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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Katy Murrells (later) and Yara El-Shaboury (earlier)

Wimbledon semi-finals: Djokovic and Alcaraz set up rematch in final – as it happened

Carlos Alcaraz Daniil Medvedev Wimbledon SW19 Lorenzo Musetti Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic of Serbia.
Novak Djokovic is into a 10th Wimbledon final. Photograph: Tolga Akmen/EPA

So after a year in which he’s won no titles, reached no finals (up until now), split with his coach Goran Ivanisevic, lost to countless lower-ranked players and had knee surgery (just a month ago), Djokovic has confounded logic once again and we’ve got ourselves a repeat of last year’s Wimbledon final. The 37-year-old now just needs to defy time against the 21-year-old Alcaraz on Sunday and he’ll be the outright GOAT in tennis with 25 grand slam singles titles. Thanks for reading, do join us tomorrow for the women’s final and then on Sunday for the men’s. Bye!

And what of facing Alcaraz?

He’s a great example of a young player who has a well-balanced life on and off the court. Lots of charisma, that’s why people like him, he’s one of the greatest 21-year-olds we’ve ever seen in this sport. He’s going to win many more grand slams, but hopefully in two days not this one, maybe in 15 years when I retire. I’m joking. Jokes aside, he beat me in a thrilling five-setter last year. It’s going to take the best of my abilities to beat him on Sunday.

And then the on-court interviewer Lee McKenzie totally lets Djokovic off the hook by asking him absolutely nothing about the crowd. Boooooo!

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It’s also his 37th major final and his 10th at Wimbledon. So how does that feel, Novak?

Wimbledon has always been a childhood dream for me. I’ve said this story many times, but it’s worth repeating. I was a seven-year-old boy in Serbia, watching the bombs flying over my head, and telling myself I’d be a Wimbledon champion one day.

Every single time I find myself on this unique court I really try to enjoy it, but it’s business time during the match. I’m very satisfied to be in another final, but I don’t want to stop here. Hopefully I’ll get my hands on the trophy on Sunday.

There was plenty of doubt [after his knee surgery last month]. I said before the tournament, if I didn’t feel I could go deep, I probably wouldn’t be playing. I’m very pleased and thankful to all my team members for helping me to arrive to where I am.

Djokovic defeats Musetti 6-4, 7-6, 6-4

Djokovic, though, does now have the match on his racket as he steps up to serve. Musetti, buoyed by that escape from defeat in the previous game, comes out swinging on the first point. 0-15. 0-30, when Djokovic prods a forehand long! Seven straight points for the Italian. “LO-REN-ZO, LO-REN-ZO, LO-REN-ZO” rings around Centre Court. Djokovic will be offended. Maybe that’s the fuel he needs to get the job done. Soon it’s 30-all. But then Musetti makes a breathtaking return – probably his best of the day! Break point. Djokovic is hitting volley after volley, then he’s chasing the lob, Musetti has all the initiative … but he nets! Deuce. Advantage Djokovic. Match point No 4. And Musetti makes the mistake! And Djokovic has set up a repeat of last year’s final against Alcaraz!

As he has done after every victory this fortnight, Djokovic pretends he’s playing the violin with his racket, in tribute to his daughter, who’s learning the instrument. But maybe the crowd think he’s goading them, because now they ARE booing. But nevertheless it’s been a goooooooooood! day for the seven-times champion – he’s one win from a record 25th grand slam singles title and matching Federer’s feat of eight Wimbledon crowns. Musetti, meanwhile, departs to a outstanding ovation; Italy won’t have a player in the men’s final but they do still have Jasmine Paolini in the women’s tomorrow.

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Third set: Musetti 4-6, 6-7, 4-5 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

0-15. A shanked forehand and it’s 0-30. Djokovic returns a strong serve with interest – I’m not sure Musetti was expecting that to come back – and Djokovic goes on to take the point. 0-40, three match points. Musetti repels the first two. And Djokovic is laughing and giving himself a good talking to when his return zips long on the third! Three match points saved – and now here’s a game point – as Musetti wins the exchange when someone in the crowd calls out just as Djokovic is about to hit the ball. Djokovic glares at the offender. And Musetti holds!

Third set: Musetti* 4-6, 6-7, 3-5 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Musetti gets a glimmer at 0-15, but Djokovic extinguishes that with two huge serves. Djokovic has frequently served his way out of trouble today. And he’s going to have to do so again when his forehand skids wide for 30-all. He follows the script to make it 40-30 and then game. Musetti will serve to stay in this semi-final.

Third set: Musetti 4-6, 6-7, 3-4 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

A few years ago, before Alcaraz and Sinner made their breakthroughs, Musetti’s name was mentioned alongside theirs, but Tumaini, our tennis correspondent, says it’s largely the mental side that has prevented Musetti from making the strides forward that they have. I’m impressed by the way he isn’t falling away here; it would be easy to surrender knowing you’re two sets down to Djokovic. A hold to 15 and he is, at least, just about staying in touch if Djokovic does blink.

Third set: Musetti 4-6, 6-7, 2-3 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

A delay on the opening point because Hawk-Eye is malfunctioning. The umpire is on her phone trying to confirm the call. She summons the players forward and says that Djokovic’s return was out. The biggest boo of the day then follows – and it’s for the umpire not Djokovic – as she informs the crowd that they can’t show it on the screen. So it’s 15-0, then 30-0. And 40-0. Djokovic’s volley halts Musetti’s run of points and then Djokovic treats a Musetti second serve with absolute disdain. 40-30. Musetti makes it through from there.

Third set: Musetti* 4-6, 6-7, 1-3 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

McEnroe reckons Musetti has “got all the shots” to break into the world’s top 10 (the 22-year-old Italian is currently ranked 25) but needs to work on his serve – and a more aggressive return. Too often Musetti is looking to block and chip on the return; but he isn’t even needing to do that in this game because here are two Djokovic doubles. 30-all. Djokovic then finds his range and it’s 40-30. And a serve-volley seals the game.

Third set: Musetti 4-6, 6-7, 1-2 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

On the subject of Djokovic being the anti-hero, this is a good read. Musetti holds to 30, they’re about to sit down at the changeover, so you’ve maybe got enough time to get through it.

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Third set: Musetti* 4-6, 6-7, 0-2 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

A second Djokovic double fault for the match followed by a sixth ace and it’s 40-30. Game, when Djokovic dupes Musetti with a backhand angled drop shot! Djokovic is cruising now, at two sets to love and 2-0 up, and he’s not even needed to pick a fight with anyone, rage against the crowd or feed off any perceived injustices to get this far.

Djokovic breaks: Musetti 4-6, 6-7, 0-1 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

Musetti looks a little deflated here. And no surprise, given he pushed Djokovic so close in those two sets without having anything to show for it. But even if he does lose from here, he’ll still gain the confidence that he can thrive on this surface in future years. John McEnroe made the point on the BBC commentary a little while back that if this was the first time he’d seen Musetti play, he’d think he was a grass-court specialist, rather than someone who was regarded as a clay-courter before this season. A rasping return from Djokovic brings up a second break point in this opening game of the third … and a breathtaking forehand cross-court exchange is ended when Djokovic scurries to the left to secure the break with a backhand pass!

Djokovic wins the second-set tie-break 7-2

Musetti covers his hand with his mouth as Djokovic advances to 5-2, and it’s soon 6-2, four set points, when Musetti’s meek slice falls into the net. Djokovic drives a forehand to Musetti’s backhand wing, Musetti scoops it back into play, but then Djokovic drills away the winner! So Djokovic is now one set away from his 10th Wimbledon final; and Musetti must do what he’s never done before by coming from two sets to love down to survive.

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But then Musetti flicks his wand with an outrageous forehand winner which flies directly over the net post and curves in!! That was up there with the backhand he hit in the third game of this set. Djokovic refuses to be derailed and secures the next point for 4-1. And they change ends at 4-2; Djokovic still holding the advantage …

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Djokovic takes the first point on serve … and then the first point on Musetti’s serve as the Italian hits long. Plenty of cheering for Djokovic there, it has to be said. Maybe he’ll be a bit kinder to the crowd in his on-court interview – well, that’s if he wins of course. There won’t be an on-court interview if he doesn’t. The victory looks more likely as Djokovic wins another point on Musetti’s serve for 3-0 …

Second set: Musetti 4-6, 6-6 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

The longest rally of the match – 26 shots – and it’s Djokovic who is victorious. 15-all. But then Musetti cuts Djokovic into 1,000 pieces with an array of slices, before he lobs the Serb and then smashes away the high ball! 30-15. Djokovic goes more route one with a crushing return and it’s 30-all. Then 30-40, set point, when Musetti opts to come forward and Djokovic’s return has too much bite on it. Musetti kicks the ball into the net in frustration. Drama on set point as Djokovic’s effort is called out – he’s certain it’s in – but it wasn’t. So deuce. And advantage Musetti with an inside-out forehand winner. And game Musetti when Djokovic misdirects his return! It’s time for a tie-break.

Second set: Musetti* 4-6, 5-6 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Djokovic is bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bounce, bouncing that ball before he serves at 0-30. It helps get him back to 15-30 – and an ace makes it 30-all. An ace down the T and, from 0-30, it’s 40-30. He’s scorching the lines here. And the service line is quite possibly on fire as another ace gives Djokovic the game.

Second set: Musetti 4-6, 5-5 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

These could be the biggest moments of the match, you feel, as Musetti has never come back from two sets to love down in his career. Djokovic holds to 15, with relative ease, to lead 5-4. This is the point at which Djokovic struck to win the first set … and he’s got Musetti stumbling into the grass after a rocket down the line. 15-all. But this time Musetti does hold firm as Djokovic drills into the net at 40-15.

Second set: Musetti 4-6, 4-4 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

A huge point for Musetti at 30-all on his serve; a break here would leave Djokovic serving for a two sets to love lead. A smart kicker on the second serve and it’s 40-30. A cunning drop shot and that’s the game.

Second set: Musetti* 4-6, 3-4 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Musetti has tattoo which says Il meglio deve ancora venire – the best is yet to come. He may need to take a look at it for reassurance as a dominant Djokovic consolidates the break to 15. The seven-times champion has taken seven of the past eight points, after Musetti had done so well to get back into this match. But that is the challenge of facing one of the best match players the game has ever seen – even when that player is now 37.

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Djokovic breaks: Musetti 4-6, 3-3 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

But having applauded his opponent, Djokovic gets straight back to business, holding to 30. He then pulls up his sleeves and rips through Musetti’s service game to love with some victorious forays to the net – followed by a forehand cross-court winner on the first break point.

Second set: Musetti 4-6, 3-1 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

Musetti is starting to look like he belongs on Centre Court; you’d never know it’s his first time on it. The 22-year-old said he felt lost on grass a year ago, and this is the first time he’s been beyond the third round. He was previously seen as a clay-courter, but his throwback game matches up well on the grass, with his slice that bounces so low, along with his good hands, variety and imagination. After Djokovic holds to 30, that imagination comes to the fore as Musetti holds with a ridiculous flicked backhand winner on the run. Even Djokovic is applauding.

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Second set: Musetti 4-6, 2-0 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

The momentum appears very much with Musetti at 30-0, but Djokovic drags him back to 30-all with a deft volley. Djokovic piles on the pressure for 30-40, break point. A strong serve gets Musetti out of the hole, and then Djokovic is digging his own hole with a miscued forehand. That could easily have been another break point; instead its advantage Musetti. Musetti – on the run – tries to flash a forehand cross-court winner but can’t pull it off. Deuce. Advantage Djokovic, a second break point. Deuce. Advantage Musetti. Deuce. Advantage Musetti. Game. Phew. Eventually the Italian backs up the break.

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Musetti breaks: Musetti* 4-6, 1-0 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Wow. What a point. It’s a battle of the backhands with Djokovic break point down at 30-40, and it’s the one-hander that prevails over the two-hander. “Prime Wawrinka,” Krygios says. Roger may be a bit put out by that.

Some reading for you:

Djokovic wins the first set 6-4

Those on Centre Court who left after the first semi-final are now piling back in, having heard about the fightback. But Musetti undoes much of his good work by dropping down 0-30. And that’s 0-40, when, with Djokovic prowling on the baseline for the second serve, Musetti double faults. A drop shot fends off the first set point. But another drop shot falls into the net and that’s the set! Terrific composure from Djokovic to recover from that break. It’s as if it didn’t happen.

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Musetti breaks: Musetti* 4-5 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Musetti recovers from 15-30 to 40-30, though he does get a helping hand from Djokovic, who nets a weak slice. There haven’t been many errors from Djokovic so far. Musetti holds from there – which leaves Djokovic serving for the set.

Musetti goes for one line and then the other and that’s a thunderous winner for 0-15! Musetti’s level is rising here, but it may be too late to turn the tide in this set. It looks that way when Djokovic gets to 40-15, two set points. but Musetti, unfazed, battles to deuce. And a deep stroke from Musetti draws the Djokovic error and it’s break point! Musetti whips a viciously spun forehand winner and they’re back on serve!

First set: Musetti* 2-5 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Djokovic hasn’t played since Monday after his walkover in the quarter-finals against Alex de Minaur, and the extra time off seems to have done him good, rather than derail him. He’s started this match sharply and efficiently, he’s making the right shot choices, he’s making Musetti run and run, and here’s another hold to 30. He’s looking as if he’s the 22-year-old out there right now.

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Djokovic breaks: Musetti 2-4 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

Djokovic seizes the initiative with the opening point on Musetti’s serve. And assumes more control by winning the second. 0-30, which is 0-40 when Djokovic approaches the net, hits a weak backhand volley, but then gets another chance on the forehand volley and puts it away. So the first break points of this match. And Djokovic succeeds on the second break point after the most of attritional of rallies is won at the net! He’s raising his arms to the crowd – it’s not clear whether he wants them to cheer or if he’s goading them. A few mock boos maybe follow – but there’s plenty of applause too.

First set: Musetti* 2-3 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Djokovic isn’t just trying to defy medical convention by reaching the Wimbledon final a month after knee surgery, he’s also trying to defy the passing of time. He’s just the third player aged 37 or over to play in a men’s singles grand slam semi-final, after Ken Rosewall and Federer. And if he wins the title on Sunday he’d be oldest men’s singles major champ in the Open era. Djokovic could be forgiven for thinking he’s playing Federer, when Musetti flashes a one-handed backhand winner down the line on the fifth point, but that’s the highlight for the Italian in this game, as Djokovic also holds to 30.

First set: Musetti 2-2 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

Musetti, at 30-15 on serve, cuts himself up with his own slice as he goes wide. 30-all. Djokovic’s first little sniff on Musetti’s serve. But Musetti snuffs it out with a one-hander down the line. And takes the next two points to hold.

First set: Musetti* 1-2 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Djokovic showcases the best of his attack and the best of his defence for 30-0. And then shows off the accuracy of his serve for 40-0. The crowd are definitely cheering for the underdog here, but I haven’t detected any real animosity towards Djokovic so far. Though he may well be hearing any Mooooo-settis as Booooo-settis. But I digress. Djokovic holds to 15.

First set: Musetti 1-1 Djokovic* (*denotes next server)

Nick Kyrgios, speaking on the BBC, says he was hitting with Djokovic yesterday, to help him prepare for this semi-final. “He wanted me to hit a lot of slices,” Kyrgios says. Musetti’s vicious slice is crucial to the way the Italian plays, and how well Djokovic deals with it will be a big factor in the outcome of this match. To underline that point, at 15-all on the Musetti serve, Djokovic rams one of those slices into the tramlines. 30-15, then 40-15 with an ace. And Musetti holds to 30.

First set: Musetti* 0-1 Djokovic (*denotes next server)

Djokovic, serving first, wins the opening point a little fortuitously, when his shot clips the tape and trickles over. But Musetti, who’s hoping to draw inspiration from his fellow Italian Jasmine Paolini’s run to the women’s final, takes the second point after moving forward and finding a clever angle with the winner. A much longer third point – featuring Djokovic’s two-handed backhand v Musetti’s one-handed backhand slice – and on the 27th shot Djokovic pulls off a quite ridiculous backhand pass! 30-15, then 40-15. Musetti makes a move to deuce – but Djokovic dismisses the early danger to hold.

This is an intriguing match of contrasts: the artistic 22-year-old Italian playing in his first slam semi v the street-smart 37-year-old Serbian playing in his 49th; Musetti’s throwback one-handed backhand and slice v Djokovic’s modern brand of aggression and iron-clad defence.

As for their head-to-head, Djokovic leads it 5-1 – but that really doesn’t tell the whole story. Musetti has taken Djokovic to five sets twice at grand slams – going two sets to love up at the 2021 French Open – and then leading by two sets to one at the French Open last month, when Djokovic needed until 3.07 in the morning to finish off the Italian – the latest finish in the tournament’s history.

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They step on to court, Musetti a few steps ahead. After Djokovic raged against the disrespect and booing he felt he was getting from Holger Rune fans on Monday, this blog’s extremely scientific boo-ometer hasn’t detected much booing yet.

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And here Djokovic and Musetti come, for Musetti’s first grand slam semi-final and Djokovic’s 49th.

While we’re waiting for Novak Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti, here’s a bit of women’s pre-final reading:

Alcaraz does such a good job of making the extraordinary look relatively easy. He still wasn’t at his best today, but again it was enough. And he’s one win from sealing a French Open-Wimbledon double in the same year, as well as back-to-back Wimbledon titles.

It’ll be interesting to see if there’s any fine/fall-out from Medvedev’s code violation in the first set:

And what of playing in his second Wimbledon final?

I’m not new any more. I know how I’m going to feel before the final, I’ve been in this position before. I’ll try to do the things that went well last year. It’s going to be a really good day for Spanish people with the football [cue boos from the crowd – maybe that’ll make Novak feel better]. I’m going to watch the second semi-final and see how I’m going to play.

A smiling Alcaraz – spreading joy as he always does – speaks:

First of all, I’m glad to play outdoor. Different conditions, but yeah really happy about my performance. I started really nervous, he was playing great tennis. It was difficult for me, but I tried to pull out the nerves at the beginning of the second set. After that I could play my own game, hit great shots and enjoy the match. In general I think I played a really great match.

I tried not to play long rallies [to combat Medvedev’s game], I tried to hit drop shots, go to the net as much as I can, to not play his game.

Alcaraz defeats Medvedev 6-7, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4

So Alcaraz is serving for a place in his second Wimbledon final. He gets off to the perfect start with a well-placed serve that Medvedev can’t direct. 15-0. A textbook serve-volley for 30-0. He attempts to unleash on the forehand – the right choice, he’d set the point up well – but he can’t execute. 30-15. Then 30-all after a Medvedev winner! This match isn’t over quite yet. A stinging serve out wide and it’s 40-30, Alcaraz’s first match point. Alcaraz strikes with his forehand … and Medvedev isn’t getting that back! Alcaraz smiles and screams. And the whole of Centre Court smiles and screams with him. The Spaniard, as he did last year, sees off Medvedev in the last four, and the defending champion is back in the Wimbledon final!

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Fourth set: Medvedev 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 4-5 Alcaraz* (*denotes next server)

Alcaraz is in full flow now. 0-15, 0-30. He’d clearly like to get this done on Medvedev’s serve. The Russian regroups for 30-all. Then Alcaraz chases down the drop shot in ample time, but tries to be a bit too delicate and the ball meekly slumps into the tape. 40-30. Game. Alcaraz will have to serve this out.

Fourth set: Medvedev* 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 3-5 Alcaraz (*denotes next server)

Time is starting to run out for Medvedev as Alcaraz moves to 30-15. A wonderful net exchange on the next point – Medvedev shows great reactions – Alcaraz great anticipation too – and Alcaraz emerges victorious. 40-15. Game, when Alcaraz serve-volleys and digs a volley out of his shoelaces to produce the winner.

Alcaraz breaks: Medvedev 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 3-4 Alcaraz* (*denotes next server)

Alcaraz shows superb athleticism to get to a Medvedev backhand volley – but he can’t direct the ball back into play. Now he’s moving Medvedev all around the court – and a backhand lob makes it 15-all. 15-30, when Hawk-Eye confirms Medvedev missed by a whisker. The Russian’s next effort effort misses by much more, however, and here’s a double break point for Alcaraz. Medvedev plays Alcaraz at his own game by drop-shotting off the drop shot on the first – but Medvedev is long on the second! If Alcaraz can maintain focus from here, that may prove to be the decisive blow.

Fourth set: Medvedev* 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 3-3 Alcaraz (*denotes next server)

At 30-15 on the Alcaraz serve, the pair are trading baseline blows, and eventually Medvedev knocks himself out by firing a forehand long. A netted return and that’s the game. Four straightforward holds after those two successive breaks – and this fourth set is yet to reignite …

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Fourth set: Medvedev 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 3-2 Alcaraz* (*denotes next server)

A point for the highlights reel at 40-15 as Medvedev lobs, Alcaraz pulls off the tweener, but it’s not got enough punch on it and Medvedev is easily able to dispatch the winning volley.

Fourth set: Medvedev* 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 2-2 Alcaraz (*denotes next server)

15-0, 30-0, 40-0, game Medvedev. Not much to see here. So another lapse in concentration from Alcaraz in that previous game – much has been said about his struggles to maintain focus this fortnight – and, sure, partly that is down to the fact he’s still only 21. It’s easy to forget that given he’s already a three-time slam winner. But I also think not enough has been said about how hard it is mentally to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back. Alcaraz, meanwhile, responds with his own love hold.

Medvedev breaks back: Medvedev* 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 1-1 Alcaraz (*denotes next server)

But now Alcaraz is suddenly doing when he did too much of early in this match, getting a bit too excited with his shot selection and going for low-percentage choices. It’s 0-30. A drop shot gets Alcaraz to 15-30, and a nonchalant volley to 30-all. A long duel from the baseline is broken up when Alcaraz opts for another drop shot and this time Medvedev is wise to it. 30-40, a point for Medvedev to break back straight away! Alcaraz steps forward to the short ball …. he has most of the court in which to bury it… and he fires long! That was Medvedev’s first break point since the first set and Alcaraz has gifted the break back!

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Alcaraz breaks: Medvedev 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 0-1 Alcaraz* (*denotes next server)

Medvedev is back. Hopefully he didn’t look up Alcaraz’s five-set record when he was off court, because it wouldn’t have made good reading for the Russian. Alcaraz is 12-1 when matches go the distance. So even if Medvedev somehow finds a way to take the fourth set, the odds will be stacked heavily against him in the fifth. The chances of a deciding set look slim when Medvedev slides break point down, he does extinguish Alcaraz’s fire briefly, but soon there’s a second break point at Alcaraz’s advantage and the defending champion lets off the pyrotechnics with a fizzing forehand to break!

Medvedev has stepped off court to regather. Alcaraz doesn’t want to wait; he’s already at the baseline. But there’s no one for him to play. So how’s Alcaraz turned this around? I think he’s been a bit more patient about waiting for his opportunities, rather than just going for the spectacular. His first-serve percentage is up, his forehand is now flowing and his success on passing shots means that Medvedev isn’t winning so many points at the net and has been pushed further back.

Alcaraz wins the third set 6-4

Medvedev, at the net, opts to leave Alcaraz’s pass, thinking it’s whistling wide, but Hawk-Eye confirms it grazed the line. 15-0. 30-0, with an unreturned serve. And 40-0, when Medvedev nets a backhand. Three set points for the defending champion to take a two sets to one lead. Medvedev jumps on the second serve on the first – but then jabs his return long on the second! Alcaraz is a set away from his second successive Wimbledon final.

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Third set: Medvedev 7-6, 3-6, 4-5 Alcaraz* (*denotes next server)

A forehand pass while sprinting forward from Alcaraz and it’s 0-15. Then 15-30. And it should absolutely be 15-40 and two set points – but Alcaraz, after a superb lob, inexplicably tries a drop-shot-cum smash and nets! So instead it’s 30-all. And then 40-30. If Medvedev holds here, Alcaraz better serve this set out, otherwise he’ll be absolutely kicking himself. And the 6ft 6in Medvedev leaps into the air and biffs and backhand down the line for the game.

Third set: Medvedev* 7-6, 3-6, 3-5 Alcaraz (*denotes next server)

A good deep backhand from Alcaraz at 0-15 on the Spaniard’s serve catches Medvedev off-guard and it’s 15-all. Alcaraz fancies a bit of serve-volleying on the next point and Medvedev has a decent spot to aim his pass into but goes wide. Another punishing serve from Alcaraz sets up the next point and it’s 40-15. Medvedev gets Alcaraz on the move and pulls back to 40-30. But the most feathery of drop shots from Alcaraz just creeps over the net and the tide has very much turned in this match.

Thanks Yara. Hello all! Just before we get back to Medvedev v Alcaraz, news from No 3 Court, where Britain’s Alfie Hewett has come from a set down to defeat Argentina’s Gustavo Fernandez 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 and reach the men’s wheelchair singles final for the third year in a row. He’ll now face either Japan’s Tokito Oda or Spain’s Martín de la Puente for his first Wimbledon singles title.

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-6, 3-4 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Medvedev holds! It’s nervy as he hits a couple double faults. But we get to deuce and Medvedev is brought forward by Alcaraz. However he comes up with some fantastic volleys and sees out the set.

My time with you is done and I will be passing this liveblog on to Katy Murrells to see out this semi-final and the next one. Thanks for joining me today.

Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-6, 2-4 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) It’s 30-0 for Medvedev after Alcaraz hits a backhand long in the first point and then fails to hit a dropshot in the second. But the concentration returns and it’s 30-30. The Spaniard goes ahead for the first time in the game after a beautiful serve and sees it out. The commentators speak about Alcaraz’s inability to focus for an entire game and whether that is something he will grow out of.

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-6, 2-3 Alcaraz (*denotes server) The Russian has the hold. Big news given how the last set and a half have gone. It’s close at 40-30 after Alcaraz’s drop shot clips the net and goes over, but the Spaniard’s defence just slips a little in the final point.

Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-6, 1-3 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) He just makes it look so easy, doesn’t he? These games are now only taking a couple of minutes.

Updated

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-6, 1-2 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Oof, a couple challenges in this game. First one goes Medvedev’s way after Alcaraz hits a spiny forehand wide. Second one goes Alcaraz’s way, with Medvedev’s shot just out. The Spaniard breaks here and it seems like it’s cruise control at this point. Medvedev is not coming up with any answers.

Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-6, 1-1 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) Another easy hold, this time for the Spaniard. Hopefully this set doesn’t become too routine.

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-6, 1-0 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Easy hold for Medvedev. Alcaraz attempts a through the legs shot as a last resort but it goes wide though. He smiles at the goofiness of it all though, and the crowd love it.

Got some emails with an update on another match and media biases.

Chris writes:

Alfie Hewett has just won a nail-biting victory against Argentinian Gustavo Fernandez, 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 – the final game being the longest at 10+ minutes and six Deuces. I’m wrung out!

The quest for Hewett’s first singles title continues!

And Niall says:

I find the commentators very pro Alcaraz and not giving enough credit to Medvedev for his great play. Had a quick look at his career stats. Runner-up in 2023 US Open and 2024 Aussie Open. Hardly a shock if he as the fifth seed beats the third seed. Commentators seem to think it would be a shock.

Truly think it is because Alcaraz plays with more flair. The Russian also loves drawing out games. He likes to “win ugly” and sometimes that doesn’t feel like it’s worth as much (even though that should not be the case!)

Updated

Carlos Alcaraz takes the second set 6-3 against Daniil Medvedev

At 15-0, Alcaraz double faults for the first time in the match and the Russian makes it 30-15 after the Spaniard hits it well long after a lengthy rally. Medvedev then makes a mistake on the next point, netting a backhand to tie it up at 30-30.

We get to set point for Alcaraz but he double faults again but then takes the set after the Russian nets his return twice in a row.

Updated

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 3-5 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Alcaraz is well on top right now, but the one thing that remains consistent is his serve. He makes it 40-0 quickly after a crosscourt volley. He successfully serves to stay in the set.

Medvedev 7-6 (1), 2-5 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) A change in technique here? Medvedev’s movements are much more exaggerated now when he is returning. His forehands in this game are hit with a big follow-through motion. It doesn’t matter much here though. Alcaraz goes up 40-15, again with some fantastic forehands. He hits an ace to make it 5-2 in the second.

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 2-4 Alcaraz (*denotes server) OK, better from the Russian. He can almost always rely on his strong serving to give him a boost of confidence. He is winning more than 60% of his points in this match just from service games.

Medvedev 7-6 (1), 1-4 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) The Spaniard goes 40-0. He’s structuring his points really well and his shot selection has been a lot better than the first set. He moves Medvedev around, and wins the set by hitting a cross-court shot. Medvedev needs to be more aggressive. He is allowing Alcaraz to run on these forehands that he has not been able to get to.

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 1-3 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Are the tides shifting here? Alcaraz goes 30-0 up with a fantastic forehand return on a serve before Medvedev makes a glaring mistake. He has a wide open court as Alcaraz stumbles but he hits the volley out despite not being under any pressure. Alcaraz takes advantage of the shaky Russian’s confidence and breaks. Massive cheers on Centre Court.

Updated

Medvedev 7-6 (1), 1-2 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) Medvedev does his best to hit some creative returns but they don’t all come off.

At 40-30 we get the longest rally of the match with 27 shots. Fantastic from both players but it’s Alcaraz that pulls the dagger with a shot right on the line that Medvedev can’t get to. Such a great display from both players in the art of changing the pace and spin of the ball.

*Medvedev 7-6 (1), 1-1 Alcaraz (*denotes server) The Russian is up 5-2 when it comes to aces. He’s hitting his serves with such precision and he holds without dropping a point. Quick and no nonsense game.

Medvedev 7-6 (1), 0-1 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) Better shot selection from Alcaraz to start this second set. He makes it 30-0 with a forehand near the net that Medvedev can’t get to.

But again, a prolonged rally and the mistake comes from Alcaraz to make it 30-15. He holds though and starts the set strong.

Daniil Medvedev takes the first set 7-6 (1) against Carlos Alcaraz

Medvedev makes it 3-0 in the tie-break right off the back with the last one being a fantastic return almost right on the line. Great mini-break!

When it’s his turn to serve it, he forces Alcaraz to net two backhanded volleys. Alcaraz makes it 5-1 as Medvedev’s defence slips. But it’s only a stutter. He takes the set after a beautiful ace.

He made it difficult for himself but the Russian takes the first set. Alcaraz finishes the set with 15 unforced errors.

Updated

*Medvedev 6-5 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Great hold from the Russian. So crucial. He hits a few shots near the net that Alcaraz can’t get to but his demeanour is still subdued. No big celebrations like his opponent.

On BBC, they are still theorising about his unsportsmanlike conduct. They say he could not have sword as that would have automatically been a loss of point.

Medvedev 5-5 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) The Russian starts the game well, going 30-0 up but Alcaraz serves well to take the game.

Medvedev does not look happy. He was serving for the set a while ago but it has all torpedoed for him.

*Medvedev 5-4 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Alcaraz goes 40-0 up. Medvedev tries to respond and it’s 40-30. A wild shot from the Russian goes just in, which is called as the rally keeps going. The umpire allows the point from Alcaraz because the Russian’s racket is down but he is not happy. He says something to the umpire and she comes down and speaks at length with the referee and the supervisor on the court. Strange situation that ends with the Russian getting a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct. If he gets another one of those, he loses a point.

Medvedev 5-3 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) You can tell how unnatural it is for the Russian to come forward. He is trying but he makes the same mistake over and over again – he comes near the net to try to catch out the Spaniard, but he then hits it straight where Alcaraz wants it. The Spaniard goes 40-0 up, with a unique volley technique where he (unintentionally) switches the direction of his racket and then serves well to stay in the set.

*Medvedev 5-2 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Alcaraz’s forehand is worrying here. Just a few necessary errors. The Russian is the one dragging out the points and coming out on top in these extended rallies – the points that have over nine shots, the Russian has won nine and lost four. Alcaraz down a break and is serving next to stay in the set.

Updated

Medvedev 4-2 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) Break follows break follows break! Medvedev goes 30-0 up but Alcaraz then hits a fantastic cross-court chip, faking the dropshot gives him an in.

But the Russian is not giving up and he manages to see the game out and break.

Side note: Pink (the singer) is watching on Centre Court! BBC commentators are trying to analyse who she is rooting for by lip reading. Nothing was safely deduced.

*Medvedev 3-2 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Alcaraz responds! He’s much more patient here than on that last service game and he goes up 30-0 with some slicing backhands. The Russian makes it 30-15 with a close to net backhand volley and we get some “ooohs” from the crowd. Rare for him to be so close to the net.

It gets to deuce and Medvedev gets the advantage after Alcaraz nets a dropshot attempt. It’s important that the Russian sees this out … and he doesn’t. Alcaraz thunders close to the net and hits one so fast Medvedev doesn’t even move.

We go back and forth between deuce and advantage again a few times (this is looking like it’s going to be a long one!) and it’s the Spaniard who finally takes the game. He hits a tall shot (by accident) but even the tall Medvedev can’t reach it. The ball hits the top of the racket and goes out.

Medvedev 3-1 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) Wow! What a first point in this game. Medvedev is playing higher up that he usually is, anticipating the returns that he will get. He moves the world No 3 around and forces him to net.

The Russian keeps going and makes it 40-0 after some more controlled hitting. He is keeping the ball deep and Alcaraz just keeps hitting it out.

Another unforced error on the break point gives the Russian the advantage.

*Medvedev 2-1 Alcaraz (*denotes server) The Russian double faults early on but at 30-15 to him, he forces Alcaraz back and the Spaniard struggles, hitting the ball out. He then hits an ace to see out the game.

Medvedev 1-1 Alcaraz* (*denotes server) On the BBC, they are speaking about how most of Medvedev’s matches at Wimbledon this year have been with the roof up. Today, with the roof down, it can affect the way he likes to hit the ball more than Alcaraz.

The Spaniard breezes to 40-0 with some pinpoint serves and sees out after a short rally. Massive difference between the two service games.

*Medvedev 1-0 Alcaraz (*denotes server) Here we go! The Russian starts us off and he goes 30-15 up. But Alcaraz ties it up with a speedy crosscourt forehand after he sends Medvedev chasing.

We get to deuce after Alcaraz brings Medvedev to the net (though accidentally). We’ll see a lot of that today. It’s no secret the world No 5 likes to operate further back.

We go back and forth between advantage and deuce for a while before Medvedev finally holds after Alcaraz hits one out. He wants it to be checked and the original call is confirmed.

An email! Kerrith writes:

I’m a converted Medvedev fan, used to think he was all ugly grind but now see he’s a really fun player to watch from a tactical perspective (his tekkers are still ugly).

How’s he gonna beat Carlito? I think grass actually suits Med in this matchup – I’m expecting frustration tactics, plus some filth.

As you mentioned, it’s a shame the Sinner v Alcaraz matchup never happened at Wimby yet, but there’s still time. Who do you think would’ve won?

Also, Djoker in five? Unlike many, Musetti always looks like he’s in the game v Djoker but just doesn’t have quite enough. I’m hoping he proves me wrong today.

I’m a big fan of both Alcaraz and Medvedev so hard to tell who will come out on top today. I think Alcaraz has not been as dominant as he was when he won Wimbledon last year, but he is consistently finding a way to get to this point this year. Does he have two more matches like that in the bag? And his volleys have been stellar!

Medvedev is also such an interesting one because you’re right, it can “look ugly”. But it is so effective. They way he just unravels his opponents by picking and choosing when to come up to the net and forcing mistakes is masterful at times. He’s, of course, tall and lanky but he will have to move a bit more today than what he is comfortable with.

Our second semi-final also promises to be an interesting one. Djokovic hasn’t lost a semi-final at Wimbledon since 2012. Musetti was only 10 years old! The fact that the Serbian is even here, playing, after that knee injury is impressive. He’s also had quite a bit of rest. Some players may not like the fact that they’ve had extra days to lose rhythm but at his age, it may be beneficial.

Hoping for two crackers!

Have you ever wondered what your favourite ATP Tour player is jamming to this summer? Well, now you won’t have to wonder. The tour have published a video revealing the players’ songs of the summer on their social media.

Looks like we have some reggaeton lovers and fans of Twenty One Pilots, Kid Laroi and Martin Garrix.

The biggest surprise though is Medvedev, whose pick is Espresso by Sabrina Carpenter. I never thought I would have anything in common with a professional tennis player but here we are – that song is constantly stuck in my head.

‘He’s working late … Because he’s a serverrrr …’

Updated

How did these two make it to this stage? Let’s take a look.

Daniil Medvedev:

First round v Aleksandar Kovacevic 6-3, 6-4, 6-2
Second round v Alexandre Muller 6-7 (3), 7-6 (4), 6-4, 7-5
Third round v Jan-Lennard Struff 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (3)
Round of 16 v Grigor Dimitrov 5-3 ret
Quarter-final v Jannik Sinner 6-7 (7), 6-4, 7-6 (4), 2-6, 6-3

Carlos Alcaraz:

First round v Mark Lajal 7-6 (3), 7-5, 6-2
Second round v Aleksandar Vukic 7-6 (5), 6-2, 6-2
Third round v Frances Tiafoe 5-7, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-2
Round of 16 v Ugo Humbert 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 7-5
Quarter-final v Tommy Paul 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-2

Alcaraz and Medvedev have met six times, with the Spaniard winning four of those matches. Their last meeting at a slam was at last year’s US Open semi-final, which Medvedev won 7-6 (3), 6-1, 3-6 6-3. Their last meeting on grass was last year’s Wimbledon semi-final which Alcaraz won 6-3, 6-3, 6-3.

Preamble

Good afternoon all and happy Friday! Today we get to find out who will be playing in the coveted men’s singles final on Sunday and what a lineup we have here at SW19.

Up first is the defending champion, Carlos Alcaraz. The world No 3 is coming off a French Open win and is looking to make back-to-back grand slam finals for the first time in his career.

Nearly every tennis fan in the world was hoping and expecting a rematch of the Roland Garros thriller between Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. But the world No 5 Daniil Medvedev had something to say about that, beating the Italian in a five sets in the quarter-final.

But, never fear! We do get a French Open rematch. That will come when Lorenzo Musetti takes on Novak Djokovic. Musetti, who has never made it past the fourth round at any slam, will hope that the lessons have been learned and he can get the better of Djokovic. The world No 2 got a pass straight through to the semi-final after Alex de Minaur was forced to forfeit their quarter-final due to injury.

If you have any questions, musings, complaints or predictions you would like to share, send them to me via email which you can find at the top of this blog.

Updated

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