De Miñaur highlights what makes Djokovic so dangerous on grass

Jose Morón | 7 Jul 2025 | 18.43

De Miñaur highlights what makes Djokovic so dangerous on grass. Photo: Getty

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Everyone was surprised by a Alex de Miñaur who came out ready to give Novak Djokovic a lot of trouble. And trouble he did give. The Australian had the perfect tactic, only he couldn't sustain it for long, and also his serve couldn't support him during the most crucial phase of the match. In the end, he came very close to forcing the match into a fifth set, but he remains convinced that he is growing and getting closer to these types of players.

He pushed Nole to the limit, who had to face countless break points due to Alex's great performance on returns. Despite all his efforts, he couldn't push Djokovic to the edge, and Djokovic advanced to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon.

Match

It has been tough. It's a shame I couldn’t take it to a fifth set. I think I was in a great position for it, and now I feel a bit disappointed. I couldn’t secure that fourth set. Maybe there was a bit of a drop on my part and an increase in his level. He brought out his best when it was 4-1 and I had a double break opportunity. That changed everything. Right now, I feel a bit frustrated, with the set slipping through my fingers, but he is very good in crucial moments.

Why is it so difficult to play against Djokovic on grass

I would say it's a combination of his serve and return. When needed, he elevated his serving level. I felt I was dominating the games easily, and there came a point where I had no chance with my second serves. He has it all in his game, but I would highlight his serve and return above everything else.

Start of the second set

I think I was very unlucky to get broken. There were a couple of shots that went his way, and suddenly I found myself a break down without doing anything wrong. That changed the momentum entirely. Although the second set was very tight, I believe I dropped my level a bit in crucial moments and didn't raise it when required to beat someone like him.

Assessment of this tournament run

Right now, I see it overall as a bit disappointing. Even so, I knew I would have a great chance in this tournament. I didn't do well before Wimbledon to secure a spot in the Top 8, to protect myself in the draw before the quarterfinals, and here we are, facing Novak in the round of 16. Regarding today's match, there are positive aspects. However, at this stage of my career, this is insufficient for me. I want more. I want to be on the other side in this match because that is what I aim for in my career. I want to take that next step. I defend very little from now until the end of the year, and I want to reach the ATP Finals.

Mindset after losing today

I need to face the defeat with the mindset that I was close and probably could have reached a fifth set, and who knows what would have happened then. I should tell myself that, but right now, I can't see it. It's too early. As the hours pass, I'll be able to see it differently, but I lost to Djokovic when I expected more from myself this week.

What he likes most about his game right now

From the baseline, I have stood toe to toe with one of the best. I always felt I had the upper hand if the points went long. I moved the ball well and caused damage from the baseline. I created many opportunities. From my returns, I knew I could put a lot of pressure on him, and that was the case today as well. I need to improve my serve. Sometimes, the serve gets you out of trouble and that needs to help me in crucial moments to win matches like this.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, De Miñaur destaca lo que hace tan peligroso a Djokovic en hierba

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