Novak Djokovic’s dreams of a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title at the age of 39 were firmly snuffed out by defending champion Jannik Sinner at the semi-final stage on Friday, as the Italian won 6-4 6-4 6-4.
Djokovic, who was seeking to go level with Roger Federer in terms of Wimbledon crowns, has struggled with fatigue during his last three Centre Court contests this year, digging deep to come through each one despite visibly fading in the closing stages.
Friday’s contest proved an altogether different matter, however, as a ruthless and clinical Sinner dispatched of the Serb in straight sets – the match time totalling two hours and 20 minutes.
Sinner, who arrived at Wimbledon this year under a cloud of his shock French Open second-round exit in May – having collapsed from 6-3 6-2 5-1 in front vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo, and with main rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured – has built in terms of form through the tournament, peaking with this semi-final performance.
Indeed, the 24-year-old produced one of the finest serving displays of his career – consistently producing aces and unreturnable efforts – while his powerful, attacking groundstrokes repeatedly punished Djokovic, and his defence was again at a level to marvel at.
Sinner will face Germany’s Alexander Zverev in Sunday’s Wimbledon final, after the latter knocked out unlikely British hope Arthur Fery 7-6 (7-0) 6-2 6-4 earlier on Friday.
More to follow…
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