The stage is set for a blockbuster Wimbledon final as tennis titan Novak Djokovic prepares to take on world number one Jannik Sinner in what promises to be an electrifying clash on Friday. But while fans gear up for the mouthwatering matchup, concerns over both players’ fitness have thrown a cloud of uncertainty over the much-anticipated showdown.
Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, raised eyebrows after suffering a fall during his quarter-final match against Flavio Cobolli. Though he managed to bounce back and seal the win, questions about his condition linger. At 38, the Serbian legend is no stranger to the toll of a grueling Grand Slam campaign, and his decision to cancel Thursday’s practice session has only fueled speculation about his readiness.
Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner is grappling with his own fitness issues. The Italian star, who slipped and injured his right elbow during the opening game of his fourth-round match against Grigor Dimitrov, continues to battle discomfort. Although Dimitrov retired mid-match and Sinner advanced, fans noticed heavy strapping on his elbow during his quarter-final triumph over Ben Shelton.
Sinner insists he’s “100% fit” to take on Djokovic, but the signs have been mixed. He skipped his Tuesday practice, opting instead for light indoor hitting while awaiting the outcome of a scan. Though he later resumed full training on Thursday, smiling and laughing with his team, doubts about his elbow persist.
Djokovic, who retired from this year’s Australian Open semi-final after just one set due to a lingering leg injury, acknowledged the challenges of competing at the highest level in his late 30s. “Sometimes I get tired of all the daily routines I have to follow to prepare my body for performance,” he admitted. “It requires a lot of hours off the court, in the gym, or on the treatment table, working with what I have. Physically, I hope to sustain that.”
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As if the final couldn’t get more intense, Friday’s first semi-final adds another layer of drama. Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz will take on Taylor Fritz in a fiery encounter. Fritz, however, sparked concern after calling for a medical timeout during his quarter-final win over Karen Khachanov. He later clarified that the issue was minor, linked to foot taping rather than a new injury.
Of all the semi-finalists, Alcaraz appears to be the only one entering Friday’s action at full strength. The 22-year-old Spaniard, chasing his third consecutive Wimbledon crown, remains the biggest threat to any opponent, especially if Djokovic or Sinner enters Sunday’s final with less than 100%.
As the tennis world watches with bated breath, all eyes will be on Centre Court to see who survives the injuries, pressure, and sheer intensity of Wimbledon 2025. One thing is certain, this final has all the ingredients of a classic.
