Novak Djokovic admitted he was on the receiving end of a “good old blow-out” at the hands of champion Jannik Sinner in their Wimbledon semi-final, but the 39-year-old still hopes to return one more time at age 40.
Sinner dominates Djokovic in straight sets
World No.1 Sinner showcased his superiority as he dismantled Djokovic’s latest bid for a record 25th grand slam title, securing a 6-4 6-4 6-4 victory on Centre Court on Friday evening. The win was so comprehensive that it raised questions about whether this might be Djokovic’s last appearance on the court where he has won seven titles.
Asked afterward if he would be back next year, Djokovic said: “I would like to, at least one more time. Let’s see.”
Djokovic unable to challenge Sinner
Unlike their remarkable Australian Open semi-final, which Djokovic won in his first triumph over the Italian in their last six meetings, this time he could not lay a glove on Sinner. Djokovic earned just one break point, which he failed to convert, while Sinner cracked 40 winners and 16 aces to ease to victory in two hours 20 minutes.
“I was just half a step late basically in any shot, it’s very simple as that. He was just a level or more better than I was. I was just not sharp enough, not reactive enough, not balanced enough to play him. That’s it. There’s not much I could do on the court,” sighed Djokovic.
Sinner sets up final with Zverev
Sinner, who looked in pristine form, will face No.2 seed Alexander Zverev in the final. Zverev, the newly minted French Open champion, was equally ruthless as he ended the wildcard fairytale of British world No.114 Arthur Fery, winning 7-6 (7-0) 6-2 6-4 to reach his first Wimbledon final.
Top seed Sinner raised his level round by round after a tricky five-set start to his title defence against Miomir Kecmanovic, and he was on song from the start against Djokovic.
Djokovic's fatigue and reflection
Djokovic had spent 16-and-a-half hours on court to reach his 15th Wimbledon semi-final, including the longest match of the tournament against Felix Auger-Aliassime on Tuesday, which appeared to have taken a toll.
“Last year for the semi-final, I’d got injured in the quarters so didn’t expect much. But here I was feeling physically fine, but he was the much better player, a dominant force and you just have to hand it to him,” said Djokovic.
When a reporter suggested he hadn’t been competitive last year, Djokovic snapped: “I don’t agree. I’m always competitive. Of course, I’m disappointed and wanted to win, and that’s why I’m still pushing myself so hard, but I just lost to a better player. I’m not upset with myself, I haven’t done too much wrong.”
He added: “Last year I reached four semi-finals. This year, out of three slams, I reached one final and one semi-final. I guess for 99 per cent of the players, that would be a very good grand slam result. But for me it’s good, but not good enough, because I’m blessed and cursed to be used to something of the highest degree in terms of results and achievements.”
Sinner praises Djokovic
Sinner, who broke Djokovic’s serve three times — once in each set — paid tribute to his opponent. “Playing against Novak,” Sinner said, “what he’s still showing is true inspiration.”
Djokovic had the final word: “No-one is forcing me to play — I’m doing it because I want to. Let’s see what the future brings.”
