The current World No. 1 Jannik Sinner takes on grass-court legend Novak Djokovic in the second of Friday’s men’s Wimbledon semifinals on Centre Court in a generational battle that promises to be must-see tennis.
The 23-year-old Sinner has sailed through the draw, bouncing back from a scare with an elbow slip and standing strong. He’s also had some luck.
Down two sets to none against Grigor Dimitrov in the fourth round, Sinner’s opponent was forced to retire due to a partially torn pec.
Meanwhile, the 38-year-old Djokovic defied a nasty fall in his quarterfinal to secure a 14th Wimbledon semifinal, proving he’s still a force — even as he manages physical wear at this stage in his career
Sinner vs. Djokovic Head-to-Head
Sinner and Djokovic are more than familiar with one another. They’ve met nine times, with Sinner holding a narrow 5–4 edge.
While Sinner has won their last four meetings, Djokovic, crucially, has never lost to Sinner on grass.
The Serbian has prevailed in both Wimbledon meetings, including at the semifinals in 2023. Now, the Serbian seeks to turn the tables after losing four to the Italian.
What to Watch
Early supremacy: Sinner’s precision baseline assault versus Djokovic’s elite grass-court variety. Critical opening breaks will set the tone.
Physical fragility: Djokovic is managing soreness from a tumble; Sinner continues with his elbow taped. Both appear competitive, but not without concern
Big-point temperament: Djokovic thrives in clutch moments. Can Sinner’s youth and confidence tip the scales in tight games?
Prediction
Sinner in five. Expect a repeat of their nearly three-hour 2025 Roland Garros battle that saw Sinner edge Djokovic in straight but fiercely contested sets, capped by a tense third-set tiebreak.
If Djokovic’s body grants him reach and rhythm, his experience could give him the edge. But youth and momentum are on Sinner’s side, notwithstanding Djokovic’s grass-court dominance.
How to Watch Sinner vs. Djokovic
The Jannik Sinner–Novak Djokovic match is now scheduled for 11:55 AM Eastern, following Carlos Alcaraz’s gritty defeat of Taylor Fritz in the first men’s semifinal.
It will air live on ESPN, with full streaming available on the ESPN app and website.
Jannik Sinner (1) vs. Novak Djokovic (6)
Time: Approx. 11:55 AM Eastern
Court: Centre Court
TV: ESPN
Streaming: ESPN app and website, ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV
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