Novak Djokovic equaled Roger Federer's men's record of 105 Wimbledon singles match victories on Friday, defeating French player Arthur Rinderknech 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4) on Centre Court.
The 39-year-old top seed secured his 18th fourth-round appearance at the All England Club. Only Martina Navratilova has more singles wins at Wimbledon, with 120.
"Today, I was quite stressed out, more tension than usual," Djokovic said during his on-court interview with Sportsnet.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion dropped the third set in just 18 minutes before recovering in the fourth-set tiebreaker.
He sealed the match with a diving volley after Rinderknech slipped on the final point.
"I saw him slip and kind of fall down. And I was just like 'please stay down' for that last shot," Djokovic stated.
Djokovic repeatedly punched his thigh during the tense three-hour match.
"Joining Federer on 105 singles match wins is a huge honour and privilege," Djokovic commented.
Djokovic Jokes About Match with Federer
Following the milestone, the seven-time champion lightheartedly suggested a unique way to break the tie with his retired rival.
"I propose a matchup for me and Roger for 106," Djokovic joked. "Whoever wins it, gets it.
Let's just stop this here and let's call him down."
Djokovic remains focused on his immediate performances.
"I'm not really thinking about how many more I can get, I'm just really trying to win the match on a given day," he said.
The veteran acknowledged the challenges of competing at this stage of his career.
"At this age and stage in my career, every day brings something new and unpredictable for me," Djokovic explained.
He expressed optimism about his upcoming schedule. "I'm hoping that I will come out at my best in a few days' time," Djokovic concluded.
Djokovic will next face Russian qualifier Roman Safiullin, who defeated 24th-seeded Brazilian João Fonseca 6-3, 6-3, 6-3.
Safiullin, ranked 132nd, wept on court as he recalled his recovery from a severe knee injury.
"After the U. S.
Open, I had to stop — for treating my injury," Safiullin said. "That time was super tough.
Even let's say half a year ago I didn't know if I will be able to be back."
Defending champion Jannik Sinner also advanced, beating American Jenson Brooksby 6-4, 6-3, 6-4.
Sinner hit 13 aces and won 87 percent of his first-serve points, achieving an Open era record of 20 consecutive third-round Grand Slam victories.
Sinner will face Japanese qualifier Shintaro Mochizuki in the fourth round.
