Djokovic reflects on Wimbledon semi-final loss to Sinner

By Lewis Hartnell · Senior Football Correspondent · 10.07.2026

By Lewis Hartnell — 10 July 2026 — 3 min read

Novak Djokovic described his performance in the Wimbledon semi-final as “good but not good enough” after his defeat to Jannik Sinner. Despite reaching a Grand Slam semi-final at 39, having previously overcome an opponent 14 years his junior in a match lasting over five hours, Djokovic was ultimately swept aside by Sinner in straight sets.

For many players, reaching a Grand Slam semi-final and final in the same year would be considered a success. However, for Djokovic, who has achieved numerous titles and records throughout his career, the standard is higher. He stated, “I’m blessed and cursed to be used to something of a highest degree in terms of results and achievements.” Djokovic acknowledged his ability to compete at a high level and challenge younger players, but maintained his own highest expectations.

Sinner’s Dominant Performance

Sinner delivered a powerful and precise display, ending Djokovic’s bid for a standalone record 25th Grand Slam title. Sinner did not concede a break point until midway through the third set, and even then, he saved Djokovic’s only opportunity with an ace. Sinner secured the victory with a 6-4 6-4 6-4 scoreline.

The Italian player, who is the first from his country to reach multiple Wimbledon men’s singles finals, served out the match before embracing Djokovic at the net. This marked Sinner’s 99th Grand Slam match win, and he is set to face Alexander Zverev in his seventh major final. Sinner expressed his satisfaction, calling Wimbledon “the most special tournament we have” and acknowledging Djokovic as a significant inspiration.

Sinner’s performance was particularly notable given that he had not dropped a set since his opening match of the tournament. He showcased excellent serving, delivering 16 aces, and demonstrated superiority in both attack and defence, hitting 40 winners with only 15 unforced errors. Djokovic, who had played a demanding five-set match against Felix Auger-Aliassime just two days prior, was unable to match Sinner’s intensity.

The crowd at Centre Court rallied behind Djokovic, chanting his name in an attempt to inspire a comeback. However, Sinner remained relentless, creating break points and ultimately securing the win in two hours and 20 minutes. This match was only six minutes longer than Sinner’s quickest victory in this year’s tournament.

Djokovic’s Future Outlook

Djokovic reflected on his physical condition, stating, “Here I was feeling fine. Maybe not the freshest, like at the beginning of the tournament, but I was physically all right.” He conceded that Sinner was the superior player on the day, acknowledging his dominant force. Despite the loss, Djokovic expressed his hope to return to Wimbledon “at least once more.”

Former world number one Andre Agassi commented on Djokovic’s enduring presence in the sport, noting that “hope is fragile but hard to kill.” Djokovic has won seven of his 24 Grand Slam titles at Wimbledon. While Carlos Alcaraz was not present this year, Sinner proved to be a formidable opponent, potentially motivated by his earlier loss at the French Open.

There has been a noticeable shift in how crowds receive Djokovic at this year’s championships. Once perceived as a disruptor to the Roger Federer–Rafael Nadal rivalry, Djokovic has increasingly become a crowd favourite. During his match against Auger-Aliassime, the crowd cheered for him, and against Sinner, they chanted his nickname, “Nole! Nole!” whenever he faced a break point.

Agassi observed this change, stating, “He’s now getting the respect he deserves. I love it.” As Djokovic left the court after his semi-final loss, he placed his hand over his heart and waved to the crowd. He will be 40 by the time Wimbledon takes place next year. Ken Rosewall, at 39 years and 234 days, holds the record as the oldest man in the Open era to win a Grand Slam singles title. Djokovic affirmed his desire to continue playing, stating, “I do it because I really want to and because I still can play as a top-five player.”

Sinner will face Alexander Zverev in the final on Sunday.

Source: bbc.co.uk

Lewis Hartnell

Senior Football Correspondent

As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”