Djokovic’s
Record in Sight: Djokovic Sets Sights on Eighth Wimbledon Title to Make History
Djokovic secures a spot in the Wimbledon semi-finals by defeating Janik Sinner: Aiming for his 35th Grand Final. Despite already holding 23 major titles, the Serbian tennis star finds inspiration to further enrich his trophy collection, as he prepares to face world number one Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling clash that determines the top spot in the ATP rankings on Monday.
“Chasing greatness has always been my utmost priority: winning titles is what drives me,” Djokovic expressed during the post-match press conference. “Regardless of the place in history books, that hasn’t changed. Some may think that winning Roland Garros with 23 Slams would be a huge relief as the only male player to achieve that. Yes.”
Djokovic hopes to match Roger Federer’s record of eight Wimbledon titles with 34 victories at the All-England Club. Additionally, by clinching five consecutive men’s singles titles on the grass court, he joins the elite league of Swiss maestro Bjorn Borg.
Considering his previous tournament experience, Djokovic still feels the strain of a big match.
“I still get goosebumps and feel the nerves in every match.
I’ll therefore approach the final as if it were my first one when I enter it on Sunday.
I don’t want to arrive at the finish line any more relaxed than I did previously.
meaning the intention should remain clear. The goal and mindset will be as serious and professional as they have always been.”
The 36-year-old player’s top aim this season is to compete at his peak level in the four main competitions.
Djokovic has captured six out of the past eight Wimbledon titles (the event was not held in 2020). This year, the Belgrade native claimed victory at the Australian Open and triumphed at Roland Garros last month. Could Djokovic lift the silver gilt cup and achieve a Grand Slam?
“There’s no secret that Grand Slams are my pinnacle, my highest priority,” Djokovic affirmed.
They come first on my list. I aim to start each season in a position where I can win one of these four competitions.
I try to organize my schedule, training program, and preparation weeks around these priorities. In recent years, my Grand Slam seasons have been phenomenal, and the results speak for themselves.”
“I have a good team around me.
We consistently carry out the proper procedures.
I think that when we reach the later stages of the Grand Slams, it pays off for us. Most players might be physically and mentally a bit tired, or they might not feel like they can go one step further. I think it makes a difference when even my opponents are aware of that record. It has a mental impact.”
In Sunday’s match, Djokovic will meet 16-year-younger Alcaraz in the Winner-Takes-All Championship, featuring the world number one. By winning his latest quarter-final against Hubert Hurkacz, Djokovic leveled the head-to-head record with his Lexus ATP Head2Head series at 1-1. Alcaraz recently claimed the Queen’s title, securing Djokovic’s return to the world number one spot. Sunday marks the first-ever final clash between Djokovic and Alcaraz.
“This is perhaps the most anticipated final of the tournament for most people. Alcaraz and I, ” Djokovic stated. “It will be his first Wimbledon final. We are both in a good position. We are both playing well.”
“Yes, when it comes to playing in Grand Slam or Wimbledon finals, I do have more experience than him,” Djokovic acknowledged. “Still, he is in a great situation. He’s very inspired. He’s hungry. I’m hungry too, so let’s see who invites whom!”
Did you know about Djokovic?
Djokovic becomes the third player in the Open Era (since 1968) to reach the Wimbledon Men’s Singles final at the age of 36 or above, following in the footsteps of his great rivals, Federer and Ken Rosewall. By reaching his 35th championship match in a Grand Slam event, Djokovic claims sole ownership of the record for most finals, surpassing former WTA star Chris Evert (34)
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