Felix Auger-Aliassime is preparing to face Novak Djokovic in a crucial Wimbledon quarter-final match, aiming to halt the Serbian star’s pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam singles title. Djokovic currently shares the all-time record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles with Margaret Court, with seven of those victories achieved on the grass courts at Wimbledon. At 39 years old, Djokovic will be 40 before next year’s tournament, making this one of his last opportunities to extend his record.
Auger-Aliassime, 25 and seeded third, is seeking to reach the Wimbledon semi-finals for the first time. He acknowledged the challenge ahead, stressing the need to perform at his highest level to succeed. “It’s simple, I need to play my best. There’s no going through if I don’t play my best,” Auger-Aliassime said. “I hope I can show that I’ve improved as a player. It’s a big honour for me to play this match. It’s one of those matches you train and prepare for.”
This encounter marks the first time the two players will meet on grass. Djokovic recently achieved a milestone in his fourth-round match by securing his 106th win at Wimbledon, surpassing Roger Federer for the most match wins in the tournament’s history.
Despite being an opponent, Auger-Aliassime has expressed respect and gratitude for Djokovic’s influence on his development. He revealed that he has sought advice from Djokovic and appreciates the Serbian’s openness in sharing his experience. “I can only say good things about Novak. As a kid, I didn’t appreciate it, but now that I’m a player, the work he’s done over the years – I’m not even near that. It’s crazy. Huge respect to him,” Auger-Aliassime noted. “He’s been generous with his time. I’ve reached out to him to ask him questions, to pick his brain. I love to listen and learn from older players. Huge respect, not only as a player, but as a person.”
The match is highly anticipated, with Djokovic aiming to continue his pursuit of tennis history and Auger-Aliassime looking to establish himself further among the sport’s elite by reaching Wimbledon’s semi-finals for the first time.