Novak Djokovic bounced back from a slow start against Alex de Minaur to secure his spot in his 16th quarter-final at Wimbledon, all while Roger Federer, an eight-time champion, looked on from the sidelines on Monday.
The Serbian player seemed sluggish and uncharacteristically hesitant at the start of his fourth-round match against the Australian 11th seed on Centre Court, but eventually regained his form, winning 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
This victory keeps the seven-time champion on course for a record-setting 25th Grand Slam title, which would represent the pinnacle of a remarkable career. Should he clinch the title on Sunday, the 38-year-old would match Federers record of eight mens championships at the All England Club .
The retired Swiss legend observed from the royal box as his long-standing rival faced his hardest challenge of the tournament to date.
Djokovic, seeded sixth, was broken in the opening game and lost two additional breaks as De Minaur dominated the first set. The Serb made 16 unforced errors, including four double faults in the first set alone.