July 10, 2025: Novak Djokovic overcame a tense moment and a physical scare to book his spot in the Wimbledon 2025 semifinals after defeating Italy’s Flavio Cobolli in four sets — 6-7(6), 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 — under the lights at the All England Club on Wednesday.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion, chasing a record-equalling eighth title, experienced a nasty fall in the fourth set at 5-4, 40/30 while trying to change direction on the slippery grass surface. The 38-year-old Serbian collapsed into an awkward split, drawing immediate concern from the chair umpire, Cobolli, and the Centre Court crowd.
“It was a nasty fall. Very awkward,” Djokovic said post-match. “That happens on grass. My body is not the same today as it was years ago, so we’ll see how it feels in the next 24 to 48 hours.”
Despite the scare, Djokovic rose to his feet, stretched his left leg, and managed to close out the match without further incident. He showed no visible signs of injury during the final points, much to the relief of fans — including wife Jelena and son Stefan — who appeared visibly concerned in the stands.
Djokovic’s win marks his 102nd career victory at Wimbledon, and he is now just two wins away from claiming a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. He will next face World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in a highly anticipated semifinal clash.
Reflecting on his journey and longevity, Djokovic admitted the grind has been more demanding with age:
“Sometimes I get tired of all the chores just to get my body ready. It’s a lot of hours spent off-court – in the gym, recovery, therapy. But I’m proud to be moving and playing like this at 38.”
If Djokovic clinches the Wimbledon crown this year, he would equal Roger Federer’s record of eight titles at the prestigious tournament and become the oldest men’s singles champion in Wimbledon’s Open Era.
The tennis world now watches closely, not just for the outcome of his semifinal, but also for signs of how the fall may impact Djokovic’s historic campaign.