Djoković: "Federer's record is quite insignificant to me"

Novak Djokovic defeated Roman Safiullin 3–1 in sets and will now have two days to prepare for his next challenge.

“I spend much more time recovering now than ever before, that’s what my body requires. I don’t really enjoy it; it takes a lot of time, but it’s part of the process and adapting to an older body in recent years. Throughout my career I’ve always looked for the best technology: hyperbaric chambers, infrared therapy, ice baths… There are many things I’ve used, and many I still use today,” said Novak Djoković.

“Physically I’m OK, but I didn’t enjoy my game. He pressured me and played well. I struggled to find the level I had, especially in the second set. A win is a win, even if you win ugly.”

Novak Djokovic has surpassed Roger Federer in Wimbledon match wins, reaching 106 victories at the tournament.

“I don’t have it as a priority to equal Federer’s record here. It’s quite insignificant to me; I didn’t even know about it until the previous match,” said Novak Djoković.

He also addressed his emotional reactions on court:

“I’m not proud of it; it’s not something I want, but when it happens—it happens. I don’t think about it too much afterward; I move on to the next task.”

Reflecting on his long career, he added:

“I’ve played many matches on the biggest stage, but my memory isn’t the best these days. There have been many Slams where I had a tough match or two on the way to the title… I’m a perfectionist, I always want to play my best for myself and the crowd, but that’s not always possible, and sometimes it’s hard to accept. I need to move on and be better next time.”

Novak Djoković will face the winner of the match between Felix Auger-Aliassime and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the quarterfinals.