defeated Nadal at Wimbledon in 2014 as a wild card ranked at 144, spent the eve of Thursday's match in a local bar. It was a decision he did not regret. "You look way too excited to ask that question. You must have a really boring life," he chastised a reporter. Nadal had suggested that Kyrgios does have the makings of a Grand Slam champion but the Australian doubts he has the work ethic to achieve such a lofty ambition. "I know what I'm capable of. Just depends. I'm a great tennis player, but I don't do the other stuff.'' "I'm not the most professional guy. I won't train day in, day out. I won't show up every day. So there's a lot of things I need to improve on to get to that level that Rafa brings, Novak (Djokovic), Roger (Federer) have been doing for so long.'' "Just depends how bad I want it. But, no, at the moment I don't think I can contend for a Grand Slam," Kyrgios said. But Nadal insisted that all Kyrgios needs is respect for the sport, something which he accused the Australian of patently lacking when they clashed in Acapulco in February. "If, if, if. Doesn't exist. There are a lot of important things that you need to do to become a champion,'' Nadal said. "He has a lot of good ingredients. But, of course, there remains an important one sometimes, and that is the love, the passion for this game. Without really loving this game that much, is difficult to achieve important things," added Nadal.

Wimbledon: Nick Kyrgios admits deliberately hitting ball at Rafael Nadal

Novak Djokovic trails Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal in many of the game's most important metrics, but when it comes to consistently reaching the third round at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-ashleigh-barty-embraces-number-one-tag-cruises-into-second-round-232654">Wimbledon</a>, which he achieved with dazzling ease on Wednesday, he leaves his rivals in his wake.

The Serb dismantled American Denis Kudla 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 with ruthless efficiency and just enough flamboyance to satisfy the Centre Court crowd.

That put him in the last 32 at the All England Club for the 11th straight year, a professional-era mark only surpassed by American Jimmy Connors -&nbsp;and one more than the game's most decorated player Federer.

Consistency has become the Serb's hallmark. While he may lack the shotmaking brilliance of Federer or the raw power and energy of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-nick-kyrgios-and-rafael-nadal-set-to-renew-salty-rivalry-232630">Nadal</a>, he rarely allows his level to slip below a supremely high watermark.

Which makes slip-ups against those plying their trade at the level of Kudla an exceptionally rare occurrence.

"Consistency was one of the keys and focus points of my Grand Slam career going back 10 years -&nbsp;I always aim to play my best in Grand Slams," he said after a one-hour-and-33-minute stroll that only occasionally flickered into life as a contest.

"I guess the quality of tennis that I produce in the slams is pretty high. That's what allows me to have the results like this," Djokovic said.

The world number one had only once lost to a player lower than the 111th-ranked Kudla in a Grand Slam -&nbsp;to Denis Istomin at the 2017 Australian Open - and there was never any chance of a repeat on Wednesday.

Things had threatened to turn ugly for Kudla when he lost the first five games, but he fought his corner to ensure the score stayed respectable and the match remained competitive.

The holder and four times champion allowed a few match points to go begging before finally wrapping up the victory to set up an encounter with Poland's 48th-ranked Hubert Hurkacz.

At this stage of the tournament, few would bet against Djokovic winning a 16th Grand Slam title next Sunday and the world number one certainly sounds confident.

"Ambitions are high and I've been fortunate in my career to do so well in Slams," he said.

"I have to think only about the next challenge and take things one step at a time," said Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic trails Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal in many of the game's most important metrics, but when it comes to consistently reaching the third round at Wimbledon, which he achieved with dazzling ease on Wednesday, he leaves his rivals in his wake.

Novak Djokovic trails Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal in many of the game's most important metrics, but when it comes to consistently reaching the third round at Wimbledon, which he achieved with dazzling ease on Wednesday, he leaves his rivals in his wake. The Serb dismantled American Denis Kudla 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 with ruthless efficiency and just enough flamboyance to satisfy the Centre Court crowd. That put him in the last 32 at the All England Club for the 11th straight year, a professional-era mark only surpassed by American Jimmy Connors - and one more than the game's most decorated player Federer. Consistency has become the Serb's hallmark. While he may lack the shotmaking brilliance of Federer or the raw power and energy of Nadal, he rarely allows his level to slip below a supremely high watermark. Which makes slip-ups against those plying their trade at the level of Kudla an exceptionally rare occurrence. "Consistency was one of the keys and focus points of my Grand Slam career going back 10 years - I always aim to play my best in Grand Slams," he said after a one-hour-and-33-minute stroll that only occasionally flickered into life as a contest. "I guess the quality of tennis that I produce in the slams is pretty high. That's what allows me to have the results like this," Djokovic said. The world number one had only once lost to a player lower than the 111th-ranked Kudla in a Grand Slam - to Denis Istomin at the 2017 Australian Open - and there was never any chance of a repeat on Wednesday. Things had threatened to turn ugly for Kudla when he lost the first five games, but he fought his corner to ensure the score stayed respectable and the match remained competitive. The holder and four times champion allowed a few match points to go begging before finally wrapping up the victory to set up an encounter with Poland's 48th-ranked Hubert Hurkacz. At this stage of the tournament, few would bet against Djokovic winning a 16th Grand Slam title next Sunday and the world number one certainly sounds confident. "Ambitions are high and I've been fortunate in my career to do so well in Slams," he said. "I have to think only about the next challenge and take things one step at a time," said Djokovic.

Wimbledon: Defending champion Novak Djokovic eases into third round

American 15-year-old Cori Gauff stole the show on the opening day of Wimbledon with a debut victory over five-time champion and her inspiration Venus Williams.

Gauff, the youngest woman ever to survive the qualifying tournament, played like a seasoned performer as she clinically beat the 39-year-old great 6-4, 6-4 to earn a standing ovation from an enchanted Court One crowd.

"I wouldn't say I didn't expect to win the match. I knew that I was going to go out there and play the way I play," Gauff, who claimed victory on her fourth match point, told reporters.

"I wasn't surprised that I won. I mean, I was just overwhelmed at the end," Gauff said.

Her victory put everything else in the shade on an opening day full of shocks in both draws.

World number two and second seed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/second-seed-naomi-osaka-crashes-out-in-first-round-of-wimbledon-232123">Naomi Osaka</a> lost 7-6(4), 6-2 to dangerous Kazakh Yulia Putintseva who had also got the better of her in their recent match in Birmingham - a defeat that effectively cost Osaka the number one ranking.

US&nbsp;Open and Australian Open champion Osaka appeared close to tears when she spoke to the media later.

"Can I leave? I feel like I'm about to cry," the Japanese 21-year-old said.

French Open runner-up Marketa Vondrousova, the 16th seed, also bowed out but former world number ones Karolina Pliskova, Caroline Wozniacki, Simona Halep and Victoria Azarenka all made it safely through to the second round.

DJOKOVIC UNTROUBLED

Men's defending champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-novak-djokovic-sweeps-through-under-keen-gaze-of-ivanisevic-232118">Novak Djokovic</a> was untroubled as he began his quest for a fifth Wimbledon crown that would take him level on the all-time list with Swedish great Bjorn Borg.

The Serb, with former champion Goran Ivanisevic in his box, beat Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5, 6-3.

It was a bad day for two of the young guns expected to lead the new generation into a brave new era, however.

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev lost 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 to Czech Jiri Vesely while Greek 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas went down in five sets to Italian journeyman Thomas Fabbiano.

Tsitsipas, in particular, was highly-fancied to have a long run at the All England Club having reached the Australian Open semi-final this year but lost 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, 6-7(8), 6-3.

"He was just better than me today. I think the way I played, it should have been in three, not five. I don't know how I got to five. I guess with my fighting spirit, somehow I managed to win those two sets," he said.

Croatia's 40-year-old Ivo Karlovic, one of 47 men aged 30 or over in the men's singles, became the oldest man to play a first-round match in the Wimbledon singles since Ken Rosewall in 1975.

The giant Croat served 20 aces as he beat Andrea Arnaboldi in straight sets and will meet Fabbiano next.

Last year's runner-up Kevin Anderson cruised through in straight sets against Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Eight-time champion Roger Federer and women's defending champion Angelique Kerber, as well as 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, start their campaigns on Tuesday.

American 15-year-old Cori Gauff stole the show on the opening day of Wimbledon with a debut victory over five-time champion and her inspiration Venus Williams. Gauff, the youngest woman ever to survive the qualifying tournament, played like a seasoned performer as she clinically beat the 39-year-old great 6-4, 6-4 to earn a standing ovation from an enchanted Court One crowd.

American 15-year-old Cori Gauff stole the show on the opening day of Wimbledon with a debut victory over five-time champion and her inspiration Venus Williams. Gauff, the youngest woman ever to survive the qualifying tournament, played like a seasoned performer as she clinically beat the 39-year-old great 6-4, 6-4 to earn a standing ovation from an enchanted Court One crowd. "I wouldn't say I didn't expect to win the match. I knew that I was going to go out there and play the way I play," Gauff, who claimed victory on her fourth match point, told reporters. "I wasn't surprised that I won. I mean, I was just overwhelmed at the end," Gauff said. Her victory put everything else in the shade on an opening day full of shocks in both draws. World number two and second seed Naomi Osaka lost 7-6(4), 6-2 to dangerous Kazakh Yulia Putintseva who had also got the better of her in their recent match in Birmingham - a defeat that effectively cost Osaka the number one ranking. US Open and Australian Open champion Osaka appeared close to tears when she spoke to the media later. "Can I leave? I feel like I'm about to cry," the Japanese 21-year-old said. French Open runner-up Marketa Vondrousova, the 16th seed, also bowed out but former world number ones Karolina Pliskova, Caroline Wozniacki, Simona Halep and Victoria Azarenka all made it safely through to the second round. DJOKOVIC UNTROUBLED Men's defending champion Novak Djokovic was untroubled as he began his quest for a fifth Wimbledon crown that would take him level on the all-time list with Swedish great Bjorn Borg. The Serb, with former champion Goran Ivanisevic in his box, beat Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5, 6-3. It was a bad day for two of the young guns expected to lead the new generation into a brave new era, however. Sixth seed Alexander Zverev lost 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 to Czech Jiri Vesely while Greek 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas went down in five sets to Italian journeyman Thomas Fabbiano. Tsitsipas, in particular, was highly-fancied to have a long run at the All England Club having reached the Australian Open semi-final this year but lost 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, 6-7(8), 6-3. "He was just better than me today. I think the way I played, it should have been in three, not five. I don't know how I got to five. I guess with my fighting spirit, somehow I managed to win those two sets," he said. Croatia's 40-year-old Ivo Karlovic, one of 47 men aged 30 or over in the men's singles, became the oldest man to play a first-round match in the Wimbledon singles since Ken Rosewall in 1975. The giant Croat served 20 aces as he beat Andrea Arnaboldi in straight sets and will meet Fabbiano next. Last year's runner-up Kevin Anderson cruised through in straight sets against Pierre-Hugues Herbert. Eight-time champion Roger Federer and women's defending champion Angelique Kerber, as well as 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, start their campaigns on Tuesday.

Wimbledon: 15-year-old Cori Gauff stuns idol Venus Williams to steal day one limelight

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday.

After a few early wobbles Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 7-5, 6-3 as, perhaps already buoyed by the presence of new coach Goran Ivanisevic, he really hit the mark with his serves.

"He's someone I've always looked up to and we've been friends for a long time - though usually on the opposite side of the net," Djokovic said of the 2001 champion who has come on board as part of his coaching team.

"He's coached lots of great players, so it's great to have him on my side. He's going to stay for sure through the first week then we'll see. It's a great pleasure to have such a champion and hopefully, we can have a long collaboration."

Djokovic, 32, came into the tournament having decided not to play a grass-court warm-up event and he must have been a little edgy having lost to Kohlschreiber in straight sets on the hard courts of Indian Wells earlier this year.

For a man not so well known outside tennis circles, 35-year-old Kohlschreiber has a long, if not particularly distinguished, career.

This Wimbledon was his 60th grand slam event - putting him joint-ninth in the open-era on the appearances list. It was also his 15th successive Wimbledon, but Monday's two-hour show marked the ninth time he had failed to get past the first round.

The champion made an inauspicious start, double-faulting his first serve en route to being broken, but quickly found his feet to reel off the next four games and win the first set 6-3.

Kohlschreiber found his length with more consistency in the second and the two traded heavy blows in crowd-pleasing rallies not often seen these days on the grass.

At 4-4 the German saved three break points - the last courtesy of a successful challenge - only to drop his next service game as Djokovic served out for 7-5 and a two-set lead.

The early stages of the third set were also entertainingly well-fought, with both men nailing the baseline with huge power until Djokovic really found his serving rhythm to take command and wrap up the match by taking it 6-3.

"It felt great, it's the sacred court, the cradle of our sport and it has a special place in my heart and my career," Djokovic said.

"Opening round matches are always tricky, he has a lot of experience and beat me this year. I know he can play good quality tennis, he takes the ball early, so it was a great test for me and all three sets were pretty close."

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday.

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday. After a few early wobbles Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 7-5, 6-3 as, perhaps already buoyed by the presence of new coach Goran Ivanisevic, he really hit the mark with his serves. "He's someone I've always looked up to and we've been friends for a long time - though usually on the opposite side of the net," Djokovic said of the 2001 champion who has come on board as part of his coaching team. "He's coached lots of great players, so it's great to have him on my side. He's going to stay for sure through the first week then we'll see. It's a great pleasure to have such a champion and hopefully, we can have a long collaboration." Djokovic, 32, came into the tournament having decided not to play a grass-court warm-up event and he must have been a little edgy having lost to Kohlschreiber in straight sets on the hard courts of Indian Wells earlier this year. For a man not so well known outside tennis circles, 35-year-old Kohlschreiber has a long, if not particularly distinguished, career. This Wimbledon was his 60th grand slam event - putting him joint-ninth in the open-era on the appearances list. It was also his 15th successive Wimbledon, but Monday's two-hour show marked the ninth time he had failed to get past the first round. The champion made an inauspicious start, double-faulting his first serve en route to being broken, but quickly found his feet to reel off the next four games and win the first set 6-3. Kohlschreiber found his length with more consistency in the second and the two traded heavy blows in crowd-pleasing rallies not often seen these days on the grass. At 4-4 the German saved three break points - the last courtesy of a successful challenge - only to drop his next service game as Djokovic served out for 7-5 and a two-set lead. The early stages of the third set were also entertainingly well-fought, with both men nailing the baseline with huge power until Djokovic really found his serving rhythm to take command and wrap up the match by taking it 6-3. "It felt great, it's the sacred court, the cradle of our sport and it has a special place in my heart and my career," Djokovic said. "Opening round matches are always tricky, he has a lot of experience and beat me this year. I know he can play good quality tennis, he takes the ball early, so it was a great test for me and all three sets were pretty close."

Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic sweeps through under keen gaze of Ivanisevic

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business.

Outside of eight-time champion Roger Federer, twice winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, Wawrinka is the only other multiple Grand Slam champion in the draw.

With the weapons at his disposal, a beefy serve and a sublime backhand and a big match mentality, Wawrinka should at least part of the conversation when it comes to discussing contenders to make a deep run this fortnight.

The 34-year-old needs a Wimbledon title to complete his career Grand Slam and while, for whatever reason, he has never thrived on the All England Club lawns, he looked razor sharp as he began his 15th successive appearance.

On a sunny Court Two against Belgian qualifier Ruben Bemelmans he belted 26 winners in a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory that took less than an hour and a half.

Admittedly left-hander Bemelmans, ranked 171, was having a decidedly ordinary day with his forehand misfiring completely but it was a powerful statement by Wawrinka nonetheless.

A year ago Wawrinka arrived at Wimbledon ranked outside the top 200 having had knee surgery after the 2017 Championships.

On that occasion he beat Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round but then lost to qualifier Tomas Fabbiano.

Surprisingly for a player of his class Wawrinka has only reached two quarter-finals at Wimbledon, in 2014 when he lost to Roger Federer and in 2015 when beaten by Richard Gasquet.

It is his worst Grand Slam, with his win over Bemelmans improving his career record there to 20-14, compared to 42-14 at Roland Garros, 40-12 at the US&nbsp;Open and 38-13 in Australia.

He has not been into the third round since 2015 and to end that sequence he will have a stern test next against giant American Reilly Opelka.

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business.

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business. Outside of eight-time champion Roger Federer, twice winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, Wawrinka is the only other multiple Grand Slam champion in the draw. With the weapons at his disposal, a beefy serve and a sublime backhand and a big match mentality, Wawrinka should at least part of the conversation when it comes to discussing contenders to make a deep run this fortnight. The 34-year-old needs a Wimbledon title to complete his career Grand Slam and while, for whatever reason, he has never thrived on the All England Club lawns, he looked razor sharp as he began his 15th successive appearance. On a sunny Court Two against Belgian qualifier Ruben Bemelmans he belted 26 winners in a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory that took less than an hour and a half. Admittedly left-hander Bemelmans, ranked 171, was having a decidedly ordinary day with his forehand misfiring completely but it was a powerful statement by Wawrinka nonetheless. A year ago Wawrinka arrived at Wimbledon ranked outside the top 200 having had knee surgery after the 2017 Championships. On that occasion he beat Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round but then lost to qualifier Tomas Fabbiano. Surprisingly for a player of his class Wawrinka has only reached two quarter-finals at Wimbledon, in 2014 when he lost to Roger Federer and in 2015 when beaten by Richard Gasquet. It is his worst Grand Slam, with his win over Bemelmans improving his career record there to 20-14, compared to 42-14 at Roland Garros, 40-12 at the US Open and 38-13 in Australia. He has not been into the third round since 2015 and to end that sequence he will have a stern test next against giant American Reilly Opelka.

Wimbledon: Stan Wawrinka means business as he opens with easy victory

Lack of grass courts in Serbia will not be detrimental to Novak Djokovic's bid to defend his Wimbledon title, the world number one said in the early stages of his training for the July 1-14 tournament at the All England Club.

"Find me a grass court in Belgrade and I will practice there," Djokovic joked when asked last week by reporters why he chose a hardcourt complex in the Serbian capital's centre to start his preparations.

"We don't have any in Serbia, do we? I am really hopeful that we will build some grass courts soon enough, but these hard courts will do for the time being.

"The reason I am training here at the moment is because it's the most similar surface to grass in terms of ball speed and player movement," he said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-kyrgios-good-guy-even-if-he-has-no-respect-for-me-228880&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyiM6zvIbjAhXLMY8KHT8lDyAQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1UdgOV7XULNLDtBqrG38A3">Djokovic</a>, who is aiming for a fifth Wimbledon title and his 16th Grand Slam crown, plans to play only one or two exhibition matches in the build-up to the grasscourt major.

Asked why he changed the routine and skipped this year's Queen's tournament in London, Djokovic pointed out that whereas he needed as much action as he could get ahead of last year's tournament, he opted for a different approach in 2019.

"The situation is a bit different this time because I played very few matches prior to last year’s Wimbledon due to my injury and the elbow surgery," he said.

"I plummeted down to 22nd on the ATP Tour but the extensive layoff gave me enough time to prepare for Wimbledon by entering the Queen's tournament as a warm-up. This year, the exertions of a lengthy claycourt season prompted me to skip Queen's and go straight to Wimbledon," Djokovic said.

Djokovic was exchanging stinging baseline shots with compatriot Viktor Troicki, a close friend and also a member of Serbia's 2010 Davis Cup-winning team, in hot and humid conditions which he said would play into his hands.

"I can't really complain because I chose to come to Belgrade this time to see my family en route from the French Open to London," he said.

"The weather could actually be a blessing in disguise because it will probably be much cooler in London so training in this searing heat might increase my fitness levels. That aside, the grass is the rarest surface we play on and it requires a very specific routine and style of play. It requires a different approach and adaption time," Djokovic said.

Having missed a chance to win four grand slam tournaments in row for the second time in his career when he lost to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-thiem-leads-djokovic-in-trouble-as-rain-stops-play-at-semi-final-225374&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyiM6zvIbjAhXLMY8KHT8lDyAQFjAHegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3BH511Zma_-eH5dygAd61M">Dominic Thiem</a> in last month's French Open semi-finals, Djokovic said he was heading to Wimbledon almost devoid of pressure.

"I put a lot of pressure on myself before the French Open to make it four grand slams in a row again but having failed this time, I am going to Wimbledon with less weight on my shoulders as it's the start of a new cycle," he said.

"I always have the highest ambitions and this year is no different. I am top of the rankings and defending my Wimbledon title, hence I am hoping to go all the way again.

"However, reality can be very different. Apart from the usual suspects, there is a bunch of other players who are strong contenders at Wimbledon.

"Federer and Nadal are always among the top candidates of course and the three of us should be the favourites to win the title. It will be a tough tournament and I will have to take it one step at a time, match by match," added Djokovic.

Lack of grass courts in Serbia will not be detrimental to Novak Djokovic's bid to defend his Wimbledon title, the world number one said in the early stages of his training for the July 1-14 tournament at the All England Club.

Lack of grass courts in Serbia will not be detrimental to Novak Djokovic's bid to defend his Wimbledon title, the world number one said in the early stages of his training for the July 1-14 tournament at the All England Club. "Find me a grass court in Belgrade and I will practice there," Djokovic joked when asked last week by reporters why he chose a hardcourt complex in the Serbian capital's centre to start his preparations. "We don't have any in Serbia, do we? I am really hopeful that we will build some grass courts soon enough, but these hard courts will do for the time being. "The reason I am training here at the moment is because it's the most similar surface to grass in terms of ball speed and player movement," he said. Djokovic, who is aiming for a fifth Wimbledon title and his 16th Grand Slam crown, plans to play only one or two exhibition matches in the build-up to the grasscourt major. Asked why he changed the routine and skipped this year's Queen's tournament in London, Djokovic pointed out that whereas he needed as much action as he could get ahead of last year's tournament, he opted for a different approach in 2019. "The situation is a bit different this time because I played very few matches prior to last year’s Wimbledon due to my injury and the elbow surgery," he said. "I plummeted down to 22nd on the ATP Tour but the extensive layoff gave me enough time to prepare for Wimbledon by entering the Queen's tournament as a warm-up. This year, the exertions of a lengthy claycourt season prompted me to skip Queen's and go straight to Wimbledon," Djokovic said. Djokovic was exchanging stinging baseline shots with compatriot Viktor Troicki, a close friend and also a member of Serbia's 2010 Davis Cup-winning team, in hot and humid conditions which he said would play into his hands. "I can't really complain because I chose to come to Belgrade this time to see my family en route from the French Open to London," he said. "The weather could actually be a blessing in disguise because it will probably be much cooler in London so training in this searing heat might increase my fitness levels. That aside, the grass is the rarest surface we play on and it requires a very specific routine and style of play. It requires a different approach and adaption time," Djokovic said. Having missed a chance to win four grand slam tournaments in row for the second time in his career when he lost to Dominic Thiem in last month's French Open semi-finals, Djokovic said he was heading to Wimbledon almost devoid of pressure. "I put a lot of pressure on myself before the French Open to make it four grand slams in a row again but having failed this time, I am going to Wimbledon with less weight on my shoulders as it's the start of a new cycle," he said. "I always have the highest ambitions and this year is no different. I am top of the rankings and defending my Wimbledon title, hence I am hoping to go all the way again. "However, reality can be very different. Apart from the usual suspects, there is a bunch of other players who are strong contenders at Wimbledon. "Federer and Nadal are always among the top candidates of course and the three of us should be the favourites to win the title. It will be a tough tournament and I will have to take it one step at a time, match by match," added Djokovic.

No grass courts? No problem, says Novak Djokovic as he starts Wimbledon preparation

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