Novak Djokovic defeated Roman Safiullin on Sunday, July 5, to advance to the quarter-finals of the Wimbledon Championships [1, 2].
The victory is significant because it places Djokovic in a position to equal or surpass the all-time Wimbledon match-win record held by Roger Federer [3, 4].
Playing on Centre Court in London, Djokovic overcame the Russian qualifier in a match he described as a struggle. Despite the result, the Serbian player expressed a lack of satisfaction with his performance during the contest.
"I'm relieved it's over. It was a tough, ugly match, but I managed to grind it out," Djokovic said [2].
Reports on the exact number of career wins at Wimbledon following this match vary. One report stated the victory was his 105th match win, which would equal Federer's record [3]. However, another source indicated the win was his 106th match victory, which would break the record [4].
Djokovic remained positive about the atmosphere of the event during his post-match press conference. He said the support of the spectators provided his energy on the court.
"We had a great crowd, and I think I played my best tennis today," Djokovic said [1].
The path to the quarter-finals was marked by Safiullin's own recent momentum, as the Russian had previously stunned Joao Fonseca earlier in the tournament [3]. Djokovic's ability to withstand the qualifier's challenge ensures his continued pursuit of further titles at the All England Club.
“"I'm relieved it's over. It was a tough, ugly match, but I managed to grind it out."”
This result solidifies Djokovic's status as one of the most dominant grass-court players in history. By reaching the quarter-finals and potentially surpassing Roger Federer's match-win record, Djokovic is not just competing for a 2026 title, but is actively rewriting the historical record books of the oldest tennis tournament in the world.
