Novak Djokovic called it one of the most thrilling matches of his career.
Juan Martin del Potro felt he played better than when he won the 2009 US Open.
Everyone who witnessed it agreed they had seen a Wimbledon classic.
World No.1 Djokovic’s 7-5 4-6 7-6 (7-2) 6-7 (6-8) 6-3 triumph over Del Potro on Friday, the longest Wimbledon semi-final in history, will live long in the memory for many reasons.
“I think this match is going to be remembered for a few years,” Del Potro said.
“We play for four hours and a half on a very high level.
“I don’t know if the rest of the players can play like us today.”
With the crowd firmly in his corner, the Argentine eighth seed played out of his skin in falling just short of his first Wimbledon final appearance.
Unleashing a string of jaw-dropping forehands, he brought out the best in Djokovic, who hit a staggering 80 winners.
“I know that I have been pushed to the limit today, as my opponent was also,” said Djokovic, no stranger to epic grand slam encounters.
“It was one of the most thrilling matches that I have ever played, especially here in Wimbledon.”
There were plenty of big moments, none more thrilling than when Del Potro saved two match points in a tie-breaker before sending the game into a deciding fifth set.
And the high quality of play was matched in sportsmanship and spirit.
If the 15,000-strong Centre Court crowd hadn’t already picked a side, Del Potro quickly won them over by wearing his heart on his sleeve.
His reactions were animated and his antics playful, even in tense situations.
At one point he hi-fived a supporter in the front row. At another he took a seat in front of the scoreboard to ponder a poor shot.
The big Argentine even ventured on to good friend Djokovic’s side of the net at one point to discuss whether he should challenge a call.
“We tend to have these kind of interactions,” Djokovic said.
“I have lots of respect for him. He’s a very nice guy off the court also.”
Del Potro unashamedly fed off the crowd: “It was amazing. When I was down in moments on the match, I saw the crowd.
“They were clapping to me and that helped me a lot for sure.”
In the end, Del Potro graciously admitted his best was still not good enough against an “incredible” opponent.
“But if I still going in this way playing against Novak, Rafa, the other guys, it’s going to be very interesting for me,” said Del Potro, who at 24 has battled more than his fair share of injury concerns.
“Good fight, good battles coming. I will be ready for that.
“Of course I’m sad now but in couple of days I will see how big was this match.”