Wimbledon 2022 LIVE: Novak Djokovic beats Cameron Norrie to set up final against Nick Kyrgios

Novak Djokovic fought back from a set down to defeat Cameron Norrie and set up a Wimbledon final against Nick Kyrgios.

The defending champion appeared sluggish and out of sorts as the British No 1 made a brilliant start in the semi-final, breaking Djokovic’s serve three times to take the opening set 6-2.

However, the Serbian was able to raise his game as Norrie started to falter in the second set and, after levelling the match, Djokovic ultimately cruised to a 2-6 6-3 6-2 6-4 victory.

And in the final awaits Kyrgios, who is through to his first grand slam final after Nadal was forced to pull out of the second semi-final as a result of an abdominal tear.

Follow all the action, scores and results from Wimbledon live below:

Wimbledon 2022

• Novak Djokovic beats Cameron Norrie 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 to reach Wimbledon men’s singles final

• Djokovic faces Nick Kyrgios in Sunday’s final

• Rafael Nadal forced to withdraw before semi-final against Kyrgios with abdominal tear

• REPORT: Novak Djokovic fights back to defeat Cameron Norrie and reach Wimbledon final

Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic beats Cameron Norrie to face Nick Kyrgios in final

Friday 8 July 2022 19:00 , Karl Matchett

An injury might have robbed Centre Court of a wildly entertaining semi-final against Rafael Nadal, but Nick Kyrgios will provide belligerence and fireworks in abundance.

The pair are polar opposites, a relentless devotee versus a blaspheming renegade, but it is the Australian who has won both of their previous meetings. “He’s got a big game overall, power in his shots,” Djokovic said. “We haven’t played for some time but I have never won a set off him. Hopefully, it’s different this time.”

If Djokovic starts as sluggishly as he did here, it’s certainly not impossible to imagine him being blown away.

Tom Kershaw looks ahead to a Wimbledon men’s singles final which could prove explosive and spectacular in every way, as Novak Djokovic progresses to play Nick Kyrgios on Sunday.

Make sure to join us for full coverage!

Novak Djokovic fights back to defeat Cameron Norrie and reach Wimbledon final

Djokovic sings the praises of Norrie after semi-final

Friday 8 July 2022 18:50 , Karl Matchett

Plenty of nice words and a show of respect from the victory for his opponent.

Djokovic had to dig deep to come from behind yet again, even if he did eventually surge into the final in relative comfort.

A big step for Norrie, but a familiar one for Djokovic in the end.

Friday 8 July 2022 18:40 , Karl Matchett

Cam Norrie put in a massive shift across the two weeks here at Wimbledon - Djokovic, one of the world’s all-time greats, was just a step too far.

This was comfortably his best performance at a Grand Slam event all the same. Previously, Norrie had never passed a third round at any of the Australian, French or US Opens.

Wimbledon latest

Friday 8 July 2022 18:32 , LTA

Alfie Hewett produced a comeback befitting of the first men’s wheelchair tennis match to be staged on No.1 Court as he reached his first Wimbledon singles final with a 26 76(3) 64 victory over 2019 champion Gustavo Fernandez of Argentina.

Hewett battled back from a set and 5-1 down to take the second set on the tie-break before recovering from 4-2 in the final set and taking a ninth game that included eight deuces across 14 minutes.

By comparison to the drama that preceded, Hewett wrapped up victory relatively comfortably on his first match point after three hours and three minutes and the world No.2 will now face world No.1 Shingo Kunieda of Japan in Sunday’s final.

Later on Friday, Hewett returns to court in a bid to reach his sixth successive Wimbledon men's wheelchair doubles final partnering Gordon Reid. Hewett and Reid face Tom Egberink of the Netherlands and Joachim Gerard of Belgium, the same partnership they beat in 2021 to win their fourth Wimbledon title in five years.

Djokovic fights back to defeat Norrie and reach Wimbledon final

Friday 8 July 2022 18:25 , Karl Matchett

Novak Djokovic was weary and withdrawn for much of this semi-final, a shadow of his usual self burning in the sunshine over Centre Court, but even that deficit couldn’t bridge the gulf in class that swallowed up Cameron Norrie.

The Briton had already defied expectation to reach Wimbledon’s last four and he stirred the most cynical of imaginations when he broke Djokovic three times in a barely fathomable first set. But with almost crushing inevitability, the defending champion raised his game and systematically ransacked his opponent of their spirit, cruising through the next three sets with increasing ease to close out a 2-6 6-3 6-2 6-4 victory.

Norrie fought valiantly until the end, but his shoulders had long slumped and a sense of regret might weigh heavily in the coming days. Djokovic had been so off-kilter at the start here, so heavy and inert, that you wonder if a better opportunity might ever present itself.

Full match report from Tom Kershaw at Wimbledon:

Novak Djokovic fights back to defeat Cameron Norrie and reach Wimbledon final

Djokovic and Kyrgios: last time out

Friday 8 July 2022 18:18 , Karl Matchett

It’s five years since the pair met and that came on the hard courts of Indian Wells and Acapulco. The Australian emerged triumphant, as Djokovic noted - but Wimbledon has long been the Serbian’s domain.

We’ll see on Sunday which of the two historical advantages proves most telling.

Novak Djokovic discusses the final against Nick Kyrgios

Friday 8 July 2022 18:09 , Luke Baker

“The job is not finished yet. One thing is for sure - there will be a lot of fireworks emotionally from both of us [him and Kyrgios]! It’s his first grand slam final, he’s excited, he doesn’t have much to lose and he’s always playing like that anyway. Playing freely. He’s got a big game overall, power in his shots

“We haven’t played for some time but I have never won a set off him! Hopefully it’s different this time. Another final here in a tournament that I love so much, hopefully experience can work in my favour.”

Novak Djokovic gives his post-match thoughts on semi-final win

Friday 8 July 2022 18:07 , Luke Baker

“I didn’t start off well - he was the better player for the first set. The semi-final of a grand slam and I’ve had many in the past but it’s never easy walking out on the court. There’s lots of pressure and expectations from yourself and from others.

“Cameron didn’t have much to lose -he’s having the tournament of his life, playing at home. I wish him well, he’s a good player and I have a lot of respect for him.

“It was very hot today, the hottest of the championship so far. I was a bit tight at the beginning, you’re not swinging through the ball as smoothly as you like to. Cameron was dominating the play and I got lucky to break him in the second set at 4-3 to be honest. He missed a couple of put-aways and after that, the momentum shifted. That’s the significance of this and this stage of a grand slam.”

Novak Djokovic fights back to defeat Cameron Norrie and reach Wimbledon final

Friday 8 July 2022 18:03 , Luke Baker

Novak Djokovic fought back from a set down to defeat Cameron Norrie and set up a Wimbledon final against Nick Kyrgios.

The defending champion appeared sluggish and out of sorts as the British No 1 made a brilliant start, breaking Djokovic’s serve three times to take the opening set 6-2.

However, the Serbian was able to raise his game as Norrie started to falter in the second set and, after levelling the match, Djokovic ultimately cruised to a 2-6 6-3 6-2 6-4 victory.

Novak Djokovic fights back to defeat Cameron Norrie and reach Wimbledon final

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 18:02 , Luke Baker

From midway through the second set it was ruthless from Djokovic and he deservedly won in four sets. He’ll face Nick Kyrgios in Sunday’s final

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 Cameron Norrie - DJOKOVIC WINS TO REACH WIMBLEDON FINAL

Friday 8 July 2022 17:52 , Luke Baker

Here we go, Djokovic serving for the match.

Loose from Norrie as he sprays a forehand wide before a deep return kicks up at Djokovic. 15-15. Hmmm, causal ace down the ‘T’ to follow that. 30-15. That forehand is wide though and the slightest glimmer for Norrie at 30-30!

Another good serve though and now it’s one match point. BIIIIIG serve and Djokovic has done it!

DJOKOVIC BEATS NORRIE AND REACHES THE WIMBLEDON FINAL!

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 5-4 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 17:50 , Luke Baker

Norrie serving to stay in the match.

Big unreturned serve is the perfect start, does likewise on the next point before Djokovic gets on the board as Norrie can’t quite chase down a drop volley. The Serb then goes long off the serve and the home favourite mops up the game. Djokovic will still serve for the match after the changeover and Norrie hasn’t had a look-in at his serve for a couple of sets now.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 5-3 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 17:46 , Luke Baker

Norrie goes long on a second-serve return and looks at his racket in disgust. Wins the next point but an 11th ace of the match gets Djokovic back in front and some punishing groundstrokes simply wear down the underdog for 40-15.

12th ace of the day to finish and he’s a game away...

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 4-3 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 17:43 , Luke Baker

Djokovic works hard to get to a ball, pins Norrie deep and he can’t find the court. 15-15. Norrie’s level has picked up to be fair and a clever backhand moves him ahead in the game.

WHAT A SHOT! A decent attempted pass by Norrie is flicked across court by Djokovic and the Brit somehow chases it down, almost by the umpire’s chair and manages to hit a winner to the near-side. Incredible!

A big serve and that’s another hold. He’s within striking distance but currently can’t lay a glove on the Djokovic serve.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 4-2 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 17:39 , Luke Baker

Following that mammoth game, it’s Djokovic to serve. Will Norrie be able to use the dramatic hold as a springboard to a break?

Errrrm... No, apparently. Absolutely ruthless from Djokovic as he seals a love hold with an ace. Brutal.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 3-2 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 17:32 , Luke Baker

The crowd are desperate for Norrie to stay in this match and they whoop and holler when he overhead smashes a winner on the first point. Yet a lucky net cord for Djokovic sees Norrie boot the ball in frustration and the next point brings more trouble at 15-30.

Djokovic hands him a lifeline with an ill-advised attempted drop shot that doesn’t clear the net before brilliant court coverage from the Serbian star brings up another break point. This could be the match right here.

SAVED! Big-time Norrie forehand for deuce. Stunningly controlled backhand slice volley and it’s break point number two. SAVED again! Big forehand followed by a volleyed put-away.

Drop shot goes awry and Djokovic forces his opponent wide for a THIRD break point. Yet again SAVED! A well-constructed rally and you can’t say Norrie isn’t fighting!

Backhand drifts marginally wide and long. Break point number four... ACE! He’s clinging on... Backhand down the line, right on the chalk finally gives Norrie a game point. Thunderous smash and IT’S THERE! He’s somehow held serve. Standing ovation from the crowd! Phew!

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 3-1 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 17:25 , Luke Baker

Right. Can Norrie at least start making Djokovic think about his serve a little bit.

Unfortunately for the Brit, his forehand has deserted him and it costs him the first point although a sliced backhand helps him win the next for 15-15.

Wide ace followed by one up the ‘T’ and then an unreturned serve and that snuffs out any slight danger in the most emphatic fashion.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 2-1 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 17:21 , Luke Baker

Norrie trying to pump himself up and he produces two big serves to smoothly move 30-0 up.

Then he finds the back-court line with a wound-up forehand. Three game points and Djokovic hits the bottom of the net after a deep backhand for a desperately-needed straightforward service game to love.

If he can start holding more easily, maybe he can take a look at the Djokovic serve?

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 2-0 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 17:19 , Luke Baker

You can feel this match slipping away from Cam Norrie - it’s palpable.

Djokovic completely unruffled and pulls out another gorgeous half-volley to keep control of this game. Norrie not troubling him at all with his groundstrokes. Simple hold to 15.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 1-0 Cameron Norrie - DJOKOVIC BREAKS

Friday 8 July 2022 17:16 , Luke Baker

A Norrie reset needed for this fourth set but it’s deja vu as he finds himself at 30-30 on serve.

A great backhand, right into the back corner of the court ties up Djokovic though. Game point for the Brit... Finds the net on the forehand. Deuce.

He can’t find a first serve either at the moment and Djokovic pounces on a poor drop shot to bring up break point. Great depth on the return from Djokovic and Norrie can’t find the court.

DJOKOVIC BREAKS! He found only two first serves in that game and was rightly punished.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 Cameron Norrie* - DJOKOVIC WINS THIRD SET!

Friday 8 July 2022 17:08 , Luke Baker

Djokovic has looked completely unruffled on serve in this set and that continues. He quickly moves to two set points.

He only needs one! Attacks off the big serve and DJOKOVIC WINS THE THIRD SET!

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 5-2 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 17:04 , Luke Baker

Norrie will just try to make Djokovic serve it out here.

He moves ahead early in the game but misses with a forehand and it’s 30-30... Good hustle! The Brit charges in and sends a Djokovic drop shot to the fence. Djokovic goes long from the next serve and that’s a hold! Better from Norrie.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 5-1 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 17:01 , Luke Baker

Good hustling by Djokovic to chase down a ball at the net, forces Norrie to try and loft the ball over him and he finishes it with a smash.

Great serve to finish the game, a quick hold and he’s on the verge of victory in the third set.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 4-1 Cameron Norrie - DJOKOVIC BREAKS AGAIN!

Friday 8 July 2022 16:56 , Luke Baker

More strife for Norrie on serve as Djokovic fights his way to 30-30.

Groundstrokes traded from the baseline and Norrie eventually nets for a break point. The Brits misses with a backhand, hangs his and Djokovic roars. DJOKOVIC BREAKS for a second time this set.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 3-1 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 16:53 , Luke Baker

Djokovic looking supreme at the moment and although the crowd roar on Norrie when he makes it 15-15, it’s ruthless by the Serb from there as he takes the next three points.

*denotes next to serve

VIDEO: Novak Djokovic produces sublime half-volley

Friday 8 July 2022 16:51 , Luke Baker

Novak Djokovic was at his brilliant best when finishing off this point with a half-volley off the deck

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 2-1 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 16:49 , Luke Baker

This is a must-hold for Norrie - he needs a foothold in this third set.

A ripple of concern through the crowd as he slips to 0-15 but battles his way back to win the next four points. A roar from the supporters as he holds and Norrie gees them up, asking for more noise by flapping his arms.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 2-0 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 16:46 , Luke Baker

Djokovic is in control of this match now. He doesn’t give Norrie a sniff on his serve, dictating the rallies from the baseline and moving him round the court.

An easy hold to love and that’s the break consolidated.

*denotes next to serve

VIDEO: Djokovic pulls out tweener lob!

Friday 8 July 2022 16:45 , Luke Baker

Here is Novak Djokovic’s tweener lob from earlier. A remarkable shot!

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3, 1-0 Cameron Norrie - DJOKOVIC BREAKS

Friday 8 July 2022 16:41 , Luke Baker

Can Norrie reset and get himself back on track in this third set?

It’s a good start as he wins a back-and-forth opening point and then thunders a powerful forehand to make it 30-30. But he’s already under pressure on his serve and one break cost him in the previous set.

And now he faces break point as he goes just long... SAVED! Sends Djokovic sprawling with a forehand and although the Serb still returns it, the smash is good.

Djokovic starting to turn the screw though and outlasts the Brit to bring up another break point. SAVED! again after a big serve sets him up for a forehand winner. Djokovic slips and goes down hard but back up on his feet.

Now a third break point as Norrie nets. No salvation this time as he shanks a forehand well long. DJOKOVIC BREAKS!

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-3 Cameron Norrie* - DJOKOVIC WINS THE SECOND SET!

Friday 8 July 2022 16:30 , Luke Baker

Djokovic serving for the second set here but a couple of mistakes and he slips to 0-30. A real chance for Norrie.

That’s class though, Djokovic turns up the dial and quickly pulls it back to 30-30, before Norrie goes just wide and it’s set point!

Norrie tries to come into the net but sends his approach shot long and that’s the set to the Serbian!

DJOKOVIC WINS THE SECOND SET!

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 5-3 Cameron Norrie - DJOKOVIC BREAKS

Friday 8 July 2022 16:28 , Luke Baker

You can’t say it wasn’t coming. Norrie has been battling to hold serve in this set and he finally falls.

Norrie misses a makeable volley and it’s two break points for Djokovic. He only needs one as a Norrie forehand goes long.

DJOKOVIC BREAKS! He’ll serve for the set

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 4-3 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 16:22 , Luke Baker

Djokovic digs out a supreme half-volley on the backhand side, showing his remarkable touch, and follows that up with a searing forehand winner down the line.

An ace and another simple point makes for a straightforward hold. Business end of the set coming up.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 3-3 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 16:19 , Luke Baker

Each Norrie service game feels like hard work at the moment and he slips to 15-30 with a missed smash. A powerful backhand helps salvage the next point but he then puts a forehand wide. Break point...

Good wide serve, Djokovic’s return is marginally long. SAVED! Another break point comes up but SAVED again as Djokovic nets. Big serve for game point and then Djokovic forced narrowly long. Norrie holds, giving it a fist pump and a “COME ON” - he knows how big that was.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 3-2 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 16:12 , Luke Baker

Norrie puts the first point away at the second opportunity with a big smash before Djokovic moves to 30-15 with consecutive backhands down the line.

He serves it out from there to keep his nose in front. This is shaping up to be a tight set. Djokovic looking more composed now.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 2-2 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 16:08 , Luke Baker

Djokovic looks to be struggling a bit with the angle of Norrie’s serve as he bangs down a big unreturned and then finds a forehand winner.

But Djokovic is battling, moves to 30-30 and Norrie then finds the net with an attempted drop shot to bring up a break point.

A couple of big forehands enables a simple volleyed winner and that’s SAVED! He takes advantage to serve it out and that’s an important hold. Disaster averted

*denotes next to serve

VIDEO: Cameron Norrie seals the first set

Friday 8 July 2022 16:04 , Luke Baker

Here’s how Cam Norrie completed an impressive first set, prevailing 6-2.

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 2-1 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 16:02 , Luke Baker

A simple hold for Djokovic as he completes a victory to love with an overhead smash.

He’s settled into his service games in this second set after being broken on three occasions in the first.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6, 1-1 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 15:59 , Luke Baker

Djokovic misses on the first point and then a thunderous Norrie serve quickly moves him to 30-0. Great point by the Serbian though, dictates the rally and comes into the net to finish it with a well-directed volley.

Norrie then misses a relatively simple sliced backhand when coming in to invite some peril at 30-30. Superb backhand volley brings up game point and that’s the hold! Good work by Norrie.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-6, 1-0 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 15:56 , Luke Baker

Djokovic clearly thinks he’s identified his first-set issue - on goes the cap! A be-capped Djokovic is a dangerous Djokovic, as they say...

Magic cap or not, he plays the first game of the second set like a man angry at finding himself a set down.

Blitzes Norrie with a series of big serves and that’s an emphatic hold to love.

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-6 Cameron Norrie - NORRIE WINS THE FIRST SET!

Friday 8 July 2022 15:52 , Luke Baker

Norrie would love to see this out at the first time of asking.

A great start as he races to 30-0 but throws in a double fault to keep Djokovic alive. A huge ACE in response brings up two set points.

First one is SAVED as Norrie chucks in another double fault but, in a carbon copy of 30 seconds prior, he his and ace and NORRIE WINS THE FIRST SET 6-2!

What a start this is! Barely 30 minutes gone and Norrie is a set to the good. Who saw this coming?

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-5 Cameron Norrie* - NORRIE BREAKS AGAIN

Friday 8 July 2022 15:48 , Luke Baker

An ace down the ‘T’ from Djokovic to open up this suddenly important service game. He can’t get over a forehand though, it drifts wide and Norrie is at 15-30.

Norrie then chases down a Djokovic drop shot and finishes it down the line for two more break points. A double break within sight here... A long rally, Norrie hammering back backhand after backhand and Djokovic nets!

NORRIE BREAKS AGAIN! He’ll now serve for the first set...

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-4 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 15:43 , Luke Baker

Can Norrie consolidate the break this time? A peach of a point to start the game as Djokovic brings Norrie into the net and then puts the volley away.

Good response by the Brit as a searing forehand winner down the line is among three points on the spin to move to 40-15 and Djokovic nets a return to seal the hold. Two games away from the first set...

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-3 Cameron Norrie* - NORRIE BREAKS

Friday 8 July 2022 15:39 , Luke Baker

Norrie does well to stay in a rally and Djokovic eventually nets to give the Brit a look at 30-30.

Then the Serb goes long and it brings up a break point. Good defensive play to stay in the point by Norrie, he goes deep and Djokovic’s return drifts long!

NORRIE BREAKS AGAIN!

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 2-2 Cameron Norrie

Friday 8 July 2022 15:33 , Luke Baker

WHAT A POINT! Norrie lobs Djokovic, who responds with a between-the-legs (tweener) lob sending Norrie backwards. Good return from the Brit but finished at the net by Djokovic. Unbelievable!

Although Norrie wins the next point, he then goes long for 15-30... Grinds his way back into the game to bring up game point before a wide serve is unreturned. Good hold for the British No .

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 2-1 Cameron Norrie*

Friday 8 July 2022 15:30 , Luke Baker

Neither man settled in their opening service game but this is better from Djokovic. Stays ahead of Norrie and a big serve takes him to 40-15. Then seals the game at the first time of asking with a crunching forehand winner.

Much tidier from the reigning champ. Can Norrie respond in kind?

*denotes next to serve

*Novak Djokovic 1-1 Cameron Norrie - DJOKOVIC BREAKS BACK

Friday 8 July 2022 15:27 , Luke Baker

Important for Norrie to consolidate the break here but he slips to 15-30 and then fins the net with a backhand to bring up two break points for Djokovic.

Tries to be aggressive with a mid-court forehand but slams it into the net and DJOKOVIC BREAKS back immediately.

*denotes next to serve

Novak Djokovic 0-1 Cameron Norrie* - NORRIE BREAKS

Friday 8 July 2022 15:24 , Luke Baker

And we’re off!

How about this for a start for Norrie - goes toe to toe with Djokovic on the opening point and then sees the Serb go long on the second for 0-30. Djokovic gets one on the board but then finds the net and it’s 15-40. Two break points for the Brit.

Goes just long with the first but he takes the second! A brilliant backhand gets Djokovic running and after some net exchanges, Norrie passes him. Superb start

NORRIE GETS THE BREAK!

*denotes next to serve

Cameron Norrie vs Novak Djokovic

Friday 8 July 2022 15:19 , Luke Baker

Warm-ups more or less done - we’ll be underway imminently.

Cameron Norrie vs Novak Djokovic

Friday 8 July 2022 15:15 , Luke Baker

Here comes Novak! Norrie waiting about four minutes or so in the holding area.

The players are now on court!

Cameron Norrie vs Novak Djokovic

Friday 8 July 2022 15:09 , Luke Baker

Cam Norrie is out of his dressing room and just in the holding area before coming on court. Novak Djokovic using his veteran savvy to make him wait a little bit.

Then the players will walk out on to Centre Court together.

We’re getting close. Can Norrie cause the upset and become just the second Brit in the open era to reach the Wimbledon men’s singles final?

Sleepless night for Nick Kyrgios after Wimbledon final spot was confirmed

Friday 8 July 2022 15:05 , Luke Baker

Nick Kyrgios admitted he could not sleep after hearing the news that he is a Wimbledon finalist.

Rafael Nadal, Kyrgios’ semi-final opponent, stunned the Championships on Thursday evening when he revealed he would have to withdraw from the match due to his abdominal injury.

The Spaniard’s decision comes as a huge blow to the tournament, robbing it of one of the most highly-anticipated matches of the year.

Instead controversial Australian Kyrgios, the world number 40, was handed a walkover and will take on either Novak Djokovic or Cameron Norrie on Sunday for the Wimbledon title.

“I found out last night at dinner,” said Kyrgios. “Honestly my first feeling was a bit of disappointment.”

Sleepless night for Nick Kyrgios after Wimbledon final spot was confirmed

Lyudmyla Kichenok/Jelena Ostapenko vs Barbora Krejcikova/Katerina Siniakova update

Friday 8 July 2022 15:01 , Luke Baker

The women’s doubles semi-final has finished, so Cameron Norrie and Novak Djokovic will be on court imminently.

The Czech pair of Krejcikova and Siniakova triumphed 6-2, 6- to book their place in the final.

It’s Djokovic vs Norrie time!

Cameron Norrie’s rise to the top of tennis ‘no fluke’, coach insists

Friday 8 July 2022 15:01 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie should believe he can upset Novak Djokovic and reach the Wimbledon final according to coach James Trotman, who has seen him develop from a green teenager into one of the world’s best players.

Trotman was the coach who worked with Norrie after he made the decision a decade ago to switch allegiance to Great Britain, moving more than 10,000 miles from his home in Auckland, New Zealand to London.

Norrie opted to continue his peripatetic tennis journey by moving to the US and studying at Texas Christian University but has kept Trotman as part of his team throughout.

“It was a massive change for him, leaving home, it was a huge decision,” said Trotman.

“Honestly, if you could see that 17-year-old now compared to the person you talk to and the clarity he has on who he is and what he wants to become and how he’s going to go about it, it’s phenomenal.

“I’ve been around a lot of very good players. Just watching Cam’s pre-season training for the last four, five years, the work he puts through his body, how much he’s pushing himself, there wouldn’t be too many players that are doing a similar kind of job. It’s pretty incredible.”

Cameron Norrie’s rise to the top of tennis ‘no fluke’, coach insists

I’m going to take it to him: Cameron Norrie out to end Novak Djokovic dominance

Friday 8 July 2022 14:56 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie hopes his quest for relentless improvement can carry him to a first Wimbledon final.

The British number one has made a habit of surprising people over the past 18 months but all those achievements would be overshadowed spectacularly should he defeat Novak Djokovic in the last four on Friday.

For a player who found full-time tennis overwhelming when he moved from his home in Auckland, New Zealand to London as a teenager and made it to the professional game via US college, there is a real appreciation for what this fortnight has brought so far.

“It’s very cool, especially when I made the quarter-finals the other day,” he said. “I was thinking about when I was a kid and watching guys on TV making the quarter-finals and thinking, ‘Wow, this looks so tough to do, and there’s almost zero chance I’m going to do that’.

“But just to actually be doing it and to be living it and experiencing it is very cool and pretty crazy, actually. And now I have gone one further in the semis, so I think can take a lot of confidence from that.”

I’m going to take it to him: Cameron Norrie out to end Novak Djokovic dominance

All the best celebrity looks at Wimbledon

Friday 8 July 2022 14:49 , Luke Baker

All eyes have been on the tennis, as Wimbledon marked a triumphant return to full crowds.

And yet we’ve also been keeping a close look at the stands, which were typically full of celebrities keen to show off their fanciest tennis-appropriate outfits…

All of the best celebrity looks from Wimbledon

Wimbledon protest to be held over players having to wear white while on their periods

Friday 8 July 2022 14:38 , Luke Baker

Protesters are due to hold a protest outside the Wimbledon ladies singles final over the tennis tournament’s long-standing dress code which forces players to wear white on their periods.

Female tennis players have recently been calling for the strict all-white dress code which dates back to 1877 to be overhauled - explaining some players choose to skip their periods due to anxiety around leaking onto their clothes while competing.

Wimbledon was initially launched only for men, with women only allowed to compete seven years later.

Demonstrators will gather for a small protest organised by activists outside the main gates at the All England Club on Saturday, The Telegraph reports.

“These archaic rules were written years ago by men and they have gotten stricter and stricter over the years,” Gabriella Holmes, one of the co-founders of a campaign launched this week urging Wimbledon to ‘Address The Dress Code’, told the paper.

Wimbledon protest to be held over players having to wear white while on their periods

Lyudmyla Kichenok/Jelena Ostapenko vs Barbora Krejcikova/Katerina Siniakova update

Friday 8 July 2022 14:29 , Luke Baker

An update from Centre Court and the women’s doubles semi-final. Krejcikova and Siniakova have taken the first set 6-2 and it’s on serve at 1-1 early in the second.

The Czech duo are halfway to victory and Norrie vs Djokovic will follow that match.

On Court 1, in the men’s wheelchair singles semi-finals, Gustavo Fernandez is on the brink of glory against second-seeded Brit Alfie Hewett - leading 6-2, 5-2.

Fans ‘nervous and excited’ as Norrie takes on Djokovic in Wimbledon semi-final

Friday 8 July 2022 14:28 , Luke Baker

Fans at Wimbledon say they are “nervous” but “very excited” for Cameron Norrie as he heads into the semi-final.

The 26-year-old is set for a tough match against top seed Novak Djokovic on Centre Court on Friday afternoon.

Crowds of people have been lining up in the queue for tickets to the SW19 grounds, with many saying they have come just to cheer on the British number one.

But some said they were disappointed that the semi-final between Australian Nick Kyrgios and Rafael Nadal is not going ahead after the Spaniard pulled out on Thursday due to an abdominal injury.

Jack Manuel, 29, from Streatham, and Harry Mobbs, 28, from London Bridge, said they had come to watch Norrie, adding: “Big up the GBR.”

Fans ‘nervous and excited’ as Norrie takes on Djokovic in Wimbledon semi-final

Cameron Norrie: How Britain’s home hope ‘squeezed the lemon’ on road to Wimbledon semi-finals

Friday 8 July 2022 14:17 , Luke Baker

“It’s pretty interesting,” Cameron Norrie replied, as the British No 1 and the hope of Wimbledon was asked how British he really felt, writes Jamie Braidwood.

A tennis player born in South Africa to a Welsh mother and Scottish father, raised in New Zealand and whose college education took him to the United States now carries the weight of a nation at the All England Club. As the question implied, though, which one? “My background is obviously from various places,” Norrie went on. “But I’m living here, based here...”

There would be no question as the emotion poured out on Court No 1, following Norrie’s stunning five-set victory over David Goffin in the quarter-finals. It means there will be a British semi-finalist at Wimbledon, with Norrie becoming just the fourth man in the open era to reach the final four of the Championships.

Standing in his way is the six-time champion Novak Djokovic, who has extended his five-year winning run at Wimbledon to 26 matches. Norrie, the unassuming 26-year-old, can no longer attempt to fly under the spotlight that his unheralded rise to the top level of the sport had yet to grab.

That will now change. Norrie arrived in SW19 as the top-ranked home player but found himself opening his tournament out on Court No 2 at 11am, while centre stage was reserved for Andy Murray and Emma Raducanu. Not that he complained. Norrie does not seek attention or headlines. He does not have a flashy game and it is rather his work ethic and diligence in improving his fitness that helped fuel his rise through the rankings.

How Cameron Norrie ‘squeezed the lemon’ on road less travelled to Wimbledon semis

‘He’s a dog now’: Cameron Norrie’s coach on his ‘chicken’s’ rise to the top

Friday 8 July 2022 14:09 , Luke Baker

Facundo Lugones and Cameron Norrie have come a long way since the rookie Argentinian coach guided his ‘chicken’ through the lower rungs of professional tennis.

Lugones and Norrie have worked together ever since meeting through the tennis programme at Texas Christian University, with coach and player learning together.

Now the duo can celebrate a huge milestone as Norrie prepares to take on Novak Djokovic in his first grand slam semi-final at Wimbledon on Friday.

“In Argentina when you’re taking care of someone, you call them your chicken,” said Lugones.

“When I started traveling with him, all my friends would ask me, ‘How is your chicken doing?’ He became a dog now. He’s not a chicken any more.”

‘He’s a dog now’: Cameron Norrie’s coach on his ‘chicken’s’ rise to the top

You never want to train with Cameron Norrie, says Laura Robson

Friday 8 July 2022 14:00 , Luke Baker

Laura Robson has experienced first hand the relentless approach and competitive zeal of Cameron Norrie that has carried him to the Wimbledon semi-finals.

“I just remember a couple years ago, we were doing the off-season in Florida and we had a games morning with all the Brits involved,” said former British number one Robson.

“And there’s one game that we played where you hit a ball and everyone rotates. You’ve got to have eight people on each side and, you miss the ball, you’re out of the team.

“And at one point there were five people on one side with just Cam on his own and he just refused to miss. He ended up winning the game and just wore everyone down. And I think that’s sort of him in a nutshell, isn’t it?

“He’s someone that no one ever wants to train with. Because he just runs you. And, especially the track sessions, he just kills everyone.”

You never want to train with Cameron Norrie, says Laura Robson

Girlfriend praises ‘easy-going’ Cameron Norrie ahead of Wimbledon semi-final

Friday 8 July 2022 13:51 , Luke Baker

The girlfriend of Britain’s Wimbledon hero Cameron Norrie has spoken about their romance and what he is like off the court for the first time.

American entrepreneur Louise Jacobi, 32, said she met the UK’s top tennis player at a New York bar three years ago and has been travelling around the world to support him ever since.

Ms Jacobi was in tears after watching her boyfriend defeat Belgium’s David Goffin in front of thousands of spectators including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on Tuesday.

Speaking to the PA news agency the next day, she said: “It was surreal. When your significant other is crying in front of you – like choking up – how could I keep a dry eye?

“I remember him saying when we first met: ‘Oh, my dream would be to be in the top 10.’

“Back then I didn’t know it was going to transpire, and just watching his hard work pay off has been insane.”

Cameron Norrie’s father opens up on ‘torture’ of watching Wimbledon quarter-final

Friday 8 July 2022 13:42 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie’s father said watching his son’s final game in the Wimbledon quarter-final was “torture”.

His son has kept hopes alive of a third home win in the Wimbledon men’s singles in a decade with a dramatic five-set victory over Belgium’s David Goffin in the quarter-finals on Tuesday.

The ninth seed twice recovered from going a set down to claim a 3-6 7-5 2-6 6-3 7-5 victory on a raucous No 1 Court and become only the fourth British man in the Open era to reach the last four at the All England Club.

The 26-year-old will now face top seed Novak Djokovic in the semi-final later this week.

David Norrie, a microbiologist originally from Glasgow, said he struggled to watch the final points of his son’s match on Tuesday.

Cameron Norrie’s father opens up on ‘torture’ of watching Wimbledon quarter-final

Cameron Norrie joins list of Open era British men’s semi-finalists at Wimbledon

Friday 8 July 2022 13:33 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie has become only the fourth British man to reach the semi-finals at Wimbledon in the Open era.

The British number one beat Belgium’s David Goffin in five sets and will face defending champion Novak Djokovic in the last four.

Here, the PA news agency looks at Britain’s previous three male semi-finalists.

Cameron Norrie joins list of Open era British men’s semi-finalists at Wimbledon

Cameron Norrie vs Novak Djokovic

Friday 8 July 2022 13:25 , Luke Baker

Normally, Cam Norrie and Novak Djokovic would be walking on to court in about five minutes or so to start the warm-up for their semi-final but, given the second men’s semi-final will not take place due to Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal, things have been rejigged today on Centre.

The women’s doubles semi-final - Lyudmyla Kichenok / Jelena Ostapenko vs Barbora Krejcikova / Katerina Siniakova - will start at 1.30pm, with Norrie vs Djokovic following that. It cannot start before 2.30pm but in all likelihood will be closer to, or even beyond, 3pm.

We’ll keep you intermittently updated on Kichenok/ Ostapenko vs Krejcikova/Siniakova but mainly continue with our build-up to the men’s semi-final.

Wimbledon 2022 prize money: How much do players earn round-by-round?

Friday 8 July 2022 13:18 , Luke Baker

The return to full capacity at Wimbledon for the first time in three years also sees players earning a record amount of prize money.

A total prize pot of £40m is on offer at the Championships, marking a 15% increase from last year’s tournament, when Novak Djokovic and Ashleigh Barty claimed £1.7m each for winning the singles.

This year, the winners of the men’s and women’s singles will take home a cheque for £2m, while the runners-up will claim £1.05m.

The prize money grows in accordance with how far a player advances in the tournament but there is still a guaranteed £50,000 for every competitor who made it into the main singles draw.

The prize money in the doubles is significantly reduced, with the winning team sharing £540,000, while the mixed doubles champions will win £124,000. See the full prize money breakdown below:

Wimbledon 2022 prize money: How much do players earn round-by-round?

Ajla Tomljanovic says she did not experience domestic violence with Nick Kyrgios

Friday 8 July 2022 13:10 , Luke Baker

Ajla Tomljanovic has revealed she did not experience domestic violence with her ex-boyfriend Nick Kyrgios.

The Croatian-born Australian’s relationship with Kyrgios is said to have ended in 2018.

Kyrgios, who on Wednesday reached the Wimbledon semi-finals, has been summoned to appear in a Canberra court back home in Australia next month amid allegations of common assault against his ex-partner Chiara Passari.

Tomljanovic was asked about the allegations in a press conference on Wednesday after she lost her quarter-final match against Elena Rybakina.

At first, the 29-year-old told reporters that she had not heard about the assault allegations.

She then said: “It’s been a while since our relationship ended so obviously I’ve always kept my relationship very private and I would like to keep it like that.

“I’m definitely against domestic violence and I hope it gets resolved, but yeah I mean haven’t had that experience with him.”

Nick Kyrgios: Assault allegations made it ‘hard to focus’ ahead of Wimbledon quarter-final

Friday 8 July 2022 13:03 , Luke Baker

Nick Kyrgios said the assault charge he is facing made it “hard to focus” ahead of his quarter-final.

It emerged on Tuesday that the Australian tennis player has been summoned to appear in a Canberra court on 2 August over allegations of common assault against his ex-girlfriend Chiara Passari.

Speaking after his victory over Chile’s Cristian Garin in straight sets in the quarter-finals on Wednesday, Kyrgios said he had “things I want to say” but had been advised not to by his lawyer.

“Obviously I have a lot of thoughts and things I want to say, you know kind of my side about it but obviously I’ve being advised by lawyers that I’m unable to say anything at this time,” he said.

“So I understand that everyone wants to kind of ask about it and all that but I can’t give you too much on that right now.”

Nick Kyrgios: Assault allegations made it ‘hard to focus’ at Wimbledon

Wimbledon security guards arrested after fight over lunch break at All England Club

Friday 8 July 2022 12:55 , Luke Baker

Three Wimbledon security guards were arrested on Friday after an alleged fight broke out between them on the grounds of the All England Club.

The fight between the employees of Knights Group Security, the company Wimbledon uses for security at the tournament, was reportedly over one guard’s extended three-hour break.

A spectactor was heard calling for security before realising who was involved. Police officers arrived on the scene to break up the dispute and all three men were taking into custody, and bailed until later this month.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: “At 2pm on Friday, 1 July, officers on duty at the Wimbledon tennis championships were alerted to an altercation within the grounds. Officers attended and three men working at the event were arrested on suspicion of affray. There were no reports of any injuries. They were taken into custody and were later bailed until a date in late July.”

Emma Raducanu told to get advice from Maria Sharapova on dealing with the spotlight

Friday 8 July 2022 12:48 , Luke Baker

Emma Raducanu should seek advice from Maria Sharapova about how to handle fame and expectations, according to former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli.

Having lost in the second round on her second appearance at the All England Club, Raducanu will begin the build-up to her defence of the US Open title that rocketed her to stardom.

Sharapova experienced something similar after winning Wimbledon aged 17 but balanced demands on and off the court very effectively through her career, going on to win four more grand slam titles before retiring two years ago.

Raducanu shrugged off talk of pressure after losing to Caroline Garcia last week but, having gained A-list celebrity status and signed a raft of high-end sponsorship deals, the attention surrounding her is only set to increase.

Bartoli said: “For Emma, because she won so young, obviously with all the contracts and sponsorships she has signed, the pressure she has to face – I mean, I cannot start to imagine it.

“It is so massive. It takes someone so special to handle it. She probably should maybe get some advice from Maria Sharapova, who has been able to do it. It took Maria a little bit of time before she got the second one (grand slam) but then she went on to five in total.”

Emma Raducanu told to get advice from Maria Sharapova on dealing with the spotlight

Andy Murray gets tennis-themed manicure at Wimbledon

Friday 8 July 2022 12:41 , Luke Baker

Celebrity manicurist Michelle Humphrey gave Andy Murray a manicure with his very own nail designs during Wimbledon, it has been revealed.

Humphrey, whose work has been featured on the digits of Dua Lipa, Cate Blanchett, Katy Perry, and, most recently, Adele, tells The Independent that creating the exclusive nail designs with the tennis star was “really special”.

Murray showed off his manicure, which included a tennis ball design on his ring finger, on his Twitter account ahead of his first match at SW19.

The designs were created for the American Express Fan Experience at Wimbledon and fashioned with gender neutrality in mind.

Humphrey says that the three-time Grand Slam winner “even ended up playing a couple of games” with his freshly-painted nails.

Full story:

Andy Murray gets tennis nails by celeb manicurist Michelle Humphrey

Smiling Sir Keir Starmer among guests in the Royal Box at Wimbledon yesterday

Friday 8 July 2022 12:34 , Luke Baker

Sir Keir Starmer and former leader of the Conservative party, William Hague, were just some of the public figures in yesterday’s Royal Box at Wimbledon.

On one of the most turbulent days in UK political history, which saw prime minister Boris Johnson resign following the resignation of almost 60 MPs, the two political leaders looked relaxed in the sunshine and watched the events unfold on day 11 of the tennis championship.

Starmer arrived at the SW19 grounds after midday on Thursday to watch matches on Centre Court. He was seen kissing his wife Victoria ahead of the women’s semi-final match between Tunisian player Ons Jabeur and Germany’s Tatjana Maria.

The Royal Box, which is located on Centre Court at the legendary SW19 sports venue, has 74 seats reserved for the royal family and invited guests of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC).

Smiling Sir Keir Starmer among guests in Royal Box at Wimbledon today

Britain’s Neal Skupski and American Desirae Krawczyk retain mixed doubles title

Friday 8 July 2022 12:27 , Luke Baker

Britain’s Neal Skupski and American Desirae Krawczyk successfully defended their mixed doubles title at Wimbledon with victory over Australian duo Matt Ebden and Sam Stosur.

Skupski and Krawczyk claimed a 6-4 6-3 win on Centre Court to become the first pair since Cyril Suk and Helena Sukova 25 years ago to win back-to-back mixed titles at Wimbledon.

It is a second grand slam crown for 32-year-old Liverpudlian Skupski and a fourth for 28-year-old Krawczyk, who also won the French Open and US Open titles last year with Britain’s Joe Salisbury.

Skupski revealed afterwards they were not even intending to play together, with Krawczyk teaming up again with Salisbury, only for the latter to decide not to play mixed.

That left Skupski facing an awkward conversation with Canadian Gaby Dabrowski, who he had planned to play with.

Britain’s Neal Skupski and American Desirae Krawczyk retain mixed doubles title

Elena Rybakina: How is a Russian-born player in the Wimbledon final?

Friday 8 July 2022 12:20 , Luke Baker

A Wimbledon which has seen Russian players banned from competing could yet see a Russian-born winner, after Elena Rybakina advanced to Saturday’s women’s final and moved one match away from victory at the All England Club.

Rybakina, who was born in Moscow but now represents Kazakhstan after switching international allegiances four years ago, crushed former Wimbledon champion Simona Halep in straight sets in the semi-finals to set up a meeting with Ons Jabeur.

The 23-year-old will be competing in her first grand slam final but her tournament run at SW19 could come as a huge embarrassment to the All England Club, who took the decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus from the Championships following the invasion of Ukraine.

Rybakina first represented Kazakhstan four years ago after accepting financial support from the country to help her tennis career. She also competed under the Kazakhstan flag at the Olympic Games in Tokyo last year but when asked whether she felt Kazakh or Russia this week, the world number 23 said it was “tough” to say.

Elena Rybakina: How is a Russian-born player in the Wimbledon final?

Impressive Elena Rybakina overpowers Simona Halep to set up Ons Jabeur Wimbledon final

Friday 8 July 2022 12:12 , Luke Baker

There will be a first-time grand slam champion at Wimbledon after Elena Rybakina powered Simona Halep off the court to set up a final against Ons Jabeur, writes Jamie Braidwood.

Two first-time finalists, in fact, but there was no evidence of the relative inexperience of the 23-year-old Rybakina as she took on Halep in a brutal contest of baseline hitting on Centre Court and emerged with the biggest victory of her career so far.

It brings an end to Halep’s 12-match winning streak at the All England Club, a run that stretches back to the 2019 title she was unable to defend last year. While it had looked this week that the former world No 1 was returning to that imperious form, the shocking power of Rybakina’s groundstrokes from the back of the court shattered her resurgence and a crisis of double faults sealed her fate down the stretch.

You could not have asked for a clearer contrast of semi-finals on Centre Court, after Jabeur was victorious in the contest of angles, spins and slices in taking down her close friend Tatjana Maria earlier in the afternoon. There was little room for deftness of touch here, as the tall and elegant Rybakina displayed crushing power on what is just her second appearance at SW19.

Impressive Elena Rybakina overpowers Simona Halep to set up Ons Jabeur final

Ons Jabeur hopes to inspire Tunisians, Arabs and Africans with Wimbledon run

Friday 8 July 2022 12:01 , Luke Baker

Trailblazer Ons Jabeur hopes her run to the Wimbledon final will inspire many others from Arab countries and the African continent to reach for the stars.

A 6-2 3-6 6-1 win over “barbeque buddy” Tatjana Maria in the semi-finals at the All England Club on Thursday put the Tunisian within touching distance of a slice of history.

There has never been a female singles winner of a grand-slam from an Arab country or Africa, but Jabeur is on course to break new ground in SW19.

Victory in one hour and 43 minutes extended the fine run of the third seed, who has now won 11 matches in a row on grass and will face Elena Rybakina in Saturday’s final.

Jabeur said: “I want to go bigger, inspire many more generations. Tunisia is connected to the Arab world, is connected to the African continent. The area, we want to see more players.”

Ons Jabeur hopes to inspire Tunisians, Arabs and Africans with Wimbledon run

Ons Jabeur resists Tatjana Maria comeback to reach historic Wimbledon final

Friday 8 July 2022 11:52 , Luke Baker

In the meeting of close friends and amid a backdrop of wholesome vibes on Centre Court, it was Ons Jabeur who was able to balance a clinical and creative game to put away Tatjana Maria and reach the Wimbledon final, writes Jamie Braidwood.

A semi-final between two players with remarkable stories, and the humility to recognise each other’s achievements, also led to an entertaining duel of slice, spin and angles, eventually won by the world No 2 Jabeur 6-2 3-6 6-1 in an hour and 43 minutes.

In doing so, Jabeur becomes the first woman from Africa and first Arab player to reach a grand slam final, where she will face Elena Rybakina on Saturday. The Tunisian’s early form at the All England Club set her out as a contender for the title, even before Iga Swiatek’s exit, and although she was favourite to defeat the world No 103 Maria, the German mother-of-two loves a comeback and refused to be counted out.

Not only had Maria returned twice to the sport after giving birth, the latest just last year, but she has also fought from a set down three times in reaching the semi-finals as a 34-year-old. Only Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, Venus Williams and Serena Williams are able to say the same, and her resilience forced a deciding set and ensured a fun and engaging semi-final also developed a competitive edge.

Ons Jabeur resists Tatjana Maria comeback to reach historic Wimbledon final

Novak Djokovic’s toilet break helped inspire quarter-final comeback

Friday 8 July 2022 11:45 , Luke Baker

Novak Djokovic stayed on course to reclaim his place on the Wimbledon throne after a pep talk in the toilet.

The defending champion’s bid for a fourth consecutive title was heading down the pan when Italian youngster Jannik Sinner won the first two sets.

But for the seventh time in his career, 20-time grand slam winner Djokovic overturned a two-set deficit to win 5-7 2-6 6-3 6-2 6-2.

Djokovic said: “He was the better player for the first two sets, but I had a toilet break and a pep talk in the mirror – it’s true – sometimes these things are necessary. The toilet break was the turning point.

“There was no aggression there. It was just a pep talk, a positive talk. As negative and down you feel on yourself in those moments, it really gives you an effect.”

Novak Djokovic’s toilet break helped inspire quarter-final comeback

Novak Djokovic produces epic five-set comeback to defeat Jannik Sinner and reach Wimbledon semi-finals

Friday 8 July 2022 11:33 , Luke Baker

Novak Djokovic stared into the brink as the bombardment from the fearless Jannik Sinner threatened to shatter his aura of invincibility at Wimbledon, writes Jamie Braidwood.

He stared at himself, in fact, in the bathroom mirror and at two sets down. He emerged, shaken but unscathed, battling to extend his unbeaten streak at the Championships to 26 matches and keep his title defence alive, but only after the 20-year-old Italian gave him the mightiest of scares.

Djokovic shot a cold and lingering look down the other end of Centre Court as Sinner stormed into a shock but deserved two-set lead. Djokovic’s form at SW19 and the level he had reached through his opening four victories put the notion of an upset like this out of the realms of possibility, but until now no player had been unable to match his hitting in the baseline rallies.

For a while, Sinner did more than that. Djokovic said he sees himself in Sinner’s game and in the contest of two similar arsenals, it was the Italian who executed better in the opening exchanges after a nervy start.

Djokovic did not flinch. He faced Sinner from the back of the court and found cleaner hitting, while taking advantage of the signs of inexperience that were beginning to bubble from under Sinner’s cool surface.

Djokovic found his edge, too, turning to the Centre Court crowd and raising his arms as the cracks appeared in the Sinner game. Djokovic needed to dig deep and appeared to motivate himself by reprising his role as villain, and it led to the 35-year-old returning to his steely best to grind Sinner down and book his place in the semi-finals.

Novak Djokovic produces epic comeback to defeat Jannik Sinner and reach semi-finals

Cameron Norrie ready for ‘toughest task in tennis’ against Novak Djokovic

Friday 8 July 2022 11:24 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie soaked in the biggest moment of his career after reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals in dramatic fashion then backed himself to defeat Novak Djokovic.

The ninth seed twice recovered from a set down to claim a 3-6 7-5 2-6 6-3 7-5 victory over Belgian David Goffin on a raucous Court One and become only the fourth British man in the Open era to reach the last four at the All England Club.

Norrie is not prone to great shows of emotion but he struggled to get the words out during his post-match interview.

“Just all the hard work and the sacrifices and everything kind of all hit me at once,” he said. “Especially the situation, here at Wimbledon in front of my family, my friends, and obviously a lot of people following that match.

“(I) got emotional there and (it was) just a crazy day and crazy match to get through, especially with the way that it started. That’s the reason why you play the sport.”

Cameron Norrie ready for ‘toughest task in tennis’ against Novak Djokovic

Cameron Norrie’s rise to the top of tennis ‘no fluke’, coach insists

Friday 8 July 2022 11:13 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie should believe he can upset Novak Djokovic and reach the Wimbledon final according to coach James Trotman, who has seen him develop from a green teenager into one of the world’s best players.

Trotman was the coach who worked with Norrie after he made the decision a decade ago to switch allegiance to Great Britain, moving more than 10,000 miles from his home in Auckland, New Zealand to London.

Norrie opted to continue his peripatetic tennis journey by moving to the US and studying at Texas Christian University but has kept Trotman as part of his team throughout.

“It was a massive change for him, leaving home, it was a huge decision,” said Trotman.

“Honestly, if you could see that 17-year-old now compared to the person you talk to and the clarity he has on who he is and what he wants to become and how he’s going to go about it, it’s phenomenal.

“I’ve been around a lot of very good players. Just watching Cam’s pre-season training for the last four, five years, the work he puts through his body, how much he’s pushing himself, there wouldn’t be too many players that are doing a similar kind of job. It’s pretty incredible.”

Cameron Norrie’s rise to the top of tennis ‘no fluke’, coach insists

I’m going to take it to him: Cameron Norrie out to end Novak Djokovic dominance

Friday 8 July 2022 11:03 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie hopes his quest for relentless improvement can carry him to a first Wimbledon final.

The British number one has made a habit of surprising people over the past 18 months but all those achievements would be overshadowed spectacularly should he defeat Novak Djokovic in the last four on Friday.

For a player who found full-time tennis overwhelming when he moved from his home in Auckland, New Zealand to London as a teenager and made it to the professional game via US college, there is a real appreciation for what this fortnight has brought so far.

“It’s very cool, especially when I made the quarter-finals the other day,” he said. “I was thinking about when I was a kid and watching guys on TV making the quarter-finals and thinking, ‘Wow, this looks so tough to do, and there’s almost zero chance I’m going to do that’.

“But just to actually be doing it and to be living it and experiencing it is very cool and pretty crazy, actually. And now I have gone one further in the semis, so I think can take a lot of confidence from that.”

I’m going to take it to him: Cameron Norrie out to end Novak Djokovic dominance

Anticipation builds as Cameron Norrie faces biggest match of career at Wimbledon

Friday 8 July 2022 10:54 , Luke Baker

Anticipation is building as British tennis number one Cameron Norrie faces the biggest match of his career.

The 26-year-old is set for a tough semi-final against top seed Novak Djokovic on Centre Court on Friday afternoon.

Norrie is the fourth British man in the Open era to ever reach the last four at the All England Club.

His profile has sky-rocketed during the tournament, with some fans rechristening the famous Wimbledon hill Norrie Knoll.

Speaking after his victory over Belgium’s David Goffin on Tuesday, Norrie backed himself to defeat Djokovic.

Anticipation builds as Cameron Norrie faces biggest match of career at Wimbledon

Cameron Norrie vs Novak Djokovic

Friday 8 July 2022 10:45 , Luke Baker

There are plenty of narratives surrounding today’s men’s semi-final as the home favourite - having reached this stage of a grand slam for the first time - faces one of the greatest players in history, who happens to be on a 26-match win streak at Wimbledon...

Norrie is undoubtedly the underdog but he’s a dog who can bite, having improved rapidly over the last 18 months.

Let’s take a look at some of the pre-match talk from, and about, both camps.

Wimbledon day 12: Cameron Norrie takes on Novak Djokovic as Nick Kyrgios awaits

Friday 8 July 2022 10:36 , Luke Baker

Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal from Wimbledon late on Thursday night leaves Cameron Norrie’s clash with Novak Djokovic as the only men’s semi-final on day 12 at SW19.

Home favourite Norrie was set to open on Centre Court by facing the 20-time grand-slam champion, but will now play second on the 15,000-seater venue with two women’s doubles ties sandwiching the last-four encounter.

Nick Kyrgios can put his feet up and relax while he awaits his Sunday opponent as Norrie bids to become only the third British singles player of the 21st century to reach a grand slam final.

Here, the PA news agency looks ahead to Friday in SW19:

Wimbledon day 12: Cameron Norrie takes on Novak Djokovic as Nick Kyrgios awaits

Rafael Nadal withdraws from Wimbledon semi-final with Nick Kyrgios due to abdominal injury

Friday 8 July 2022 10:28 , Luke Baker

Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from his Wimbledon semi-final against Nick Kyrgios due to injury.

Nadal played through pain and defied the pleas of his family to quit during his five-set win over Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals.

The 36-year-old revealed an abdominal injury had got “much worse” during Wednesday’s match, with the Spaniard unsure if he would be fit enough to face Kyrgios on Friday.

Nadal underwent a scan on Thursday and although he appeared on the practice courts at the All England Club that afternoon and took part in a light session, he later confirmed at a press conference that he had suffered a tear to his abdominal muscle.

Nadal’s withdrawal means Kyrgios progresses as a walkover and the Australian will play either Novak Djokovic or Britain’s Cameron Norrie in Sunday’s men’s final.

Rafael Nadal withdraws from Wimbledon semi-final with Nick Kyrgios due to injury

Cameron Norrie vs Novak Djokovic start time: Wimbledon semi-final schedule and how to watch online and on TV

Friday 8 July 2022 10:18 , Luke Baker

Cameron Norrie faces the “toughest task in tennis” as he takes on six-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals today.

Norrie became just the fourth British man to reach the semi-finals of Wimbledon in the open era as he battled to defeat David Goffin in a five-set thriller.

The British No 1 is on an incredible run and is through to the first semi-final of his career, but faces the daunting mission of ending Djokovic’s 26-match win streak at the All England Club.

Djokovic has not lost a match at Wimbledon since 2017 and fought from two sets down to defeat Jannik Sinner in the quarter-finals on Tuesday. “I think it’s obviously one of the toughest tasks in tennis,” Norrie said. “I’d say grass is his favorite surface and his record is unbelievable here at Wimbledon.”

Here’s everything you need to know:

What time does Cameron Norrie vs Novak Djokovic start at Wimbledon today?

Wimbledon order of play for Day 12

Friday 8 July 2022 10:10 , Luke Baker

So here’s today’s order of play. With Nadal withdrawing through injury, the organisers have shuffled things around on Centre Court a bit with a women’s doubles semi-final on first.

It means Djokovic vs Norrie won’t be before 2.30pm and could be closer to 3pm, or even after, depending how deep the women’s doubles semi goes.

Wimbledon full order of play for Day 12

CENTRE COURT - 1:30PM

1. Lyudmyla Kichenok / Jelena Ostapenko v Barbora Krejcikova / Katerina Siniakova

Not Before: 2:30pm

2. Novak Djokovic v Cameron Norrie

Not Before: 4:00pm

3. Elise Mertens / Shuai Zhang v Danielle Collins / Desirae Krawczyk

NO.1 COURT - 1:00PM

1. Gustavo Fernandez v Alfie Hewett

2. Kim Clijsters / Martina Hingis v Vania King / Yaroslava Shvedova

3. Alfie Hewett / Gordon Reid v Tom Egberink / Joachim Gerard

NO.3 COURT - 11:00AM

1. Fernando Gonzalez / Sebastien Grosjean v Jonathan Marray / Frederik Nielsen

Not Before: 12:00pm

2. Diede De Groot v Momoko Ohtani

3. Yui Kamiji / Dana Mathewson v Kgothatso Montjane / Lucy Shuker

4. Marcos Baghdatis / Xavier Malisse v James Blake / Daniel Nestor

COURT 12 - 11:00AM

1. Casey Dellacqua / Alicia Molik v Flavia Pennetta / Francesca Schiavone

2. Mili Poljicak v Pedro Rodenas

3. Luca Udvardy v Linda Klimovicova

4. Gabriel Debru / Paul Inchauspe v Jakub Mensik / Olaf Pieczkowski

COURT 18 - 11:00AM

1. Liv Hovde v Victoria Mboko

2. Michael Zheng v Martin Landaluce

3. Lucija Ciric Bagaric / Nikola Daubnerova v Rose Marie Nijkamp / Angella Okutoyi

4. Nikola Bartunkova / Celine Naef v Kayla Cross / Victoria Mboko

5. Martin Landaluce / Pedro Rodenas v Sebastian Gorzny / Alex Michelsen

Wimbledon 2022 - Day 12

Friday 8 July 2022 09:56 , Luke Baker

Welcome to The Independent’s live coverage of Day 12 of Wimbledon - also known as men’s semi-finals day.

The last men’s semi-final standing takes place today, with a spot in the final against Nick Kyrgios up for grabs following the withdrawal of Rafael Nadal due to injury.

Britain’s Cameron Norrie takes on the “hardest task in tennis” as he meets the defending champion Novak Djokovic in his first grand slam semi-final.

Norrie is just the fourth British man in the open era to reach the semi-finals at Wimbledon - following in the footsteps of Roger Taylor, Tim Henman and Andy Murray - but is faced with ending Djokovic’s 26-match win streak at SW19.

And in the final awaits Kyrgios, who is through to his first grand slam final after Nadal was forced to pull out of the second semi-final as a result of an abdominal tear.