“I haven’t had any relapses,” Novak Djokovic assesses his physical condition ahead of Wimbledon
Novak Djokovic has been in a race against time ever since his knee injury at the 2024 French Open.
Novak Djokovic Wimbledon (via X)
Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has provided insight into his recovery from a meniscus tear. The Serbian sustained the injury during his Roland Garros campaign.
Djokovic has shown positive signs in practice sessions ahead of Wimbledon. He spoke at the pre-tournament press conference to update the tennis world on his condition.
Perhaps it is not ideal for doctors and specialists, who advise you to rest for 3 and 6 weeks, the more, the better not to risk it, but it is something individual. It's very subjective. Each one has a different response for recovery, rehabilitation, exercises… I haven't had any relapses. My intensity is very high now. The knee is fine, there has been no negative reaction.Novak Djokovic said in the Wimbledon pre-tournament press conference
?????? Novak Djokovic says he believes he can compete for the Wimbledon title, and hasn’t felt any knee pain since being back on the court:
— Olly ??? (@Olly_Tennis_) June 29, 2024
“It's a good question [why he will play Wimbledon], my wife also asked me.
I'm 37 years old, maybe someone would want to take less risk… pic.twitter.com/pDSKSXgQUp
Initially, Djokovic was projected not to play at Wimbledon. Many former tennis players, including Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, claimed that the Serbian could be out of action for five to six weeks after his Roland Garros injury. However, his recovery has been remarkable. He is scheduled to play his first round at SW19 against unseeded Czech Vit Kopriva on Monday.
Novak Djokovic trains with Jannik Sinner ahead of Wimbledon
Novak Djokovic practiced with Jannik Sinner on Centre Court this Thursday, indicating that his participation in the 2024 Wimbledon is looking promising. After his practice, the seven-time Wimbledon champion said that he is playing without pain again.
The 37-year-old had surgery on his right knee’s meniscus on June 5 after sustaining an injury during his match against Francisco Cerundolo at the French Open. Despite winning that intense five-set match, Djokovic withdrew from the tournament the next day and announced his need for surgery.
Just 22 days post-surgery, Djokovic returned to the court for a 40-minute practice session with Sinner. Although the Italian won the practice match, the Serbian appeared upbeat and showed no signs of pain or discomfort. Afterwards, he took photos with his team and the ground staff, showing a positive outlook.
As it stands, Djokovic seems likely to compete at Wimbledon. It will be fascinating to see his performance level, considering he is returning just a month after surgery. Earlier, the former World No.1 mentioned that he would only participate if he felt capable of contending for the title.
In case you missed it:
- “He is going to have a lot of confidence,” Laura Robson talks about Jannik Sinner’s Wimbledon chances by comparing his game to Iga Swiatek
- “That’s the greatness of him,” Tennis legend Mats Wilander admits surprise at Novak Djokovic’s recovery ahead of 2024 Wimbledon
Gerard Crispin
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