Novak Djokovic ties Roger Federer's Wimbledon record as he advances to last 16

Novak Djokovic is through to the Round of 16 at Wimbledon 2026 as he defeated Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech on Friday in a thrilling match at the Centre Court.

Djokovic was stretched into four sets as Rinderknech refused to bow down without a fight. Ultimately, the 24-time Grand Slam champion showed his class and clinched the match 7-5 6-4 1-6 7-6(4) to make it to the last 16 one more time.

Djokovic matches Federer

With his win on Friday evening, the 39-year-old Djokovic drew level with Roger Federer to become the player with most men's singles win at the All England Club. The victory against Rinderknech was Djokovic's 105th on the grass in London, helping him tie the all-time men's record. However, the former World No.1 still remains short of Martina Navratilova (120) who is the only player to have won more singles matches at Wimbledon than Djokovic and Federer.

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Djokovic also matched Federer's record for most appearances in the last 16 of the men's singles at Wimbledon in the Open era, making the fourth round for the 18th time. The Serb legend is only the fourth man in the Open era to make it to the last 16 at Wimbledon aged 39 or older. Before him only Federer, Pancho Gonzales and Ken Rosewall had achieved the feat.

"To be able to make history of this sport is a huge honour and privilege, especially here," Djokovic said after the match.

"It's always been a dream tournament for me here. I propose a match-up between Roger and me for 106, let's stop it here and call Roger to come!" he joked.

Djokovic entered Wimbledon 2026 eyeing to match the record of Federer of most titles in London's grass. Djokovic is currently one behind the Swiss legend's record of 8 championships at Wimbledon. The former World No.1 is also looking to break his tie with Margaret Cour and become the most decorated Grand Slam champion with 25 Majors to his name.