Novak Djokovic says he is “of course” the favourite to win Wimbledon, after reaching the semi-finals.
The seven-time champion was typically confident after beating seventh seed Andrey Rublev 4-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-3 in a high-quality thriller. The Serbian, 36, now faces first-time semi-finalist Jannik Sinner on Friday.
Speaking after beating Russian big-hitter Rublev, Djokovic said: “It was like a dogfight. He had his chances, I had my chances. I’m very glad to overcome the challenge. I think this is the best I’ve played him in any grand slam.
“He played terrific tennis. So far, so good — we reached the semi-finals. Still a couple of matches to go. Hopefully, I can get a shot at the title.”
Asked whether he is the favourite to lift the trophy, Djokovic could not be accused of dodging the question.
“I don’t want to sound arrogant, but of course I would consider myself favourite,” he said. “Judging with the results I’ve had here — the previous four occasions of Wimbledon I won, and reaching the other semi-final — I do consider myself favourite.”
Djokovic sent a message to the players left in the tournament, saying: “I know that they want to get a scalp, but it ain’t happening. I’m very humble!”
Djokovic, who has not lost on Centre Court in more than a decade, is some 15 years older than his next opponent, Sinner. He has beaten him in both previous meetings, including their gruelling five-set quarter-final here last year, yet spoke glowingly of the Italian.
“We’ve mostly played [our matches] at the same time,” he said. “I’ve watched him a little bit. He’s playing on a very high level. He likes to play on grass. From forehand and backhand, he’s smashing the ball really, really hard, trying to be the one to dictate the point from early on. I know his game well. He’s so young, so of course it’s expected that he’s going to improve. He is improving.
“He’s a very complete player. I’m looking forward to that challenge. I’m sure he’s going to be very, very motivated to win.”
