The number one seed Novak Djokovic had to battle hard against Italy’s young sensation Jannik Sinner as he won even after going two sets down in the quarterfinals of the ongoing Wimbledon 2022 at Centre Court on Tuesday. Sinner brought his best in the first two sets but could not continue the same run.

The Italian took the first two sets by 6-2, 7-6 to push the Serbian on the backfoot. Sinner broke Djokovic’s serve on four occasions in the first two sets and dominated the proceedings. However, Djokovic came back stronger to win the next three sets by 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.

Djokovic added it has been his pleasure to play at the iconic Centre Court and he fell in love with the game by watching Centre Court games.

“Happiness, love, fulfillment, pride, [I feel] everything on this court,” said Djokovic in his on-court interview, when asked about extending his winning streak. “I love it. I think the majority of the players would agree this is the biggest tennis tournament in the history of our game, so this court is the most important one, definitely in my career and my life.

“This court-inspired me to take the tennis racquet in my hand for the first time when I was five. Every single time I step on this court, the love affair keeps growing, so hopefully, I can maintain that run.”

Djokovic heaped praise on the 20-year-old youngster for playing a dominating game in the first two sets. The Serbian feels Sinner has a lot of time under his bag and he is going to get better with more experience.

“I must say huge congratulations for a big fight today to Jannik,” said Djokovic. “I’m sure there are going to be a lot of opportunities on the big stage. He is so mature for his age, he has been established now as a Top 10, Top 15 player for the past few years.

“He’s got plenty of time, it was unfortunate for him today but [he had] a very good tournament and I wish him the best of luck for the rest of the year.”

Novak Djokovic will face Cameron Norrie in the semifinal on Friday.