Novak Djokovic’s remarkable run at Wimbledon has come to an end as the Serbian legend fell to Italy’s Jannik Sinner in straight sets, missing out on the final for the first time since 2017.
In a surprising turn, the 38-year-old seven-time champion lost 6–3, 6–3, 6–4 in the semifinals, setting up a blockbuster final between world no.1 Sinner and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.
Djokovic had reached six consecutive Wimbledon finals prior to this year and was aiming for a record-equalling eighth title. He was expected to meet Alcaraz once again in the final, after losing to the Spaniard in both the 2023 and 2024 finals. But this time, Sinner had other plans.
Despite the defeat, Djokovic expressed optimism about returning to the court at Wimbledon. "I hope this wasn`t my last match on Centre Court. I`m not planning to end my Wimbledon career today. I definitely want to come back and compete here again," he said after the match.
The difference in performance between the 23-year-old Sinner and the veteran Djokovic was evident, especially as Djokovic was still recovering from recent injuries. The intense 30°C heat also made conditions difficult for players and fans alike.
This was Djokovic’s second straight Grand Slam semifinal loss to Sinner, following a defeat at the French Open last month; a tournament where he hinted at potential retirement.
Meanwhile, in other semifinal, Spain`s Carlos Alcaraz defeated American Taylor Fritz 6-4, 5-7, 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) in a tightly contested match that lasted 2 hours and 49 minutes.
With this win, Alcaraz reaches his third consecutive Wimbledon final, aiming to defend his title once again.
For Sinner, it will be his first-ever appearance in a Wimbledon final, marking a new chapter in men`s tennis.