Djokovic defeats Rinderknech in four-set thriller at Wimbledon
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 3, 2026, 5:22 PM
Last updated Jul 3, 2026
Novak Djokovic triumphed over Arthur Rinderknech with a scoreline of 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4) in a demanding match at Wimbledon on July 3, 2026. Djokovic showcased his skill and resilience, especially in the final moments where a dramatic diving backhand lob volley sealed the victory. Rinderknech, despite his underwhelming grass court record, pushed Djokovic to his limits with powerful serves and effective play. The match, drawing an engaged crowd of 15,000 on Centre Court, illustrates the competitiveness of the tournament early in the week.
- •Match concluded with Djokovic winning in four sets
- •Final score was 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4)
- •Djokovic displayed skill at crucial matchpoints
- •Rinderknech challenged Djokovic with strong serving
- •15,000 fans witnessed a thrilling contest on Centre Court
- 5:22 PMThe Guardian Sport — Relieved Djokovic finds a way to battle past Rinderknech and keep quest for 25 alive
"Serb wins 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4) ‘It took a bit of luck and skill in the end’ In the dying embers of this pulsating match, Novak Djokovic morphed into a young Boris Becker, flying through the air to hit a diving backhand lob volley at matchpoint. At this point his opponent, Arthur Rinderknech, was also on the floor after slipping at the net. And Centre Court? All 15,000 of them on their feet. And no wonder. Because this was a first-week mini-classic. There was little in Rinderknech’s grass court record of 15 wins and 18 defeats to suggest he could put the greatest player in history through the ringer, save for his victory over Alexander Zverev at last year’s Wimbledon. Yet his 6ft 5in frame, booming serve, and surprisingly soft hands, gave Djokovic all he could handle. Continue reading...
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