LONDON: Novak Djokovic earned his 100th match win at Wimbledon on Saturday when he flew past countryman Miomir Kecmanovic 6-3, 6-0, 6-4 to reach the fourth round at Wimbledon for the 17th time.
In his best performance of the week, the 38-year-old Serbian was in full control against Kecmanovic, who was powerless to stop his fate. Djokovic dominated the baseline exchanges and entertained the Centre Court crowd with a number of deft volleys to book his spot in the second week after one hour and 47 minutes.
The sixth seed’s stellar display ensured that he became only the third player to claim 100 match wins on the All England Club lawns after nine-time champion Martina Navratilova and eight-time winner Roger Federer.
“It’s very historic. It sounds very nice. I’m very grateful, obviously, privileged to be in the position that I am,” the 38-year-old Djokovic said.
“I’ve said it many times. Tennis made me who I am, and has given me incredible things in life that I can experience. I try not to take anything for granted, particularly at this age, still going strong, still trying to compete with the young players.”
“Wimbledon is a favourite and a dream tournament for not just me, but probably the majority of players. Growing up, most of the kids dream of playing here and winning here.
“I’ve been blessed to do it multiple times. Any history that I make in my favourite tournament, I’m blessed.”
Djokovic started and finished the opening set with aces and grabbed the decisive break during the see-sawing eighth game. At one point, he had the Centre Court crowd standing in ovation when he produced a spectacular diving winner at the net. Agencies
Most Wins in a Grand Slam:
Player Tournament Wins
Rafael Nadal Roland Garros 112
Roger Federer Wimbledon 105
Roger Federer Australian Open 102
Novak Djokovic Roland Garros 101
Novak Djokovic Wimbledon 100
Novak Djokovic Australian Open 99
Jimmy Connors US Open 98
Djokovic's Grand Slam Match Records:
Tournament W-L
Australian Open 99-10
Roland Garros 101-17
Wimbledon 100-12*
US Open 90-14
Total 390-53
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