Novak Djokovic hits century at Wimbledon

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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