Novak Djokovic has sent a ‘statement to the rest of the draw’
Many believe the seven-time Wimbledon winner is a distance third behind two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and reigning world No 1 Jannik Sinner when it comes to favourites for this year’s crown.
Djokovic will likely have to beat both if he is to win this year’s tournament, as he is projected to meet Sinner in the semi-final and Alcaraz in the final.
Although the 24-time Grand Slam winner has won his two most recent encounters against the Spaniard, he was on the losing end when Alcaraz won the titles in 2023 and 2024, while he has lost his last four matches against Sinner with his last win coming in December 2023.
But the tennis great has given fans a glimpse of his best form on grass during the first week at the All England Club and he was particularly impressive during his three-set win over Miomir Kecmanovic as he dropped only seven games.
Former British No 1 Henman feels the Serbian has raised his game and that should be a concern for his Wimbledon rivals.
“It was all aspects of his game,” he said on BBC One. “He was hitting his spots, dictating from the back of the court and he was able to hit so aggressively without making unforced errors.
“He had one slight wobble at the end, serving for the match at 5-2 and lost it, but he still finished it off in three straight sets and I think he will be delighted with his progress to the fourth round.
“Djokovic’s level was just absolutely phenomenal and that is when you realise that on grass he is one of the favourites.
“At the age of 38, on the hard courts and clay courts it is getting harder and harder between Sinner, Alcaraz and the rest.
“But the seven-time champion, when he puts in performances like Saturday, then I think it is a statement to the rest of the draw.”
Novak Djokovic News
The most 6-0 sets won at Grand Slam tournaments: Novak Djokovic sets new record
Novak Djokovic v Rafael Nadal v Roger Federer Compared: Match wins at the four Grand Slams
Djokovic will face 11th seed Alex de Minaur for a place in the quarter-final with the winner set to face either Marin Cilic of Flavio Cobolli with a potential showdown with Sinner awaiting.
“Alex has also improved his game tremendously in the last couple years. He’s playing the tennis of his life. He’s definitely knocking on the door of the final stages of Grand Slams,” Djokovic said of the Australian.
“He’s gotten to the quarters several times. Yeah, last year had to pull out unfortunately because of his injury. This year again he’s there. He hasn’t dropped a set. He’s playing well.
“You’re not super excited to play Alex de Minaur on grass, that’s for sure, because he’s so quick and he’s complete player, all around. He has gained pace on his serve, as well. He hits his spots very well.
“Just a tough, very tough challenge expecting me. I’m looking forward to it. I think it’s going to be a great test to see where my game is at against a top player like Alex.”
