Age-defying Novak Djokovic cruises into his ninth Wimbledon final, proving that '36 is the new 26,' following an impressive victory over Jannik Sinner; sets up clash against Carlos Alcaraz
%20(1).jpg "Age-defying Novak Djokovic cruises into his ninth Wimbledon final, proving that '36 is the new 26,' following an impressive victory over Jannik Sinner; sets up clash against Carlos Alcaraz") |
| Age-defying Novak Djokovic cruises into his ninth Wimbledon final, proving that '36 is the new 26,' following an impressive victory over Jannik Sinner; sets up clash against Carlos Alcaraz (Image Source : edition.cnn.com) |
Novak Djokovic continues to defy the limitations of age, as he stands on the cusp of claiming an unparalleled eighth Wimbledon championship.
The Serbian maestro displayed his unwavering prowess, outclassing Italy's Jannik Sinner in a commanding straight-sets victory of 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 in the semifinals held on Friday.
This resounding triumph propels the 36-year-old into his record-breaking 35th grand slam final, surpassing the illustrious milestone set by Chris Evert.
The stage is now set for Djokovic to go head-to-head with Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday's ultimate showdown.
Undoubtedly, Djokovic assumes the role of the overwhelming favorite to capture his 24th grand slam title, thus extending his unprecedented record.
His formidable campaign in 2023 has already seen triumphs at the Australian Open and the French Open, solidifying his status as the dominant force in men's tennis.
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Remarkably, Djokovic has suffered defeat in just one of the Wimbledon finals he has reached, an occurrence that transpired a decade ago when he succumbed to the skill of Andy Murray.
"I adore it"
Always the entertainer, Djokovic engaged in a playful exchange with a fan during a crucial moment in the gripping third set. The fan had expressed jubilation when Djokovic missed his first serve at break point.
%20(1).jpg "Age-defying Novak Djokovic cruises into his ninth Wimbledon final, proving that '36 is the new 26,' following an impressive victory over Jannik Sinner; sets up clash against Carlos Alcaraz")
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Undeterred, Djokovic managed to hold his serve and then turned to the fan, humorously mimicking wiping tears from his eyes.
Meanwhile, Sinner, experiencing the semifinals of a grand slam for the very first time, displayed unwavering determination on the court.
However, his remarkable efforts couldn't match the relentless brilliance of Djokovic.
Sinner gave it his all but ultimately fell short against the seasoned champion.
The 21-year-old, widely recognized as a shining star in the world of tennis, undoubtedly possesses the potential to grace the grand slam stage in the near future.
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However, for now, it is the seasoned maestro of the sport who continues to dominate the prestigious SW19 tournament.
Reflecting on the intense semifinals, Djokovic graciously acknowledged the anticipated tight battle, stating, "It was always expected to be a closely contested and tense match, and that's exactly how it unfolded."
Despite the straightforward scoreline, the match itself was an intense affair, filled with closely fought sets.
%20(1).jpg "Age-defying Novak Djokovic cruises into his ninth Wimbledon final, proving that '36 is the new 26,' following an impressive victory over Jannik Sinner; sets up clash against Carlos Alcaraz")
"In the third set, the tide could have turned in his favor. He had a golden opportunity at 15-40 during 5-4... but he missed a couple of shots, allowing me to enter the tie-break.
There was immense pressure in the third set, and although I had my chances early on, he demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the leaders of the upcoming generation and among the finest players in the world."
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Amidst a lighthearted moment, Djokovic humorously remarked, "Being part of this new generation is fantastic—I absolutely love it."
Uncommon obstruction decision
The initial signs appeared promising for Sinner, as he managed to create a break point opportunity in Djokovic's opening service game.
However, he failed to convert it, and the tide swiftly turned against him when Djokovic broke Sinner's serve in his own opening game, seizing control of the first set.
Throughout the first set, Sinner had three chances to break Djokovic's serve, whereas Djokovic had just one opportunity.
Regrettably for Sinner, he couldn't capitalize on any of his break points, while his opponent relentlessly converted the sole chance that came his way.
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The second set unfolded in a similar fashion, with Sinner once again getting broken early on.
%20(1).jpg "Age-defying Novak Djokovic cruises into his ninth Wimbledon final, proving that '36 is the new 26,' following an impressive victory over Jannik Sinner; sets up clash against Carlos Alcaraz")
A dejected expression gradually appeared on his face as the match witnessed moments of careless tennis.
A peculiar incident occurred in the second set when umpire Richard Haigh penalized Djokovic for a hindrance, granting the point to Sinner.
This unusual turn of events took place after Djokovic emitted a delayed grunt while executing a backhand shot.
"The earlier hindrance call during today's match had the potential to alter its course," acknowledged Djokovic.
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"After the chair umpire's call, I felt a wave of nerves, but I managed to gather myself. It was an unprecedented experience in my career. Generally, I don't have prolonged grunts, so perhaps it was an echo from the roof or something. Although I didn't perceive it as a hindrance, I had to respect the call."
Subsequently, Haigh penalized Djokovic with a time violation for his serve.
Undoubtedly, this decision was correct, but it only added to the frustration felt by Djokovic and the crowd.
Unfazed by the umpire's rulings, Djokovic maintained his composure and held his serve, ultimately securing a commanding two-set lead.
%20(1).jpg "Age-defying Novak Djokovic cruises into his ninth Wimbledon final, proving that '36 is the new 26,' following an impressive victory over Jannik Sinner; sets up clash against Carlos Alcaraz")
"Forever indebted"
Sinner deserves tremendous recognition for his relentless fight, persisting deep into the third set while expressing his triumph with clenched fists towards his support team after every thunderous winner, including one that clocked an impressive 100 miles per hour on the speed radar.
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Remarkably, the young talent showcased his finest tennis of the match at this point, earning himself the opportunity to claim the third set in a tie-break.
Nonetheless, Djokovic stood firm, intensifying his game once again to secure the tie-break and ultimately the entire match.
Even at the seasoned age of 36 - particularly in the context of tennis - Djokovic asserts that he may currently be playing some of the most outstanding tennis of his career.
"I'd like to believe that's the case," he stated. "As participants in an individual sport, we must rely on ourselves and attain the best possible physical, mental, and emotional state before stepping onto the court.
"I consciously avoid considering age as a hindrance that could affect the outcome on the court. I feel that 36 is the new 26, and it feels exhilarating.
"I am immensely motivated and inspired to play the sport that I genuinely love. Tennis has bestowed upon me countless blessings, and I am eternally grateful. Thus, I intend to reciprocate by dedicating myself to this sport and participating as much as humanly possible."
In the other semifinal clash, Alcaraz attained his inaugural Wimbledon final triumphantly by overpowering Daniil Medvedev in straight sets of 6-3, 6-3, 6-3.
Alcaraz surged ahead with a commanding lead in the first two sets, employing powerful strokes and delicate drop shots.
Despite Medvedev showcasing his resilience and determination in the final set to display his prowess, the world's top-ranked player secured his spot in the tournament's final with his trademark precision forehand.
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