Tank half empty, coronary heart nonetheless full: Novak Djokovic eyes 2026 Wimbledon return
Novak Djokovic stated he has no plans to finish his Wimbledon journey simply but, regardless of crashing out of the continuing main. On Friday, July 11, the 38-year-old fell to Jannik Sinner, who wanted just below two hours to win the semi-final 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 on Centre Court docket.
Djokovic struggled to seek out rhythm within the first two units however confirmed indicators of a comeback within the third, going 3-0 up with an early break of serve. Nonetheless, the momentum shifted once more as Sinner broke again twice and by no means allowed Djokovic to regain management.
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After the match, Djokovic expressed his want to return to Wimbledon subsequent yr. He was aiming to equal Roger Federer’s file of eight titles on the All England Membership however will now have to attend one other yr to chase that milestone.
“I might be unhappy, however hopefully it isn’t my final match on Centre Court docket. I am not planning to complete my Wimbledon profession right now. I am planning to come back again undoubtedly no less than yet one more time,” Djokovic stated within the post-match press convention.
‘Put on and tear’
Djokovic additionally admitted that age has began to take a toll on him. Having not received a Grand Slam because the 2023 US Open, he acknowledged that the previous yr and a half hasn’t been straightforward on his physique. He conceded that competing in opposition to youthful gamers like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who’re considerably youthful and bodily sharper, has been notably difficult.
“I don’t assume it’s dangerous fortune. It’s simply age. The wear and tear and tear of the physique. As a lot as I’m taking good care of it, the truth hits me proper now the final yr and a half like by no means earlier than to be trustworthy. It’s powerful for me to simply accept that as a result of I really feel like once I’m recent and match I can nonetheless play excellent tennis. I’ve confirmed that this yr,” Djokovic stated.
“Enjoying greatest of 5, notably this yr, has been an actual battle for me bodily. The longer the event goes, the more serious the situation will get. I reached the semis of each slam this yr. I’ve to play Sinner or Alcaraz. These guys are match, younger, sharp. I really feel like I’m going into the match with the tank half empty. It’s not potential to win the match like that. It’s what it’s,” Djokovic added.
For the primary time since 2017, a Wimbledon ultimate is not going to function Novak Djokovic. The final time it occurred was when Roger Federer claimed his eighth title at SW19, defeating Marin Cilic in straight units within the ultimate. For these unaware, no male participant over the age of 38 has ever received a Grand Slam singles title.
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