The men’s final is upon us at Wimbledon, and we couldn’t have asked for a better one. Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic is one of the greatest matchups in tennis. Federer is coming off a big win over Rafael Nadal, while Djokovic got through the very tricky Roberto Baustista Agut. Who will win this blockbuster matchup? Our writers–myself (Yesh Ginsburg), Jim Smith, Jack-Rossiter Munley, and Nurein Ahmed–offer their thoughts.
Wimbledon Men’s Final Prediction: Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic
Nurein:
It’s remarkable to witness just how Djokovic has been able to turn the tables in this rivalry over the years. Not only does he have a physical edge in this one, but he also possesses incredible mental strength as evidenced with his last three successive victories over Federer. As good as the Swiss has played this fortnight, this was always going to be the toughest hurdle and the Serbian World No.1 will be too good again.
Prediction: Djokovic in 4
Yesh:
The last two times this pair met in Wimbledon finals, Djokovic came out ahead. This year seems different, though. Federer looks in such good form. His serve is lethal, and his return is on point. He’s playing like it’s a decade ago. Djokovic is also playing well, but on grass I give Federer the tiny edge.
Prediction: Federer in 4
Jack:
Federer has never beaten Nadal and Djokovic in the same Grand Slam. He has also lost his last three matches against Djokovic, dating back to 2015. I still think he’ll win Sunday’s final. The way he beat Nadal in the semis was notable for how unfazed he appeared throughout the match. Not even a horror-show second set rattled him. In his three grand slam final defeats to Djokovic in 2014 and 2015 (two at Wimbledon and one at the US Open) Federer was red-lining his game. It looks to me, and Federer has said as much in press, that he feels so confident in his tennis he is not bothered by intermittent dips. That attitude as much as his sublime tennis will carry Federer to victory.
Prediction: Federer in 4
Jim:
This has the potential to be a great final between the two best grass-courters in the men’s game. But the matchup suits Djokovic, which is why Federer has won just three of their contests since 2015 and Djokovic eight, including two Wimbledon finals. His return can negate Federer’s biggest strength and the Swiss surely can’t live with him off the ground over five sets. Ultimately, if they both play their best, Djokovic will win. And when was the last time Djokovic didn’t play his best in a Grand Slam final?
Prediction: Djokovic in 4
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
