As the last active member of the “Big Three,” Novak Djokovic continues to rewrite the tennis record books. The 38-year-old Serbian superstar remains firmly in the hunt for an eighth Wimbledon title. He’ll face Alex de Minaur on Monday in the round of 16. Djokovic’s victory over countryman Miomir Kecmanovic, a dominant 6-3, 6-0, 6-4 performance, showcased the elite level he still brings to the court. Though he dropped a tiebreak to Alexandre Muller earlier in the week, Djokovic closed out that match in four sets and also cruised past Dan Evans in front of a home crowd in round two.
The long-time World No. 1 continues to build his case as the greatest player of all time. At the same age Rafael Nadal retired (38), and three years younger than Roger Federer was at retirement (41), Djokovic’s Wimbledon résumé stands out. From 2018 through 2024, he reached at least the final every year, capturing four titles during that span. His 100 career match wins at Wimbledon trails only Federer (105) and legendary women’s champion Martina Navratilova (120).
Djokovic now joins Federer as the only male player to win 100 or more matches at two Grand Slams, having notched his 101st French Open victory during his run to the 2025 semifinals. He’s also just one match shy of 100 at the Australian Open and sits on 90 wins at the US Open—potentially making him the first player ever to reach 100 wins at all four majors.
It’s worth noting that Djokovic turned pro nearly three years before reaching his first Grand Slam final. It took him six full seasons to reach his first Wimbledon final—eventually winning his maiden title there in 2011, which was also his third career Slam overall.
While Federer reached 100 match wins at both Wimbledon and the Australian Open, Nadal hit that milestone only at the French Open, where he’s the undisputed King of Clay. The only other man to come close is Jimmy Connors, who tallied 98 match wins at the US Open. Among the women, several legends hit similar benchmarks: Serena Williams won 108 matches at the US Open and 98 at Wimbledon; Chris Evert had 101 at the US Open and 96 at Wimbledon; Venus Williams reached 90 wins at Wimbledon.
The consistency, resilience, talent, and mental strength required to win so many matches, in best-of-five-set formats and under immense pressure, are staggering. These are the results that separate the true legends of the game without a debate.
If Djokovic stays healthy and active for another season or two, he could become the only player, male or female, to record 100 match wins at all four Grand Slams. Late in his career and finally receiving long-overdue recognition, Djokovic now stands alone. Once overlooked, he has earned his place atop the sport as he faces off against the next generation, primarily Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who are on course to challenge his legacy, if they can match his longevity.
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
