LONDON, July 14, 2019

Novak Djokovic saved two championship points and won a historic final-set tie-break to defeat eight-time champion Roger Federer and claim his fifth Wimbledon title on Sunday afternoon.

The World No. 1 from Serbia outlasted the Swiss Maestro 7-6(5), 1-6, 7-6(4), 4-6, 13-12(3) at the end of a classic contest which lasted four hours and 57 minutes – the longest men’s singles final at the All England Club. It was Djokovic’s 16th Grand Slam career title.

A match for the ages…

The moment @DjokerNole retained his crown to become #Wimbledon champion for a fifth time after a historic men’s singles final#JoinTheStory pic.twitter.com/zDQlEBviMD

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) 14. Juli 2019

“I think this was, if not the most exciting and thrilling final I’ve been a part of then definitely in the top two or three of my career – and against one of the greatest of all time in Roger who I respect a lot,” Djokovic said.

“Unfortunately in these matches one player has to lose. Both of us had our chances. It was quite unreal to have match points against me and come back and then to have a tie-break at 12-12.

“I was actually hoping I could get to a tie-break. Roger said he hopes he give people the chance to believe at 37 years old and I hope that I am one of them.

“He inspires me that’s for sure.”

Federer: I gave it everything

“I will try to forget it! But it was a great match,” said Federer on Centre Court. “It was long and had everything. I had my chances and so did he. We played some great tennis and I was happy with my performance as well. 

“Novak played great, so congratulations to him. That was crazy – well done.

“I hope I give some other people a chance to believe around the world. I gave it all I had and I can still stand. I hope the same can be said for all the other 37-year-olds.

“My children won’t be excited with the plate, they would be more excited with that golden thing. But it is all good, back to being a dad and a husband.”