Djokovic Breaks Federers Wimbledon Record To Reach Quarters

The story

BBC Sport - Novak Djokovic claimed the all-time record for most men's singles match wins at Wimbledon, but had to overcome moments of visible frustration to beat qualifier Roman Safiullin and reach the quarter-finals.

Djokovic had matched Roger Federer's record with his third-round victory on Friday, and the 39-year-old earned his 106th win at SW19 by defeating the 132nd-ranked Safiullin 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 3-6 6-3 on Sunday.

Details

That is second only to the 120 wins achieved by nine-time women's champion Martina Navratilova.

The Serb beat Safiullin despite an apparent issue with his eyes early in the contest, while he later received a warning for an audible obscenity and was fortunate to avoid a penalty after firing a ball to the back of the opposite side of the court when he lost serve in the third set.

"Survive to thrive - that's how I feel," Djokovic said, reflecting on his performances in the first week.

Acknowledging his behaviour during the match, he added: "I'm known for my outbursts and meltdowns, I had a few of those today so I apologise.

"Our mind wanders all the time. It is very hard to keep it in the present moment. Whoever manages to do that is the winner."

Djokovic - who is bidding to match Federer's men's record of eight Wimbledon titles and claim an outright record 25th major title - was the overwhelming favourite against Safiullin, but found his latest test far from straightforward.

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