Novak Djokovic broke Roger Federer’s Wimbledon record to reach the quarterfinals

Novak Djokovic moved a step closer to a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title after overcoming a spirited challenge from Roman Safiullin 7-6(6), 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to book a place in the quarter-finals on Sunday (July 5).

The seven-time champion was forced by Russia, who matched the Serbian for a long time with fearless shooting and relentless aggression on the baseline. Djokovic overcame a tense opening set tie-break before taking control of the second set, but Safiullin refused to back down, claiming the third to force the 39-year-old into another stern test on Center Court.

Wimbledon 2026 Update on 7

Drawing on his vast experience, Djokovic settled down in the fourth set, tightening his serve and reducing the unforced errors that had crept into his game. He secured a crucial break of serve to record his 106th Wimbledon singles win, moving past Roger Federer (105) for the most men’s singles wins at the All England Club in the Open Era.

After the match, Djokovic said: “Another hard-fought win. Roman started very well. Roman started very well, very aggressive. I didn’t feel that comfortable from the back of the court. I knew it would be a challenge to stay with him in the rally. He is a very solid player. He should be proud of his performance today.”

In the quarterfinals, Djokovic will face the winner of the match between Felix Auger-Aliassim and Alejandro Davidovic Fokina.

Pegula, Muchová also reserve the last eight places

In the women’s draw, fourth seed Jessica Pegula recovered from a slow start to beat American Iva Jovic 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals.

After dropping the opening set against the 18-year-old, Pegula raised her level considerably, reducing her errors and dominating the final two sets to advance to the last eight. She will face the winner of the round of 16 between Belinda Bencic and Coco Gauff.

Karolína Muchová also advanced after ending 2024 champion Barbora Krejčíková’s defense with a hard-fought 7-5, 5-7, 6-3 victory in the all-Czech clash.

Muchova showed her typical versatility and composure in the deciding set to seal a deserved win and reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals. She will next face the winner of the blockbuster round of 16 match between world number one Aryna Sabalenko and former Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

05 Jul 2026 22:01 IST