Novak Djokovic defeats Lorenzo Musetti to set up rematch with Carlos Alcaraz in Wimbledon final
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Updated 12/07/2024 at 20:44 GMT+1
Novak Djokovic comprehensively outplayed Lorenzo Musetti in their semi-final at Wimbledon on Friday. The second seed rarely looked in any trouble as he overcame the Italian to set up another showdown with Carlos Alcaraz in the final at the All England Club on Sunday. Musetti, the 25th seed, battled hard but was unable to match his opponent in the key moments on Centre Court.
Wimbledon Day 10 highlights - Djokovic gets walkover, Musetti, Krejcikova and Rybakina all prevail
Video credit: SNTV
In a repeat of last year's Wimbledon final, Novak Djokovic will be out for revenge against Carlos Alcaraz after the Serbian defeated Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets in their last-four clash.
Djokovic came into the tournament with his fitness in doubt following knee surgery, but he looked incredibly sharp once more as he powered past the Italian with ease, 6-4 7-6(2) 6-4, to secure his place in Sunday's showpiece.
Musetti has enjoyed a sparkling run to the last four at the All England Club, but the 22-year-old was simply no match for the second seed, who sealed victory in two hours and 48 minutes.
The opening set contained no fewer than three breaks of serve as both players struggled to find their rhythm early on. Djokovic seized two of his four opportunities to break as he found the extra gear he needed.
There was nothing between the pair in the second set, but the world No. 2 once again stepped it up when it mattered, winning the tie-break with ease.
An early break of serve followed in the third set as Musetti fell further behind, and he was unable to force his way back into the match thereafter.
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After reaching his 37th Grand Slam final, the 37-year-old said: "I have said it many times Wimbledon has been a childhood dream for me to play it and to win it.
"It is worth repeating I was a seven-year-old boy watching the bombs fly over my head and dreaming of being on the most important court in the world which is here in Wimbledon.
"I was constructing Wimbledon trophies out of any material in the room.
"I have the tremendous support from my family and my wife has been with me for many years and my children too – it has been an incredible journey."
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Novak Djokovic celebrates winning match point with a violin gesture on day 12 of The Championships Wimbledon 2024 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 12, 2024 in London, England
Image credit: Getty Images
Djokovic, who pulled out his violin celebration for the second match in a row, added: "I try not to take it for granted every time I find myself on this unique court. Obviously, during the match it is business time and trying to do your work and I try outplay my opponent.
"I am satisfied and pleased, but I don’t want to stop here – hopefully I get my hands on the trophy."
Djokovic will have to further raise his level against Alcaraz to secure revenge for last year's defeat in the final.
He will be aiming to seal an eighth Wimbledon crown to draw level with Roger Federer's tally and take him to his 25th Grand Slam title.
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Stream daily highlights from Wimbledon at 10pm UK time, as well as the two singles finals live on July 13 and 14, on discovery+
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