Djokovic and Cobolli will face off at 9:30 PM Hanoi time today, 9/7.
From Roland Garros to Wimbledon, as well as many other ATP Tour tournaments in recent seasons, Djokovic has frequently chosen Cobolli as a practice partner. Consequently, they are quite familiar with each other's game, although Djokovic has only officially played against Cobolli once. That match took place at the Shanghai Masters last year, resulting in a straight-sets victory for Djokovic.
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Djokovic (left) shakes hands with Cobolli after their match in Shanghai, China in October of last year. Photo: Reuters |
Djokovic (left) shakes hands with Cobolli after their match in Shanghai, China in October of last year. Photo: Reuters
Cobolli's familiarity with Djokovic's playing style and shots will make the Serbian star even more cautious, especially after his less-than-convincing performance against Alex de Minaur. In the fourth round, Djokovic lacked rhythm in the first set and then trailed 4-1 in the fourth. However, his superior skill allowed the world number six to recover and secure a comeback victory.
Despite facing difficulties in the previous round, Djokovic has generally improved his form with each match, highlighted by his 6-0 sets against Daniel Evans and Miomir Kecmanovic. This momentum is crucial for Djokovic as he aims to end his Grand Slam title drought, which has stretched since the 2023 US Open. A Wimbledon title this week would also tie him with Roger Federer's record of eight championships at the All England Club.
When it comes to reaching the most Grand Slam quarterfinals, no one can match Djokovic. In the 79 majors he has participated in, Djokovic has reached the quarterfinals 63 times. In completed matches at this stage, his record stands at 49-10.
At Wimbledon specifically, Djokovic has lost only twice in 15 quarterfinal appearances. The Serbian player is even harder to beat against opponents ranked in the middle of the ATP rankings. At the All England Club, Djokovic has only lost four times to players outside the world's top 20 in 78 matches. The last time this happened was in 2016 when he lost to Sam Querrey.
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Djokovic hits a forehand during the Wimbledon fourth round on Centre Court at the All England Club, London, England on 7/7. Photo: Reuters |
Djokovic hits a forehand during the Wimbledon fourth round on Centre Court at the All England Club, London, England on 7/7. Photo: Reuters
This doesn't mean that Cobolli, ranked 24th in the world, has no chance. He is playing at a high level that has surprised the tennis world. Just a few months ago, Cobolli was enduring a disastrous season, failing to win a single match until April. Since then, the Italian player has transformed his game. He won two clay-court tournaments in Romania and Germany, reached his first Grand Slam quarterfinal, and is guaranteed a spot in the top 20 when Wimbledon concludes.
It's only July, but it's safe to say 2025 has been Cobolli's best season so far. Things would be even better if the 23-year-old could break his losing streak against top 10 players (11 losses).
Vy Anh
