Djokovic beats Musetti, Sets Up Wimbledon Final Showdown with Alcaraz

Seven-time champion Novak Djokovic showcased his best tennis on Friday, defeating Italy’s 25th seed Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 7-6(2), 6-4 to reach his 10th Wimbledon final. He will face reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s final.

This Sunday’s showdown will be the first time since 2014-15 that the same two players contest the Wimbledon final in consecutive years, reminiscent of Djokovic’s clashes with Roger Federer.

Reflecting on his journey, Djokovic told the Centre Court crowd, “Playing and winning at Wimbledon has always been a childhood dream. As a seven-year-old, I watched bombs fly over my head and dreamt of playing on the most important court in the world. I made Wimbledon trophies out of anything I could find. It’s been an incredible journey, and I try to appreciate every moment on this court.”

Despite his focus during matches, Djokovic emphasized his ambition, saying, “It’s business time during the match. I’m pleased with my performance, but I don’t want to stop here. I hope to get my hands on the trophy.”

Djokovic’s victory came after Alcaraz’s earlier win over fifth seed Daniil Medvedev, with the crowd still filling the arena. The Serbian broke Musetti’s serve after a thrilling 26-shot rally in the sixth game of the first set.

Although Djokovic had expressed frustration with the Centre Court crowd after his fourth-round win over Holger Rune, he engaged more positively with fans on Friday, even as they occasionally booed him. Musetti briefly rallied, breaking back to make it 4-5 with a fierce forehand, but Djokovic won the first set after a shaky service game from Musetti.

Musetti took an early lead in the second set with a stunning backhand pass for a 3-1 advantage. However, Djokovic remained composed, clawing back to win the tiebreaker and secure the set.

In the third set, Djokovic broke Musetti’s serve in the opening game with a backhand crosscourt winner, then mixed up his tactics with serve-and-volley plays to keep Musetti off balance. Despite a late comeback attempt by Musetti, Djokovic saved a break point and clinched the match on his fourth match point when Musetti sent a shot long.

Djokovic celebrated by mimicking playing the violin with his racket, a nod to his daughter who is learning the instrument, although it drew more boos from the crowd.

Despite being considered the pantomime villain, Djokovic is focused on winning his eighth Wimbledon title, a record in men’s tennis. His participation had been uncertain due to knee surgery just five weeks prior.

“I came to London eight days before the tournament unsure if I would be able to play,” Djokovic said. “I kept my options open until the draw. Playing practice sets with top players showed me I was in good enough shape to not just compete but to go deep into the tournament. Thanks to my team for their support.”

Musetti, who had taken Djokovic to five sets at Roland Garros last month, acknowledged Djokovic’s dominant performance. “This was the seventh time we’ve played, and I’ve never faced a Djokovic like this,” Musetti said. “His game fits perfectly on this surface, especially his returns. It was like a joke how well he was returning today. He deserved to win.”