"She was very pleasant": Novak Djokovic shares rare insight into Queen Camilla encounter
ATPFriday, 10 July 2026 at 18:30
Novak Djokovic has spent much of this Wimbledon writing history on Centre Court, but one of his most memorable moments at the All England Club came away from competition.
After reaching another milestone in London, the Serbian reflected on a special conversation with Queen Camilla, describing the encounter as a reminder of the unique atmosphere that surrounds the tournament.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion has once again reached the semifinals after surviving a record-breaking five-hour and 15-minute battle against Felix Auger-Aliassime. The victory marked his 15th semifinal appearance at SW19 and his 55th at Grand Slam level, further extending a career already defined by historic achievements.
However, Djokovic has also highlighted the importance of Wimbledon’s traditions, including the connection between the tournament and the Royal Family. During his time at the Championships, he crossed paths with Queen Camilla, who left a strong impression on the 24-time Grand Slam champion.
"It was non-tennis related": Djokovic reflects on Wimbledon royal tradition
Speaking about their exchange, Djokovic admitted that something in their conversation caught him by surprise, although he chose not to reveal the details.
"I prefer not sharing that. It's private," Djokovic said to Express. "We had a nice exchange. I was actually surprised with her comment and a question that she asked. It was non-tennis related. She was very pleasant. Very, very pleasant."
Novak Djokovic celebrates a new victory at Wimbledon with open arms on Centre Court.
The Serbian explained that moments like these are part of what makes Wimbledon different from other tournaments, highlighting the historical connection between the Championships and the Royal Family.
"Of course, it's a great honour and privilege for me to be able to shake hands with the Queen of England," Djokovic added. "It's obviously a phenomenal occasion for Wimbledon to host the Royal Family."
With Djokovic now preparing for another major challenge against Jannik Sinner in the semifinals, his pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon title and a record 25th Grand Slam continues. Yet his latest campaign has once again shown that his Wimbledon story is built not only on trophies and records, but also on the unique moments that come with competing at the sport’s most historic venue.
Queen Camilla meets Novak Djokovic. pic.twitter.com/3wahIR7djX
— Danny (@DjokovicFan_) July 9, 2025
Djokovic looks to repeat Australian Open breakthrough against Sinner at Wimbledon
Djokovic will return to Centre Court on Friday for a Wimbledon semifinal showdown against world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, the defending champion who arrives with a 12-match winning streak at the All England Club. Exactly one year ago, it was the Italian who ended Djokovic’s title hopes in the same round, defeating the Serbian in straight sets to reach the final.
This time, however, Djokovic enters the clash with renewed confidence after finally ending a five-match losing streak against Sinner earlier this season. The 39-year-old defeated the Italian in the Australian Open semifinals, proving once again that he can challenge Sinner in the biggest moments and over the five-set distance.
Although Djokovic eventually finished runner-up in Melbourne after losing the final to Carlos Alcaraz, the conditions at Wimbledon could present a different challenge. The Serbian’s experience, movement on grass and history at SW19 could make Friday’s semifinal another major test for the defending champion.
Novak Djokovic – Wimbledon Finals Record
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Score |
| 2011 | Novak Djokovic | Rafael Nadal | 6-4, 6-1, 1-6, 6-3 |
| 2013 | Andy Murray | Novak Djokovic | 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 |
| 2014 | Novak Djokovic | Roger Federer | 6-7(7), 6-4, 7-6(4), 5-7, 6-4 |
| 2015 | Novak Djokovic | Roger Federer | 7-6(1), 6-7(10), 6-4, 6-3 |
| 2018 | Novak Djokovic | Kevin Anderson | 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(3) |
| 2019 | Novak Djokovic | Roger Federer | 7-6(5), 1-6, 7-6(4), 4-6, 13-12(3) |
| 2021 | Novak Djokovic | Matteo Berrettini | 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 |
| 2022 | Novak Djokovic | Nick Kyrgios | 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(3) |
| 2023 | Carlos Alcaraz | Novak Djokovic | 1-6, 7-6(6), 6-1, 3-6, 6-4 |
| 2024 | Carlos Alcaraz | Novak Djokovic | 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(4) |
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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