This victory marks Djokovic's 105th win at the grass court Grand Slam, equaling Federer's men's singles record. Martina Navratilova holds the all-time Wimbledon record with 120 women's singles match victories.

Facing Rinderknech, Djokovic started well, securing the first two sets 7-5, 6-4. Despite hitting 35 winners in those opening sets, Rinderknech still lost, prompting him to adjust his game. It was a match that highlighted the veteran's resilience and experience in high-pressure situations.

Novak Djokovic during his match against Arthur Rinderknech before winning in the third round of Wimbledon 2026 at Center Court, All England Club, London, England on 3/7. *Photo: Reuters*

Rinderknech's tactical change proved effective in the third set, a period when Djokovic faltered. The French player capitalized, breaking serve twice to lead 5-0 before winning the set 6-1.

Entering the fourth set, Rinderknech grew more confident, drawing Djokovic into extended rallies. However, in the tie-break, Nole displayed superior class and composure. The 24-time Grand Slam champion played almost flawlessly, serving well to close out the tie-break 7-4.

Djokovic admitted feeling more nervous than usual and struggling with his serve for much of the match, but he still found a way to win. After the match, the 39-year-old joked that there should be a match between him and Federer to decide the 106th win at Wimbledon.

In the fourth round, Djokovic will face Roman Safiullin, who defeated young talent Joao Fonseca 6-3, 6-3, 6-3. Safiullin has reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals before but has never beaten Djokovic in three previous encounters, failing to win a single set. This will be their first meeting on grass.

Meanwhile, defending champion Jannik Sinner also advanced. The world number one defeated Jenson Brooksby 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in two hours and 13 minutes, reaching the Wimbledon fourth round for the fifth consecutive season. Despite the straight-sets victory, Sinner showed some vulnerabilities, making 26 unforced errors and being broken when serving for the match in the eighth game of the third set.

Nonetheless, Sinner managed to secure the win by performing well at crucial moments. The world number one's next opponent is Shintaro Mochizuki. The Japanese player impressively defeated Rafael Jodar in four sets, 6-1, 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, in the third round.

Vy Anh