Novak Djokovic Summons The Inner Warrior On Centre Court
Wimbledon
July 14, 2023
Novak Djokovic provided moments of pure theatre and summoned a colossal second serve on Centre Court.
The third set was the most memorable in Novak’s impressive 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) victory over young pretender Jannik Sinner.
The reigning champion was distracted by a taunt from the crowd between serves – and applauded sarcastically. The extraordinary thing was that Novak faced two set points at the time – and still managed to find the composure to get out of jail.
When he did, Djokovic pretended to cry, his own revenge taunt at the anguish he had just caused his detractors.
Novak Djokovic is playing the pantomime villain at Wimbledon 2023 – and he relishes the role.
But the second set had seen even more psychological turbulence when Djokovic was penalised for being too noisy at 1-2.
He groaned suddenly and loudly just before Sinner played a shot. But Novak argued with the umpire at the time – and later explained why.
‘The hindrance could have changed the course of the match,’ pointed out Novak. ‘I felt really nervous after the call from the chair umpire. First time in my career that I had an “extended grunt” – but maybe it was an echo off the roof. It’s a call I have to respect.’
Djokovic sustained a time penalty in the same game – and it seemed like events were conspiring against him. But he closed out in the third-set breaker with some awesome second serving – and that proved the difference.
Novak reflected: ‘Semi-finals! It was always going to be very close and very tense. Three very close sets – and the score-line doesn’t reflect the reality.
‘The third set didn’t go his way. He was 15-40 and 4-5 up – and then later he missed a few shots and allowed me to get into the tie-break. A lot of pressure – especially in the third.’
Djokovic paid tribute to Sinner as one of the best of the upcoming youngsters. ‘It’s great to be part of this new generation,’ said the 36-year-old.
‘I’d like to believe I’m playing my best tennis, you have to put yourself in the best physical, emotional and mental state. I try not to look at the age as a hindrance when I’m coming out. I guess 36 is good!’
And Djokovic isn’t about to quite tennis any time soon. Not when he has just reached yet another Wimbledon final. ‘I’m eternally grateful to this sport and I’ll try to be honest and return the favour and play as long as I possibly can.’
Novak Djokovic could be about to secure Grand Slam number 24 at Wimbledon 2023. Will you be there to see history made on Sunday?
The drama and pleasure keeps on coming at Wimbledon 2023. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and join the party for the finals on Saturday and Sunday!