Felix Auger-Aliassime received a special message from Jelena Djokovic following his dramatic Wimbledon quarter-final defeat against Novak Djokovic, with the Serbian’s wife praising the Canadian’s performance and character after one of the most demanding matches of the tournament.
Auger-Aliassime pushed the seven-time Wimbledon champion to the limit in a five-hour battle on Centre Court before Djokovic eventually secured victory 7-6(10), 3-6, 6-3, 6-7(4), 7-6[10-4]. The Canadian forced a deciding tie-break but could not complete what would have been one of the biggest victories of his career.
After the match, Jelena Djokovic took the opportunity to publicly recognise Auger-Aliassime’s effort through social media. Commenting on the Canadian’s latest Instagram post, she highlighted not only his performance against Novak but also the qualities that have made him respected within the tennis community.
The message from Djokovic’s wife added a different perspective to the aftermath of a tense quarter-final, with Jelena praising Auger-Aliassime’s attitude and revealing the affection he has earned from the Djokovic family over the years.
“You were incredible”: Jelena Djokovic praises Auger-Aliassime after Wimbledon thriller
Jelena Djokovic’s message focused on the Canadian’s character beyond the result of the match. She described Auger-Aliassime as a role model and expressed her support after he produced one of his strongest Grand Slam performances, despite falling short against one of the greatest players in tennis history.
“You were incredible last night Felix. Our kids adore you and you are a wonderful role model. One had to come out as a winner in that match, but there is so much to be proud of. We will be cheering for you!”
Lovely words from Jelena Djokovic to Felix after the battle last night.
— Pavvy G (@pavyg) July 8, 2026
Both Jelena and Novak are always so warm and respectful to their opponents whether they win or lose. It's not talked about enough. pic.twitter.com/RratsB78rJ
The reaction reflected the respect between both camps after a contest decided by the smallest margins. Auger-Aliassime had opportunities throughout the match and showed the level required to challenge Djokovic on Centre Court, forcing the Serbian to produce his best tennis in order to advance.
The Canadian’s performance represented another positive step in his recent progress, especially after enduring difficult periods earlier in his career. Although he was unable to reach the semi-finals, Auger-Aliassime left Wimbledon having demonstrated his ability to compete against the top players on the biggest stages.
Auger-Aliassime pushes Djokovic before Serbian sets up Sinner clash
The quarter-final was defined by its competitiveness from the opening set. Djokovic edged the first tie-break 12-10 after both players protected their serves, but Auger-Aliassime responded strongly in the second set by finding the only break of the period to level the match.
Djokovic regained control in the third set after converting a break opportunity, but Auger-Aliassime continued to fight and forced another tie-break in the fourth set, where he kept his composure to send the match into a deciding fifth set under the lights at the All England Club.
The final set once again produced a tight battle, with Djokovic unable to convert early break opportunities before the match reached another tie-break. The Serbian eventually prevailed 7-4 in the decider, securing his place in the Wimbledon semi-finals.
Djokovic will now face world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the last four after the Italian defeated Jan-Lennard Struff earlier in the day. Meanwhile, Auger-Aliassime leaves London with confidence gained from pushing Djokovic to the limit in one of the tournament’s most memorable matches.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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mandoist12-11-2026 - Tell this to Andreeva!mandoist12-11-2026
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- I predicted whenthe list was finalised that Linda Noskova would win the WTA Finals and her matches against Gauff and Kostyuk prove that. She is the best (underrated) player in the world!Rapunzel11-11-2026
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- Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
