Novak Djokovic isn't hiding his ambitions; he is playing for history. At 36, the Serbian legend is poised to make another mark on the sport at the prestigious All England Lawn & Tennis Club, with the tournament kicking off on July 3. Following his recent victory at Roland-Garros, Djokovic now sits at 23 Grand Slam titles, tying Serena Williams for the most in the Open Era. A win at Wimbledon would make him the sole leader of the modern era and bring him level with the all-time record.
The Serbian star Novak Djokovic has made his intentions clear and he is playing for the record books. The 36-year-old Serbian legend has an excellent opportunity to write more tennis history at Wimbledon, beginning on July 3 (Monday), the sport’s historic grass-court major held on the grounds of the All England Lawn & Tennis Club. Djokovic won his 23rd Grand Slam earlier this month at Roland-Garros, equaling Serena Williams at that mark, an Open Era (since 1968) record. A 24th would give him the lead in modern times and also tie the all-time record.
Carlos Alcaraz looks like the primary threat to Djokovic's dominance. The rising Spanish star climbed back to world No. 1 last weekend after winning his first-ever grass title at Queen’s Club. Beyond Alcaraz, several other heavy hitters are in the mix, most notably Daniil Medvedev, Casper Ruud, and 2022 runner-up Nick Kyrgios.
In the women's game, world No. 1 Iga Swiatek enters the tournament with momentum after claiming her fourth major and third Paris crown since 2020. However, Wimbledon has been a hurdle for the Polish star, who has a modest 5-3 record here and has yet to reach a quarter-final. She will be challenged by 2022 champion Elena Rybakina, who hopes to rediscover her grass-court form, and Australian Open winner Aryna Sabalenka, completing the trio often referred to as the WTA's 'Big 3.'
While Rafael Nadal, with his 23 titles, remains sidelined until 2024, fans will still see former Wimbledon champions Andy Murray and Venus Williams competing in the singles draw.
Alcaraz entered the tournament with a confidence boost after regaining the No. 1 ranking, but Djokovic remains the clear favorite. The Serbian has been nearly untouchable at Wimbledon, winning 28 straight matches since 2017 and maintaining a staggering 86-10 overall record. After his Paris win, Djokovic noted that he is focused on creating his own legacy rather than comparing himself to the likes of Nadal or Roger Federer.
Last year, Jannik Sinner pushed Djokovic to a deciding fifth set, but he hasn't looked quite as sharp recently. Similarly, former finalists Nick Kyrgios (2022) and Matteo Berrettini (2021) have both been hampered by injuries, leaving them below their peak form.
Keep a close eye on Alcaraz as he builds momentum throughout the tournament. Other players to watch include Stefanos Tsitsipas and Holger Rune, as well as the wildcard Alexander Bublik, who comes in hot after his win in Halle last week.