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Novak Djokovic reveals what Roger Federer said to him when they met after he beat Alex de Minaur at Wimbledon

Photo by Andy Cheung/Getty Images
Photo by Andy Cheung/Getty Images
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Novak Djokovic secured his spot in the Wimbledon quarter-finals today, watched on by one of his greatest-ever rivals, Roger Federer.

The Swiss superstar is the greatest male champion in the tournament’s history, and so is revered by the fans.

Therefore, whenever he makes an appearance in the royal box, his presence arguably overshadows the tennis.

Novak Djokovic knew that was certainly the case, as he thanked his great rival for showing up on a day when he actually won for a change.

He then revealed the conversation they shared afterwards to reporters.

What Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer spoke about at Wimbledon

Chatting in his post-match press conference, naturally, Djokovic had to be asked about Roger Federer’s presence.

And, the Serbian actually revealed that they managed to enjoy a small catch-up after his win over De Minaur.

He expanded: ‘We did catch up very shortly… we greeted each other. He congratulated me and said it was a great match. That’s all. It was a very short greeting, but it was really nice to have him around.

‘Obviously, he’s one of the greatest legends of our game in the history of tennis. It’s always extra special when he’s on the stands. I’m glad to break the curse and win in front of him. It’s a big relief.’

Djokovic spoke about his fitness after the match too, as many speculated he could have been injured in an effort to explain his really poor start.

Novak Djokovic hoping to equal Roger Federer’s Wimbledon record

It’s a strange dynamic between Federer and Djokovic, given that the latter is still playing, desperately trying to overcome the former’s lasting legacy.

This Wimbledon represents arguably his best opportunity at that record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, which would in turn move him level with the 42-year-old for titles won at the All-England Club too.

At this point, the Serbian will likely not care where his next major comes from, just so long as it does arrive.

Roger Federer looks on from the royal box
Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images

But were it to be at Wimbledon, it might be even sweeter, as he would further cement his status as the greatest of all time.

There is obviously an overwhelming mutual respect between this duo and Rafael Nadal, but Federer will likely be a little worried at the prospect of losing his title as the standalone greatest male player in Wimbledon’s illustrious history.