Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic pays tribute to Roger Federer

Novak Djokovic has paid tribute to Roger Federer after beating him to the Wimbledon title.

The pair fought it out in a nail biting five set battle with Djokovic prevailing 6-7 (7/9) 6-4 7-6 (7/4) 5-7 6-4.

Admitting that for a moment he feared the match might slip away from him after failing to convert a match point in the
fourth set, Djokovic paid tribute to his competitor.

“Congratulations to Roger, he proved what a great champion he is once again here this year,” he said.

“I respect your career and everything you’ve done Roger – thank you for letting me win today!

“After dropping a fourth set it wasn’t easy to regroup. I tried to compose myself and find the necessary energy to win the fifth. I don’t know how I managed to do it.

“This is the tournament I always dreamed of winning. This is the best tournament in the world, the most valuable one.”

After thanking his family and his camp, Djokovic added: “Last but not least, I would like to dedicate this title to my first coach who taught me all the basics of tennis shots and behaviour and everything I know about tennis – Jelena Gencic – and she passed away last year, and this is for her.”

Djokovic knelt to the turf to eat some of the famous All England Club grass to greet his victory – just as in 2011.

The Belgrade native lost out in last summer’s final to Andy Murray, and admitted it was a thrill to win again.

“The last time I won here was part of a fantastic year, and it’s just amazing for it to happen again,” he said.

A clearly-deflated Federer remained as gracious as ever in defeat despite failing to claim his 18th grand slam title.

The 32-year-old did however concede he was pleased with his run to the final, especially after his wretched 2013 that was dogged by back injuries.

“He’s a great opponent and I would just like to congratulate Novak on his title,” said Federer.

“You know going into a match against Novak it’s going to be tough, I can only say congratulations.

“I’m certainly delighted to have been able to be back here again in this final.”