Wimbledon 2023: Mats Wilander warns fast start for Sinner won't stop Djokovic finding 'lockdown mode'

Mats Wilander expects Jannik Sinner to make another fast start against Novak Djokovic in their Wimbledon semi-final, but warned that having a two-set advantage will not be enough. Sinner went two sets to love up against the 23-time Grand Slam winner in their 2022 quarter-final meeting at the All England club, but Djokovic stormed back to win in five and ultimately seal his seventh SW19 title.

Ad The Italian says he’s become a better player in the year since that epic contest, but Eurosport expert Wilander is concerned that Sinner – or anyone else for that matter – might not have what it takes to edge Djokovic over five sets. WimbledonWimbledon 2023: Day 12 Order of Play and schedule – When is Sinner v Djokovic?14 HOURS AGO “[Sinner] has a good chance play a really close match, to get ahead again like he was last year,” Wilander said ahead of the clash.

“It would surprise me if he didn’t get a good start because Novak has come out a little bit slow in some of the matches, maybe because of his age, maybe because of the tough schedule and that he played a few late matches. “It’s just that in the long run, trying to win the match at the end, where you get a little bit tight and you don’t hit the ball as hard, as clean, and you’re not as clear in your mind.

“That’s when Novak suddenly shows up and goes into that lockdown mode and doesn’t miss at all. “It’s not enough to have two sets to love against Novak.

You have to play tennis in stressful situations when the ball keeps coming back and you have nerves on edge, because you’re about to get to a Wimbledon final, and I’m not sure that male player exists.” Djokovic, seeded second at Wimbledon this year, is by far the most decorated player in the draw. He is a record 23-time