Novak Djokovic survived a stern test from Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech, winning 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4) in a pulsating third-round match at Wimbledon. The seventh seed, chasing a record 25th grand slam title, needed all his experience to overcome a spirited opponent who won more points (117 to 108) and hit more aces (21 to 15) and winners (67 to 40).
Djokovic's relief after draining contest
Djokovic admitted to feeling desperate relief after the match. "Well, I saw him slip and fall down, so I was thinking: 'Please, just stay down' for that last shot. I am just really relieved to come through," he said. The 39-year-old Serb acknowledged the quality of his opponent, who had beaten Alexander Zverev on Centre Court last year. "He is very tall, he hits incredible serves and he deserves a round of applause for his performance, no doubt."
Match swings and drama
Djokovic appeared in control after taking the first two sets, but Rinderknech stormed back in the third, breaking early and racing to a 5-0 lead. Djokovic avoided his first-ever bagel on grass but lost the set 6-1. The fourth set was a high-quality affair with no breaks, leading to a tie-break. At 4-4 in the tie-break, Rinderknech's nerve faltered, hitting a forehand wide. Djokovic sealed the match with a spectacular diving backhand lob volley at match point, drawing a standing ovation from the 15,000 spectators.
Equalling Federer's record
With this victory, Djokovic equalled Roger Federer's record of 105 men's singles wins at Wimbledon, behind only Martina Navratilova's 120. "To be able to make history of this sport is a huge honour and privilege, and particularly here," Djokovic said. He added: "I am not interested in 105 or 106, I am just trying to win that match on a given day. I was quite stressed out. I had more tension than usual. But sometimes you just have to find a way to win."
Djokovic will face big-serving Russian Roman Safiullin in the fourth round on Sunday, as his quest for a 25th grand slam title continues.
