Wimbledon 2025 Djokovic 'Hangs In Tough'

Watched by Federer, he rebounds from weak start to beat de Minaur in 4 sets

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LONDON - Novak Djokovic said it was "good to break the curse" in front of Roger Federer, after recovering from a set down to beat Alex de Minaur and reach his 16th Wimbledon quarter-final on July 7.

He was lethargic and unusually tentative in the early stages of his last-16 match against the Australian 11th seed on Centre Court, but eventually found his rhythm to win 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.

It keeps the seven-time champion on track for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, which would be the crowning achievement of an astonishing career.

If he wins the crown on July 13, the 38-year-old Serb would also draw level with Federer's record of eight men's titles at the All England Club.

Retired Swiss great Federer watched from the royal box as his long-time rival was given his toughest test of the tournament so far.

"It's probably the first time he's watching me and I've won the match," said Djokovic. "The last couple I lost, so good to break the curse.

"No, it's great, obviously, great to have Roger, a huge champion and someone that I admired and respected a lot.

"We shared the stage for so many years, and it's great to have him back."