Novak Djokovic advanced to the quarterfinals of Wimbledon for the 17th time in his career after beating qualifier Roman Safiullin.
The Serb, in pursuit of a 25th major title, beat Safiullin in four sets during the day session on Centre Court, 7-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
Djokovic surpassed Roger Federer for the most wins in Wimbledon men’s singles history, with a tally of 106 and counting.
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While yet to taste defeat, the 39-year-old has been tested at the Championships, having dropped three sets across his opening four matches.
Safiullin took the third set in their match and caused his conqueror plenty of problems, which Djokovic touched on when facing the media.
Novak Djokovic reacts after reaching the Wimbledon quarterfinals
In his post-match press conference, Djokovic said: “To be honest, haven’t felt really great on the court, so I was just relieved to get out of it and get a win.
“Satisfaction and enjoyment was not part of today’s win, to be honest. Of course, I’m relieved and happy to win it, but I haven’t enjoyed. Hopefully next match will be better in that sense.”
Asked if he did not feel great physically, Djokovic replied: “No, not physical. “Just, I think, the game.
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“Physical was kind of okay. Just game-wise, I didn’t enjoy my tennis. It’s also due to him putting a lot of pressure on me, playing well.
“I kind of struggled to find the game, desired level in the game that I’m looking for that I had, I think, in the second round particularly.
“But a win is a win, even if you win ugly. Hopefully I can build from this.”
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Djokovic added: “I’ve been fortunate to play many matches on the highest stage of Grand Slams. My memory is not really good these days. I’m trying to think about what Grand Slams I had similar experience and then ended up winning.
“I mean, there’s been definitely more than few where you go through a difficult match or two at least on your path to win a championship.
“Of course, I’m a perfectionist at core. I always want the best game, the best performance for myself and for others and for the crowd. It’s not always possible, and sometimes it’s hard for me to accept that and deal with it.
“It’s always kind of like that fresh off the court. Need to just move on and obviously learn and be better next time.”
A Wimbledon title for Djokovic would see him surpass Margaret Court for the most major crowns of any man or woman in tennis history, with both currently on 24.
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