Djokovic Battles Back Against De Minaur, Secures Wimbledon Quarterfinal Berth

London: Novak Djokovic demonstrated the importance of perseverance at Wimbledon's Centre Court, overcoming a difficult start to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

Initially struggling, the 38-year-old Djokovic lost the first set in just 30 minutes, managing to win only 14 points. Despite appearing uncomfortable and clutching his stomach during changeovers, he rallied to defeat the 11th-seeded Australian, Alex de Minaur.

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)

The Serbian player mounted an impressive comeback, particularly dominating the fourth set by winning five consecutive games. He ultimately secured a 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory in three hours and 18 minutes, marking his 16th quarterfinal appearance at Wimbledon.

The day began with wet and windy conditions, creating a challenging environment for the players. The Centre Court was filled, and the roof was open. Roger Federer, the eight-time champion, was also present.

Last year, De Minaur had to withdraw from his Wimbledon quarterfinal match due to a hip injury, granting Djokovic a walkover into the semifinals. This time, De Minaur played with determination, initially impressing the crowd. However, as Djokovic increased the intensity of his forehand, forcing De Minaur out of his comfort zone, the Australian player struggled to respond.

The second set saw a series of breaks in the first three games. De Minaur won the second game after nine deuces and six break-points. However, Djokovic regained control, holding at love in the fourth game to take a 3-1 lead. In the third set, Djokovic capitalized on a slip-up by De Minaur in the ninth game to take a two sets-to-one lead.

Despite De Minaur surging ahead with a 4-1 lead in the fourth set, putting pressure on Djokovic by making him cover the entire court, Djokovic had other plans. He broke back in the seventh game and leveled the score at 4-4 before sealing the victory.

Djokovic downplayed concerns about any stomach issues, explaining that he simply needed a breather after long rallies. He humorously acknowledged Federer's presence, saying, "Sometimes I wish I had a serve and volley and nice touch (like) the gentleman that’s standing there. That would help. It’s probably the first time he has watched me and I’ve won the match. The last couple I lost, it’s good to break the curse.”

In another fourth-round match, the 22nd seed Italian Flavio Cobolli defeated Marin Cilic 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (4), 7-6 (3) to reach his first quarterfinal at Wimbledon. The 23-year-old Italian will face Djokovic in the next round, marking their second career meeting.

Swiss player Belinda Bencic also advanced to her first Wimbledon quarterfinal, defeating Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-6 (4), 6-4.