‘Tough’ Novak Djokovic breaks silence after struggling but not quitting mid-match at Paris Masters despite health issues

Novak Djokovic revealed that it was either quit or win for him at the Paris Masters.

Novak Djokovic seeking medical assist(Image via Daily Express)

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic opened up about the health issues he faced during his successful campaign at the Paris Masters. The Serb struggled with a stomach virus for the duration of the Masters event.

This prevented him from playing at his best level. However, despite these issues, he managed to win the tournament, which serves to be his 40th ATP Masters title.

Novak Djokovic had admitted to struggling with a virus during the early days of the Paris Masters. He claimed that he spent more time in the toilet than on the court for a few days. His issues started with his match against Tallon Griekspoor, where he won the match in three sets, after dropping the first set.

However, his health only seemed to be giving him more trouble as he saw a few close matches with Holger Rune and Andrey Rublev. His final match against Grigor Dimitrov saw him requesting a bathroom break and a medical assist.

The Serb broke the silence regarding the consequences of his illness in a press conference after the Masters. He said:

I couldn't eat much in the last few days, I only ate once a day and only liquid, because everything came out immediately.

He also revealed that he had bouts of headache and dizziness. However, he was clear that he would not let the illness dictate the outcome of his game.

But for a professional athlete, when you're on the court, it's very clear: you either let those circumstances and those feelings overwhelm you and you manage accordingly, or you control them. There is no in-between, Djokovic further added

While it is true that the 24-time Grand Slam champion was really struggling during his week at Bercy, this did not stop him from winning a record-extending seventh title at the Paris Masters.

He had a really tough time during the matches playing against the Paris crowd and injuries. Nevertheless, he ultimately won the title, proving he is still one of the best players on the tour.

Novak Djokovic admits to having had to harness every bit of energy at the Paris Masters

The World No.1 player was seen struggling with a stomach bug during his week at Bercy. However, he did eventually win the title, despite having had to visit the bathroom frequently, mid-match. However, he claims that it was mainly the adrenaline surge that helped him move forward in the tournament.

"Either you forfeit, you avoid the match, or you draw on all your energy, the adrenaline, the energy of the public, everything else, to take control, " he said.

He admitted that he wanted to harness every bit of energy he had left in him just to get through the game.

"I tried to find the extra energy in all of this," he said.

Nole’s ruthless determination helped him win the 97th title of his career. He currently is the player with the third most career titles behind Jimmy Connors with 109 titles and Roger Federer with 103 titles. However, considering the current form he is in, it is only a matter of time before he rewrites these records.