Djokovic faces Sinner again in Wimbledon semi-final as history beckons

Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner will meet in the Wimbledon semi-finals on Friday, a rematch of last year's clash at the same stage. Djokovic, at 39, is two wins away from an outright record 25th Grand Slam singles title, while defending champion Sinner aims to halt his pursuit.

Djokovic advanced after a gruelling five-hour, 15-minute quarter-final against Felix Auger-Aliassime, requiring a medical timeout for a left calf issue. Sinner, meanwhile, has not dropped a set since his opening match and is fully fit after playing through an elbow injury in their 2024 semi-final.

Head-to-head and historical stakes

Sinner has won the last five meetings with Djokovic, including that semi-final in Melbourne last year. However, Djokovic saved 16 of 18 break points in their Australian Open semi-final in January and has shown remarkable resilience throughout his career, notably winning the 2012 Australian Open after a five-hour semi-final and a nearly six-hour final.

• Djokovic seeks to break the tie with Margaret Court for most Grand Slam singles titles (24).
• Sinner, the world number one, has yet to drop a set this Wimbledon after his opener.
• Djokovic's quarter-final against Auger-Aliassime ended just before 11 p.m. local time.
• The winner advances to Sunday's final against the other semi-final pairing.

What's next

Friday's semi-final is scheduled for Centre Court. Djokovic, despite his age and recent exertions, remains a formidable opponent, while Sinner aims to extend his dominance over the Serbian. The match will determine who moves one step closer to the Wimbledon trophy.