Novak Djokovic wrapped up a four-set victory towards big-serving Alexei Popyrin on a dark Saturday at Wimbledon.
The second-seeded Serbian star was made to dig deep. He rallied from a set down to shut out a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (3) win in three hours and 5 minutes and attain the final 16.
Novak broke twice from eight alternatives, whereas his rival transformed one break level from the 2 possibilities he earned.
“It was one other robust match. I didn’t anticipate something lower than what we skilled on the court docket at present from Alexei. I knew he was going to return to the match with confidence, numerous self-belief. He was near successful after we performed in Australia earlier this yr. With that serve and highly effective forehand, he’s harmful on any floor. He was the higher participant within the first set. I performed a very good second and third, and the fourth was anyone’s recreation. He was serving very effectively. It was very troublesome to learn his serve,” stated Nole. “It was only a very difficult match, mentally as effectively to hold in there. I’m not allowed to have too huge focus lapses. I feel I’ve accomplished effectively in that regard in probably the greatest tie-breaks I’ve performed this yr, that’s for certain.”
Match statistics: aces (19-19), double faults (3-4), winners (53-52), unforced errors (18-31), complete factors gained (135-111).
Novak will tackle no.15 seed Holger Rune subsequent (3-2 H2H document). The Dane defeated Quentin Halys in 5 units.
Picture: AP