Djokovic Breaks Federer’s Wimbledon Record to Reach Quarters

Novak Djokovic claimed the all-time record for most men’s singles match wins at Wimbledon, but had to overcome moments of visible frustration to beat qualifier Roman Safiullin and reach the quarter-finals.
Djokovic had matched Roger Federer’s record with his third-round victory on Friday, and the 39-year-old earned his 106th win at SW19 by defeating the 132nd-ranked Safiullin 7-6 (8-6), 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 on Sunday.
That is second only to the 120 wins achieved by nine-time women’s champion Martina Navratilova.
The Serb beat Safiullin despite an apparent issue with his eyes early in the contest, while he later received a warning for an audible obscenity and was fortunate to avoid a penalty after firing a ball to the back of the opposite side of the court when he lost serve in the third set.
“Survive to thrive – that’s how I feel,” Djokovic said, reflecting on his performances in the first week.
“Hopefully the thriving part is coming!”
Acknowledging his behaviour during the match, he added: “I’m known for my outbursts and meltdowns, I had a few of those today so I apologise.
“Our mind wanders all the time. It is very hard to keep it in the present moment. Whoever manages to do that is the winner.”
Djokovic – who is bidding to match Federer’s men’s record of eight Wimbledon titles and claim an outright record 25th major title – was the overwhelming favourite against Safiullin, but found his latest test far from straightforward.