Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner are set to face off in a blockbuster Wimbledon semifinal, with both players expressing their thoughts and feelings about the upcoming match. The match is scheduled for Friday and is a rematch of their 2023 semifinal where Djokovic won in straight sets.
Djokovic’s Perspective: Ready for a Physical Battle
Novak Djokovic, aiming for his 25th Grand Slam title and eighth Wimbledon title to equal Roger Federer’s record, acknowledges the challenge Sinner presents. He recognizes Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz as the “dominant force right now in tennis” and understands that he needs to beat the world number one to advance further in the tournament.
Djokovic is preparing for a tough, potentially five-set match against Sinner. “I just try to focus on my recovery right now, getting my body in shape for a very physical battle, so I can fight with him for as long as it’s necessary,” he stated. He is also hoping that he will be able to play at his best and free of pain”.
Injury Concerns for Djokovic
Djokovic had a fall during his quarterfinal win against Flavio Cobolli, causing some concern. “It was a nasty fall. It was very awkward. That happens on the grass,” Djokovic said. He is hopeful that the impact of the fall will not be too severe and that he will be able to recover in time for the semifinal.
Djokovic Acknowledges Sinner’s Strengths
Djokovic is aware of Sinner’s recent form, having lost to him in straight sets in the French Open semifinal. Despite Sinner holding a 5-4 lead in their head-to-head record, Djokovic has won both of their previous grass court encounters at Wimbledon. “I lost in straight sets to Jannik in the semis of Roland Garros. I think I played a solid match. I could have played better, but he was just a better player when the moments were important,” Djokovic said.
Sinner’s Mindset: Focused and Ready for the Challenge
Jannik Sinner, currently ranked world number one, is also looking forward to the match. “Me and Novak, we know (each other) … because we played quite a lot. So we understand what’s working and what’s not,” Sinner said. He acknowledges the difficulty of playing Djokovic at Wimbledon, where he has never won against him. “But I’ve never won against him here in Wimbledon, so it’s going to be a very, very tough challenge,” Sinner added.
Sinner’s Elbow Issue
Sinner has been dealing with an elbow issue that arose during his fourth-round match. He has been managing the pain with painkillers. “The pain is getting better,” he told BBC Sport. “I played with some painkillers which helped me to get through”. Sinner is optimistic that the day off before the semifinal will allow him to recover fully. “Time will always help and [Thursday] is one day off, which is going to be good for me, and Friday I’m going to be 100%,” he said.
Sinner’s Impressive Wimbledon Performance
Sinner has been in impressive form at Wimbledon, reaching the fourth round for the fourth consecutive year. He equaled the Open Era record for the fewest games dropped into the men’s singles fourth round at Wimbledon. Sinner is aiming to win his first Wimbledon title.
Head-to-Head Record and Historical Context
The head-to-head record between Sinner and Djokovic is currently 5-4 in favor of Sinner. However, Djokovic won their two previous Wimbledon encounters. Djokovic is making his 14th Wimbledon semifinal appearance, breaking Roger Federer’s all-time record. He has appeared in every Wimbledon final since 2018. Sinner reached the semifinals in 2023, his best prior run at Wimbledon.
Conclusion: A Semifinal Not to Be Missed
The semifinal match between Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both players are dealing with injury concerns but are determined to compete at their best. Djokovic’s experience and determination to win a record-equaling eighth Wimbledon title will be tested by Sinner’s current form and desire to win his first Wimbledon title.
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