Novak Djokovic said he was surprised by what Queen Camilla asked him before his Wimbledon quarter-final, but refused to divulge their conversation. Djokovic met Camilla before facing Flavio Cobolli on Centre Court on Wednesday afternoon and relished the opportunity.

The seven-time Wimbledon champion defeated Cobolli 6-7, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 to book a semi-final against world No.1 Jannik Sinner. The 38-year-old will compete in his 14th semi-final at the All England Club on Thursday and his 52nd in Grand Slams altogether – both of which are records.

He came from a set down to defeat Italy’s Cobolli, the 22nd seed, despite suffering a nasty fall in the final game while serving for the match. Djokovic put on a show on Centre Court and enjoyed performing in front of Camilla following a ceremony before the match.

The Serbian star was introduced to Camilla, who also met with key staff members, including lead groundsperson Will Brierley, lead gardener Robin Murphy and collections manager Malin Lundin. The two shared a brief chat, but while he was delighted to meet Camilla, Djokovic chose to keep what was said between them.

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“I prefer not sharing that. It's private,” Djokovic said when asked about the encounter. “We had a nice exchange. I was actually surprised with her comment and a question that she asked. It was non-tennis related. She was very pleasant. Very, very pleasant.

“Of course, it's a great honour and privilege for me to be able to shake hands with the Queen of England. I've had that honor, as well, 2010 with the late Queen Elizabeth.

“It's obviously a phenomenal occasion for Wimbledon to host the Royal Family. Wimbledon has traditionally attracted the Royal Family. It's beautiful to see there's still an interest for our sport. Of course, it's important for all of us.”

As Camilla shook Djokovic's hand she was heard saying: “Oh what a treat, how nice to see you. It’s lovely to see you". She added that she had her "fingers crossed" for him, to which he responded: “It will be my great honour. I appreciate it.”

Camilla came to Wimbledon after bidding farewell to French president Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte as they made their way from Windsor to London to continue their three-day state visit. In a busy day, she then went to Buckingham Palace to attend a reception to celebrate 40 years of artists accompanying official overseas visits.

After the ceremony on Centre Court, Camilla watched the action with her sister Annabel Elliot in the Royal Box. She was able to watch Djokovic continue his remarkable level, despite being much older than his rivals.

He is chasing an out-right record 25th Grand Slam title and is determined to keep going. “Of course, it is motivation,” he said. “It's a given. In a sense, for me to feel the significance of the moment, we don't even need to talk about it. Of course, I am aware of getting myself in a position to play semis against the best player in the world.”