Novak Djokovic has equalled Roger Federer as the player with the most men's singles wins at Wimbledon in the Open Era after battling past Arthur Rinderknech in four sets.

Djokovic was given a scare, but got over the line for his 105th win at All England Club as he triumphed 7-5 6-4 1-6 7-6 (7-4) in over three hours to reach the fourth round.

The pair traded breaks in a tight start to the match, with neither player giving too many openings, but Djokovic, who had produced a statement victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday, found his edge at the right time.

He got another vital break in the 11th game and held his serve to take the first set.

The Serb went on another three-game winning streak early in the second, but he was made to work hard, with Rinderknech fending off two set points on his serve before Djokovic made his third count.

But the Frenchman's fierce approach paid off in the third set; having hit 35 winners across the opening two sets, he reeled off the first five games before getting on the board with a love-hold.

Neither player could force a break point in the fourth set, with Rinderknech in particular looking strong on serve, dropping only four points.

But Djokovic once again showed his skill in the tie-break. He reeled off the final four points with both players finishing the match on the floor; Rinderknech launched himself towards a drop shot, but Djokovic's dive to meet the reply ultimately won it.

Djokovic closes in on a new record

Djokovic has claimed a 105th career men's singles match win at Wimbledon, equalling Federer for the most of any player in the Open Era.

"Obviously, to be able to make history on this court is a huge honour and privilege," Djokovic said of equalling Federer's record. 

"This was always a dream childhood tournament of mine. I'm not really thinking about how many more I can get; I'm just really trying to win the match on a given day.

"I propose a match between me and Roger for 106! Whoever wins it gets it. Let's just stop this here and let's call him down."

He now has the opportunity to overtake his old foe and take the record outright, with qualifier Roman Safiullin next up for him in the round of 16.

Djokovic remains some distance behind the all-time record at SW19, though, with former WTA number one Martina Navratilova boasting 120 wins.