Top seven players with most semi-final appearances at Wimbledon

Novak Djokovic holds the record for most semi-final appearances at Wimbledon.

The toughest challenge at any tennis major event is taking the final step to glory. However, many have admitted that there is no worse feeling than not being able to fight for the title, after having performed so well all tournament.

The semi-finals are certainly more difficult than the finals, as every player dreams of reaching the final of a Grand Slam event, but these dreams may remain unfulfilled. Tournaments such as Wimbledon require players to control their bodies, as diving and drop shots are key to being successful.

The two players who have made the highest semi-final appearances are the best grass players the sport has ever seen, and hence it comes as no surprise to see them in the top two. Here we take a look at the seven players who have finished in the final four more often than anyone else.

Seven players with most semi-final appearances at Wimbledon:

Rafael Nadal – 8

Rafael Nadal has reached the Wimbledon semi-finals eight times, a testament to his adaptability on grass despite being renowned as the “King of Clay.” Nadal’s Wimbledon heroics include two memorable titles, in 2008 and 2010. His 2008 final against Roger Federer is often hailed as one of the greatest matches in tennis history, with Nadal prevailing in a five-set thriller.

Also Read: Wimbledon: Full list of title winners

John McEnroe – 8

John McEnroe made eight Wimbledon semi-finals, too, during his illustrious career. Known for his artistry at the net and fiery temperament, the American captured three Wimbledon titles (1981, 1983, 1984). His 1980 final against Björn Borg, where he won the legendary 18-16 tiebreak, remains iconic.

McEnroe often clashed with Borg and Jimmy Connors in the semis, producing some of the most dramatic matches of the era.

Pete Sampras – 8

Pete Sampras, one of the greatest grass-court players, reached the Wimbledon semi-finals eight times, winning seven titles (1993–1995, 1997–2000). Sampras dominated the 1990s with his powerful serve and clinical volleys.

His memorable semi-final battles often came against Goran Ivanišević and Tim Henman. Sampras’s 2000 semi-final against Vladimir Voltchkov was his last before clinching his final Wimbledon crown.

Boris Becker – 9

Boris Becker burst onto the scene as a 17-year-old in 1985, becoming the youngest male Wimbledon champion ever. He reached nine semi-finals, claiming three titles (1985, 1986, 1989). Becker’s diving volleys and fearless play electrified crowds.

His epic semi-final clashes with Stefan Edberg, Ivan Lendl, and Andre Agassi are part of Wimbledon folklore. Becker’s rivalry with Edberg, in particular, produced three consecutive finals from 1988 to 1990, with their semi-final encounters just as compelling.

Also Read: Top five all-time best men’s singles Wimbledon finals

Jimmy Connors – 11

The relentless Jimmy Connors appeared in 11 Wimbledon semi-finals, a record of consistency. He managed to triumph only twice in 1974 and 1982.

The American often faced Björn Borg and John McEnroe in the semis, with their matches characterized by intensity and drama. His 1982 semi-final victory over McEnroe paved the way for his second and final Wimbledon crown.

Roger Federer – 13

Roger Federer reached the Wimbledon semi-finals 13 times and holds the record for most titles at the championship (2003–2007, 2009, 2012, 2017). The Swiss maestro’s elegant game, precise serve, and effortless movement made him the ultimate grass-court player.

His legendary semi-final battles include encounters with Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. The 2019 semi-final win over Nadal was particularly memorable, though he ended up losing to the Serbian in a classic five-setter final.

Novak Djokovic 🤝 Breaking Records@DjokerNole #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/hR4qQCphGp

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) July 9, 2025

Novak Djokovic -14

Novak Djokovic tops the list with 14 Wimbledon semi-final appearances, underlining his remarkable consistency and resilience.

Djokovic has won seven titles (2011, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022) and is known for his incredible defensive skills and mental toughness. He is the only player to have beaten Federer multiple times at SW19, and has a stellar record at the Championship, making six straight final appearances.

The 2018 semi-final against Nadal, which lasted over five hours, stands out as one of the greatest matches ever played at Wimbledon. In 2025, he beat Flavio Cobolli to book his 14th semi-final berth against Jannik Sinner, breaking yet another record previously held by Federer.

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