Djokovic fights off Rinderknech to claim more history

Djokovic Matches Federer’s Wimbledon Record with Gritty Win Over Rinderknech

Novak Djokovic entered the history books once again at SW19, overcoming a fierce challenge from Arthur Rinderknech to equal Roger Federer’s historic men’s singles match wins record at Wimbledon.

A Historic Milestone at Centre Court

The seven-time Wimbledon champion faced a much tougher test than his previous straight-sets masterclass against Stefanos Tsitsipas. Returning to Centre Court, the 39-year-old Serbian superstar had to dig deep against a resilient Arthur Rinderknech. Despite a dramatic third-set slip, Djokovic ultimately prevailed with a 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (7-4) victory.

With this triumph, Djokovic secures his 105th singles match win at Wimbledon, pulling level with eight-time champion Roger Federer. The only player in tennis history with more singles victories at the All England Club is the legendary Martina Navratilova, who holds 120 wins.

Additionally, this victory marks Djokovic’s 18th appearance in the Wimbledon fourth round, matching another coveted Federer record.

“I propose a match between me and Roger for 106! Whoever wins it, gets it,” Djokovic joked during his post-match interview when told about the milestone. “To be able to make history on this court is a huge honour and privilege. This was always a childhood dream of mine. I’m just really trying to win the match on a given day.”

Djokovic, who holds an all-time men’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles, will now face Russian qualifier Roman Safiullin in the round of 16. Safiullin earned his spot by pulling off a stunning 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 victory over Joao Fonseca.

How the Drama Unfolded: From Total Control to a Diving Finish

Early on, everything seemed to be going according to script for the world number two. Djokovic showcased his signature precision and shot-making artistry, taking the opening set 7-5 after trading early breaks. At one point, after executing a spectacular full-stretch volley, he delighted the crowd by taking a bow.

When Djokovic broke early in the second set to take it 6-4, the match appeared effectively over. However, Rinderknech—who famously knocked out Alexander Zverev at Wimbledon last year—refused to back down. The French 25th seed launched an aggressive baseline assault, breaking Djokovic twice in a dominant third-set display (6-1) to turn the match on its head.

The fourth set turned into an absolute thriller as the Centre Court crowd rallied behind both competitors. With neither player giving an inch, the set pushed into a decisive tie-break. The pressure finally told at 5-4 in the tie-break when Rinderknech dragged a forehand wide.

In a breathtaking final rally, Rinderknech threw himself at a drop shot, only for Djokovic to respond with a dramatic winning dive volley. Both players ended up flat on the grass as the stadium erupted in a standing ovation.

Sinner Powers Into Fourth Round Despite Unforced Errors

On Court One, defending champion Jannik Sinner booked his spot in the fourth round with a 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory over American Jenson Brooksby. While the scoreline suggests a routine win, the Italian star had to work hard for his victory, battling through 27 unforced errors.

Sinner relies heavily on his powerhouse serve, winning an impressive 87% of his first-serve points and firing 13 aces. The only minor hiccups came when he dropped his opening service game in the third set and failed to serve out the match at 5-3, though he quickly recovered.

With this win, Sinner extends his flawless Grand Slam third-round record to 20-0—an unprecedented feat in the men’s Open era. He will next square off against Japanese qualifier Shintaro Mochizuki, who advanced after stunning Spain’s rising star Rafael Jodar.