Record-equalling Novak Djokovic survives Arthur Rinderknech scare to book fourth round spot

The seven-time champion was pushed to the limit by the French 25th seed before emerging with a 7-5 6-4 1-6 7-6(4) victory in a three-hour, one-minute battle on Centre Court.

The win was Djokovic's 105th singles triumph at the All England Club, drawing him level with Federer and leaving only Martina Navratilova, with 120 victories, ahead of him on the all-time list.

"To be able to make history in this sport is a huge honour and a huge privilege," Djokovic said.

"I propose a match-up between me and Roger for 106!"

Djokovic had looked set for another comfortable afternoon after easing past Stefanos Tsitsipas in the previous round. He edged a tight opening set with a late break before taking control of the second to move within one set of the last 16.

But Rinderknech, who knocked out Alexander Zverev at Wimbledon last year, refused to fade away. The Frenchman began swinging freely, breaking early in the third set and storming through it in just 18 minutes, coming within two points of handing Djokovic only the 13th 6-0 set of his career.

The momentum remained with Rinderknech in the fourth as he continued to trouble Djokovic with his powerful serve and attacking play, forcing a tie-break in front of an increasingly animated Centre Court crowd.

However, the 24-time Grand Slam champion rediscovered his best tennis when it mattered most, producing a near-flawless tie-break to finally end the Frenchman's resistance.

"Sometimes you just have to find a way to win, and I'm happy I did that today," Djokovic said.

The match ended in dramatic fashion, with both players sprawled on the grass after a frantic exchange at the net before Djokovic secured victory and a standing ovation from the crowd.

Djokovic will next face Russian qualifier Roman Safiullin, who stunned Joao Fonseca in straight sets earlier on Friday. The Serbian has won all three of their previous meetings without dropping a set.

READ MORE: Naomi Osaka reaches Wimbledon fourth round for first time with Daria Kasatkina win