Djokovic Stages Stunning Comeback at Wimbledon, Clinches Record 63rd Grand Slam Quarterfinal

Tuesday - 08/07/2025 03:15

Novak Djokovic overcame a shaky start and apparent discomfort to defeat Alex de Minaur in four sets, securing his 16th Wimbledon quarterfinal appearance. After losing the first set decisively, Djokovic rallied, displaying resilience and strategic adjustments to dominate the later sets. Meanwhile, Flavio Cobolli advanced to his first Wimbledon quarterfinal, setting up a match against his idol, Djokovic.

Djokovic Mounts Remarkable Comeback, Secures 63rd Grand Slam Quarterfinal Berth at Wimbledon

London: Novak Djokovic, defying a shaky start, orchestrated a stunning turnaround to defeat Alex de Minaur and advance to his 16th Wimbledon quarterfinal and 63rd Grand Slam quarterfinal overall.

Djokovic celebrates his victory over De Minaur at Wimbledon 2025

Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates after beating Australia's Alex de Minaur during a fourth round men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Monday, July 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

After dropping the first set in a mere 30 minutes, the resilient Djokovic clawed his way back, ultimately dominating the match to secure a 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory in three hours and 18 minutes. The Centre Court crowd witnessed a masterclass in perseverance as the Serbian overcame early struggles to assert his dominance.

The day at SW19 began with challenging weather conditions. Despite a packed Centre Court and the presence of eight-time champion Roger Federer, De Minaur initially seized the advantage.

Last year, De Minaur's withdrawal due to a hip injury paved the way for Djokovic's semifinal appearance. This time, the 11th seed came out strong. However, Djokovic's strategic use of his forehand, pushing the ball beyond De Minaur's comfort zone, proved to be a game-changer.

The second set saw a flurry of breaks in the opening games. While De Minaur fought hard, Djokovic managed to regain control, holding at love to establish a 3-1 lead. Cheered on by his fiance, Katie Boulter, De Minaur faltered in the third set, allowing Djokovic to take a crucial two-sets-to-one lead.

In the fourth set, De Minaur surged ahead to a 4-1 lead. However, Djokovic had other plans. He broke back in the seventh game, leveling the score at 4-4 and ultimately sealing the victory.

Dismissing concerns about stomach issues, Djokovic humorously acknowledged Federer's presence, joking about breaking the "curse" of losing when the Swiss legend is in attendance.

In another fourth-round match, Italian Flavio Cobolli defeated Marin Cilic to reach his first Wimbledon quarterfinal. Cobolli will now face his idol, Djokovic, in a rematch of their encounter in Shanghai.

Belinda Bencic also secured her first Wimbledon quarterfinal berth, defeating Ekaterina Alexandrova.