LONDON, JUL 5 (IANS): Novak Djokovic etched his name deeper into Wimbledon history by surpassing Roger Federer’s record of 105 men’s singles wins. The seven time champion defeated qualifier Roman Safiullin 7 6(6), 6 3, 3 6, 6 3 in a gripping fourth round clash that lasted three hours and 26 minutes. This marked his 106th victory at the All England Club, second only to Martina Navratilova’s 120 overall singles wins. Djokovic, now into his ninth consecutive quarter final and 17th overall, showcased trademark resilience. Safiullin, returning from injury, pushed hard, even holding set points in the opener, but Djokovic’s composure in key moments proved decisive. The Serbian will next face either Felix Auger Aliassime or Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, with a possible semi final against defending champion Jannik Sinner looming.
Muchova outlasts Krejcikova
Karolína Muchová advanced to her third Wimbledon quarter final after defeating compatriot Barbora Krejčíková 7 5, 5 7, 6 3 in a two hour 45 minute battle. Muchová, who had endured four straight first round exits at Wimbledon, broke that streak with a composed performance. After edging a tight first set, she looked set to close out the match in straight sets before Krejčíková mounted a spirited comeback to force a decider. In the final set, Muchová’s aggressive net play and superior consistency carried her through. She struck 50 winners against 29 unforced errors, compared to Krejčíková’s 24 winners and 32 errors. The win extended Muchová’s streak to 11 consecutive victories over Czech opponents and set up a quarter final against either Aryna Sabalenka or Naomi Osaka.
Pegula beat Jovic
Fourth seed Jessica Pegula booked her second Wimbledon quarter final by defeating teenager Iva Jovic 4 6, 6 3, 6 1. Despite a shaky start marked by 16 unforced errors and four service breaks, Pegula regrouped to dominate the final two sets. Her improved serving, with first serve accuracy above 80 percent, and a crucial comeback from 0 40 down in the deciding set turned the match in her favor. Pegula, who has now beaten Jovic on all three surfaces this season, will next face either Coco Gauff or Belinda Bencic in a high stakes clash as she continues her pursuit of a maiden Grand Slam title.
Dimitrov’s thrilling victory
Grigor Dimitrov delivered one of the tournament’s standout performances, defeating Matteo Berrettini 6 3, 6 4, 3 6, 5 7, 6 3 in a dramatic five set encounter. Returning to Centre Court after last year’s injury forced retirement, Dimitrov showed grit and precision to overcome the 2021 finalist. Though Berrettini fought back from two sets down, Dimitrov held firm in the decider, breaking once to secure victory after three hours and 32 minutes. Ranked No. 146 and competing as a wild card, Dimitrov now leads Berrettini 2 1 in their head to head and will face Britain’s Arthur Fery in the fourth round.
