Roger Federer has admitted that he wants Novak Djokovic to go on and break his record of eight Wimbledon titles with the Serbian icon just one win away from matching the achievement.
The Swiss tennis legend brought his career to an emotional end in 2022 at the Laver Cup.
He famously wept in his chair while holding hands with long-time rival Nadal with both Murray and Djokovic also in attendance.
At the time of Federer’s retirement, Djokovic and Nadal had both moved clear of him in the list for all-time Grand Slam titles.
Roger Federer wants Novak Djokovic to break his record
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Djokovic has since moved even further clear with 24 Grand Slams, putting him level with Australian Margaret Court.
The Serb has also dominated Wimbledon for the past decade, racking up seven titles at SW19.
He saw his 10-year Centre Court unbeaten run come to an end last year in an epic final against Carlos Alcaraz.
But Djokovic is back at Wimbledon this year with the hope of avenging last year’s defeat to the world No 3.
He recently underwent knee surgery after suffering an injury at the French Open and made a winning return to Centre Court on Tuesday against Vit Kopriva.
If Djokovic goes on to clinch another Wimbledon crown, he’ll equal Federer’s record of eight titles at the British slam.
And Federer has no issues whatsoever if Djokovic ends up going on to take the record away from him.
While speaking on comedian Trevor Noah’s ‘ What Now?’ podcast, Federer looked back on his rivalry with the other members of the ‘Big Four’.
Roger Federer won eight Wimbledon titles in his career
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He recalled the moment on court at The 02 in 2022 when he was brought to tears alongside Nadal during a montage of his career and also had a special message for both Nadal and Murray.
“There was this moment when we could take it all in, our careers were flashing in front of our eyes, especially for them who are still going,” Federer said.
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Novak Djokovic is gunning to win his eighth Wimbledon title
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“They’re like, ‘We are so fortunate that were are living as a tennis player. Fortunate to still be going.’
“Hopefully, Novak can go and crush every record, Murray can play as long as his hip allows and he still has the hunger, and Rafa knew that he was in a tough spot as well.
“He hopes he can win as much as possible.”
