DJOK 'N' ROLL!

Fed backs Serb star to take crown and equal his record

- NEIL MCLEMAN

ROGER FEDERER says Novak Djokovic is the "big, big favourite" to equal his male record of eight singles titles at Wimbledon this year.

The Serbian superstar completed his 30th consecutive win here by beating Aussie Jordan Thompson 6-3 7-6 7-5 last night as he continued his pursuit of more history. Djokovic overtook Rafa Nadal to set a male record of 23 Grand Slam titles with victory at the French Open last month.

And now Federer (inset, right), whose Wimbledon career was celebrated on Centre Court on Tuesday, said he expects the world No.2 to claim another title here next Sunday. "He's the big, big favourite," said 20-time Grand Slam winner Federer. "Honestly, it's great for him. I had my moments. For me, having won my eighth or my fifth in a row or whatever it may be, that was my moment. So if somebody equals that or passes that, this is their thing, their moment."