Novak Djokovic produced an astonishing performance to beat Felix Auger-Aliassime in a five-set thriller lasting over five hours to set up a blockbuster Wimbledon semi-final against defending champion Jannik Sinner.
Bidding for a record 25th Grand Slam title, having been tied with Margaret Court since the 2023 US Open, it seemed like Djokovic’s latest bid was on the brink when he pulled up with a leg injury in the first set.
But a medical time-out and a massage appeared to solve the problem and the 39-year-old was still fighting hard four sets later against fourth seed Auger-Aliassime.
After entertaining a packed Centre Court for five hours and 15 minutes, it was Djokovic who stood with his arms aloft in triumph after a 7-6 (12-10) 3-6 6-3 6-7 (4-7) 7-6 (10-4) victory.
“I won that match with a racquet and a lot of heart,” an exhausted Djokovic said.
“What can I say? These are the kind of moments I still play tennis for.
“I wish it was the final so I don’t need to worry about how the body will feel tomorrow, but I’m happy that I won.”