Injured Novak Djokovic pulls the trigger on Dimitrov to enter Round 4 of the Australian Open
Novak Djokovic makes it past the first week at the 2023 Australian Open as he defeats Grigor Dimitrov to move closer to his tenth title in Melbourne Park.
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Novak Djokovic - IMAGO / Schreyer
Nothing can stop Novak Djokovic. Cliche? No. Reality, yes. On Saturday, the Serbian continued with his mission — Grand Slam title 22 — as he outgunned friend off the court but foe on court Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets in three hours and six minutes. The win propelled the Serbian superstar into the fourth round at the 2023 Australian Open.
It looks so simple to read all this. Reality is vastly different, Novak has issues with his left hamstring, tight, which needs even tighter strapping. Still, from the taping stage in the medical room to stepping on the court and then running around, the leg does not feel the same. A hamstring issue is painful and restricts movement, front and back, and lateral movement.
When you keep bounding on the hard courts in Melbourne, there is shock, trauma, and pain. There is a phrase “grin and bear it.” Novak has defined it, though the grin is missing. He needs the trainer to come out and help him, in almost every match. All that is acceptable as Novak has chosen to go ahead, play, risk his leg and try and win his 22nd Major, which will bring him at par with injured soldier Rafael Nadal.
Sadly, what is irksome in Melbourne was the fans not supporting Novak. Strange, this, not cheering for a man who has won nine titles at the AO and is still favorite, despite the physical issues. If the crowd was getting under his skin in the earlier round and Novak complained to the chair umpire, Saturday was different. Obviously, Aussie fans get pissed drunk on lager and froth rubbish.
Injury getting only worse for Novak Djokovic
Maybe, they were obscured by lager or were consciously chanting the name of Roger Federer. That has been boorish (plus beer) behavior from the Melbourne fans, who are trying to do stupid things. It’s Ok in a Davis Cup tie to cheer for a nation or one player but at a Grand Slam to behave like jerks reflects bias and illiteracy reeks.
Novak did not mind it, his riposte was smash a winner, even if he was hearing the name of “Roger” from the stands. Melbourne mania used to be famous, but this time they seem to be behaving like cranks. Guess the heat and fluctuating weather has got them worked up. The Aussies are known to sledge, indulge in racial slurs, and needle opponents. They are the masters in sledding, which they used to do often in cricket.
To see fans at worst behavior, devoid of tennis etiquette is distressing. You got to show respect to the players, they contribute big time to the Aussie economy during this fortnight. Never mind, Novak will keep fighting, even if he is going to be on one limb. That’s his super spirit, able to deal with all the demons, literally. In fact, dealing with Dimitrov was not so hard, in his own words.
“Every point and game mattered,” said Djokovic. “The turning point for both players was right from the start. Making an early break was important. I didn’t know how I was going to feel physically. I was going up and down. Grigor is someone that I truly admire and respect. He is one of my best friends on Tour. We go back a long time. He is one of the most talented players you will see. He is such a great athlete,” said Novak later.
“I thought a double break in the third was going to be enough, but he was locked in. Up until the very last shot, I did not know if I was going to prevail,” Djokovic said. “It was an incredible battle. Three sets, over three hours. Let’s rest up and prepare for the next one,” added the Serb.
What spirit from Novak, showing respect to his opponent and wanting to be ready for the next round. Usually, a hamstring injury takes weeks to settle down. That is provided an athlete rests. Novak is not resting, though he is at peace with himself. These days, no tennis player is a 100 percent fit throughout the season.
There is a niggle or more than a niggle. The key, is pain management, which is done by doctors, physios, masseurs, and the entourage. In the end, the athlete has to show a will to fight. Novak deserves kudos for that, he will keep fighting till he pumps in the last bullet.
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S Kannan
(382 Articles Published)