Novak Djokovic holds his trophy after winning the single's title at the Wimbledon Championships yesterday. Djokovic beat Roger Federer of Switzerland 7-6 (7/1), 6-7 (10/12), 6-4, 6-3.
Novak Djokovic yesterday dedicated his successful Wimbledon title defence to Boris Becker after matching his German coach’s haul of three victories at the All England Club.
In a fitting piece of symmetry, the world number one’s latest triumph came 30 years after Becker won the first of his Wimbledon titles. And the 28-year-old was quick to salute Becker’s contribution to his achievements since hiring the six-time major winner in December 2013.
“It’s definitely been a long run since we started working together,” Djokovic said.
“It took a while to understand each other. He is German, I’m Serbian, so there are a significant differences! We managed to find a common ground and the right chemistry. This is his trophy as much as mine.”
With three major titles since joining forces with Becker, the German’s impact can’t be denied, but Djokovic joked that his coach no longer had the bragging rights since they now have the same number of Wimbledon wins.
“No, he doesn’t,” Djokovic smiled. “I have to say thank you to him, my wife and all my team. We’ll have a glass of beer or a glass of wine tonight.”
Just 12 months after defeating Federer in five sets in the final, Djokovic was able to see off the seven-time winner in more emphatic fashion this time.
He never allowed Federer to display the majestic style that demolished Andy Murray in the semi-finals, but he was quick to praise the 17-time major winner for forcing him to raise his game.
“It is one of he biggest challenges I could ever have playing him on the grass here on Centre Court at Wimbledon,” Djokovic said.
“I was aware coming on the court that Roger was going to play at his best when it matters the most.
“He makes you push to your limit, work hard and earn every single point. That was my approach coming into the match. It added a bit more pressure.
“But you work all your life for these matches. You wake up every day working repetitively at time and you envision yourself playing in these matches.”