Novak Djokovic Reflects on the ‘Most Nerve-Racking’ Match of His Illustrious Career
Novak Djokovic, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has played hundreds of high-stakes matches throughout his extraordinary career. With 25 Grand Slam titles, countless Masters 1000 trophies, and an Olympic gold medal, he has faced intense pressure on the world’s biggest stages. However, in a recent interview, Djokovic revealed the match that he considers the “most nerve-racking” of his career—and his answer might surprise fans.
While many might assume his most stressful moments came during his epic clashes with rivals like Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer, Djokovic singled out his 2019 Wimbledon final against Federer as the most emotionally taxing contest of his life. That match, hailed as one of the greatest in tennis history, was a rollercoaster of tension, drama, and resilience.
The Stage Was Set: Wimbledon 2019 Final
The 2019 Wimbledon final was already historic before the first ball was struck. Federer was chasing his ninth Wimbledon title, seeking to extend his record as the oldest Grand Slam champion in the Open Era. Djokovic, on the other hand, aimed to further cement his legacy, looking to capture his fifth Wimbledon crown and close the gap in the Grand Slam race.
The match itself turned into a marathon battle of nerves, lasting nearly five hours and becoming the longest final in Wimbledon history. Djokovic eventually triumphed 7-6(5), 1-6, 7-6(4), 4-6, 13-12(3) in a contest that will forever be etched in tennis folklore.
What Made It So Nerve-Racking?
Reflecting on the match, Djokovic explained why it stood out as the most nerve-wracking experience of his career.
“I have played many finals, many deciding matches, but that one was different,” he said.
“Facing Federer at Wimbledon, with the majority of the crowd against me, was emotionally draining. Every point felt like it could determine the outcome of the match.”
The atmosphere at Centre Court was electric, with fans overwhelmingly supporting Federer. Djokovic has often admitted that playing against a partisan crowd is one of the toughest challenges he faces, and this match was no exception. The pressure was compounded by the stakes: Federer held two championship points at 8-7 in the fifth set, standing on the brink of victory.
“In that moment, I had to shut everything out—the crowd, the noise, even my own thoughts,” Djokovic shared.
“It was about staying present, focusing on the next point, and believing that I could turn it around.”
The Turning Point
One of the defining moments of the match—and arguably of Djokovic’s career—came when he saved those two championship points. On Federer’s serve, Djokovic produced a miraculous forehand return and then forced the Swiss legend into an error. Those moments encapsulated Djokovic’s unmatched mental fortitude, a hallmark of his game.
“Saving those match points was like surviving an emotional hurricane,” Djokovic said.
“It could have gone either way, but I refused to let go. That was the key—to stay stubborn, to keep fighting.”
The Final Set Drama
As the match extended into a deciding set that used the new tie-break rule at 12-12, Djokovic’s nerves were pushed to their limits. The weight of history hung in the balance, with both players refusing to give an inch.
“That fifth set felt like an eternity,” Djokovic recalled.
“Every game, every point, every serve carried so much pressure. By the time we reached the tie-break, I was running on pure adrenaline.”
In the tie-break, Djokovic’s precision and mental clarity prevailed. He seized control early and never looked back, closing out the match with a trademark backhand winner.
The Aftermath
As Djokovic collapsed to the ground in victory, the magnitude of his achievement began to sink in. Not only had he defeated Federer in his own backyard, but he had also done so under extraordinary circumstances.
“Winning that match was a mixture of relief, joy, and exhaustion,” Djokovic admitted.
“It wasn’t just a physical battle but an emotional and mental war. I’ve never felt anything like it before or since.”
The victory had far-reaching implications for Djokovic’s career. It marked his 16th Grand Slam title and brought him closer to Federer and Nadal in the Grand Slam race. It also solidified his reputation as the ultimate big-match player, someone who thrives under the most extreme pressure.
Why This Match Stands Out
For Djokovic, the 2019 Wimbledon final represents the essence of his career. It was a match that tested every aspect of his game—technical skill, physical endurance, and mental toughness.
“This match taught me a lot about myself,” he reflected.
“It showed me that I can overcome anything if I stay focused and believe in my abilities.”
The win also highlighted Djokovic’s ability to perform in hostile environments. Despite being outnumbered by Federer’s fans, he found a way to draw strength from within.
“I’ve always said that the crowd’s energy, whether positive or negative, fuels me. That day, I used their cheers for Roger as motivation to prove myself.”
A Career Defined by Resilience
The 2019 Wimbledon final is just one chapter in Djokovic’s incredible journey, but it epitomizes what makes him a legend. From his early struggles with injuries and self-doubt to his dominance in an era filled with all-time greats, Djokovic has consistently demonstrated an unyielding spirit.
Even now, as he continues to chase history, Djokovic looks back on that match as a defining moment.
“Whenever I face tough situations, I think about that final. It reminds me of what I’m capable of and why I play this sport,” he said.
Conclusion
Novak Djokovic’s career is filled with unforgettable matches, but the 2019 Wimbledon final holds a special place in his heart. It was a contest that tested his limits and reaffirmed his status as one of the most mentally resilient athletes in sports history.
For fans and pundits alike, it stands as a testament to Djokovic’s greatness—a reminder that in the face of insurmountable odds, he can find a way to emerge victorious. And for Djokovic himself, it remains a source of pride and inspiration, a match that perfectly encapsulates the essence of his remarkable legacy.