Novak Djokovic
, a seven-time
Wimbledon
champion, showcased his exceptional skills on the court, defeating Italy's
Lorenzo Musetti
, the 25th seed, in straight sets. The Serbian maestro secured a 6-4, 7-6(2), 6-4 victory, earning him a spot in his 10th Wimbledon final.
In the championship match, Djokovic will face the defending champion,
Carlos Alcaraz
, setting the stage for an exciting rematch of their 2023 encounter.
This marks the first time since 2014-15, when Djokovic and his longtime rival Roger Federer competed in consecutive finals, that the same two players will battle in the title match in back-to-back years.
"I've said it many times, Wimbledon has been a childhood dream for me to play and to win... I was a seven-year-old boy watching bombs fly over my head and dreaming of being on the most important court in the world," Djokovic told the Centre Court crowd, as reported by Reuters.
"I was constructing Wimbledon trophies out of any material in the room. It has been an incredible journey. I try not to take it for granted every time I find myself on this unique court.
"Obviously, during the match, it's business time and... I try outplay my opponent. I'm satisfied and pleased, but I don't want to stop here. Hopefully I get my hands on the trophy."
Djokovic, the second seed, secured a break in the sixth game of the first set, following an intense 27-shot rally.
This was shortly after Alcaraz's hard-fought 6-7(1), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 triumph over fifth seed Daniil Medvedev, while spectators were still arriving at the Centre Court.
Despite having expressed frustration with the crowd after his fourth-round victory against Holger Rune on Monday, the 37-year-old Djokovic encouraged more support from the audience, even though his actions elicited some boos.
The fans rallied behind Musetti, who responded by breaking back to make it 4-5 with a powerful forehand. However, the 22-year-old Italian's shaky service game ultimately cost him the set.
In the second set, Musetti quickly regained his composure and made progress, executing a stunning backhand pass to take a 3-1 lead. Djokovic, however, remained unfazed as he fought his way back into the set. The Serbian elevated his performance significantly towards the end, securing the tiebreak and further solidifying his position in the match.
Djokovic showcased his versatility by employing serve-and-volley tactics, putting Musetti under immense pressure. Despite a late resurgence from the Italian, who managed to earn a break point, Djokovic held his nerve and clinched the match on his fourth match point when Musetti's shot sailed long.
After securing the victory, he performed his signature celebration, pretending to play the violin with his racquet. This was for his daughter, who was watching from the stands and is currently learning to play the violin herself. However, his actions were met with increased jeers from the spectator.
Djokovic remains undeterred by the crowd's reaction, as his focus lies on securing a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title, a remarkable feat considering he underwent knee surgery just five weeks prior to the tournament.
"I came to London eight days before the tournament started. I didn't know (if I would play). I was keeping everything open until the day of the draw," Djokovic said.
"I played a couple of practice sets with top players and that proved to me I was in good enough state to not just be in Wimbledon, but to go deep into the tournament. That kind of mentality is there and is ever present. Thanks to the team members for helping me."
The win puts 24-times Grand Slam champion moved one step closer to his sixth consecutive Wimbledon final and his first of an inconsistent season.
English (US) ·