Novak Djokovic makes Wimbledon history at 39

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jul 7, 2026 10:56 PM ET

Technically speaking, Novak Djokovic doesn't owe the tennis community anything at this stage in his career. And yet, the 39-year-old just keeps on rewriting history.

Djokovic prevailed in an epic quarterfinal match against No. 3 seed Felix Auger-Aliassime at Wimbledon this Tuesday. The 24-time Grand Slam champion needed 5 hours and 15 minutes to secure a 7-6 (10), 3-6, 6-3, 6-7 (4), 7-6 (4) win.

Not only was Tuesday's showdown with Auger-Aliassime the longest Wimbledon match of Djokovic's career, it marked the longest quarterfinal of all time at the All England Club.

"These are the kind of moments that I still play tennis for," Djokovic said. "I'm still able to battle these young guys that have 15 years less than me. I'm able to beat them at the tightest possible scoreline. ... In a sense, it is really a nice surprise. But at the same time, I always have the highest expectations for myself."

Auger-Aliassime, who continues to rise up the ATP rankings, showed respect to Djokovic after their historic quarterfinal match.

"We know, because we've seen him so much, but it's so impressive that he does it time and time again," Auger-Aliassime said.

So close to major title No. 25.

It's no secret that Djokovic is on the hunt for at least one last Grand Slam title. He came close to accomplishing that goal this past January at the Australian Open, but he lost to Carlos Alcaraz in the final.

If Djokovic wants to reach the Wimbledon final, he'll need to defeat Jannik Sinner in the semifinals on Friday.

Djokovic defeated Sinner in a five-set thriller when they met at the Australian Open earlier this year. However, the world No. 1 from Italy leads the head-to-head 6-5.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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