Following a knee injury, Novak Djokovic expressed his determination to return to the court swiftly after undergoing surgery. The 24-time Grand Slam champion pulled out of the French Open quarter-final against Casper Ruud due to a torn medial meniscus in his right knee sustained during a fourth-round victory over Francisco Cerundolo.
The recovery period is estimated to be at least three weeks, raising concerns about Djokovic’s potential absence from Wimbledon, commencing on July 1st. Additionally, his preparation for the Olympic Games, starting on July 27th in Paris, is likely to be affected.
In a statement, Djokovic conveyed, “I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well. My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going.”
A seven-time Wimbledon champion, Djokovic lost in a gripping five-set final against Carlos Alcaraz last year. His aspiration to clinch Olympic gold remains unfulfilled, identifying it as a priority for this year.
Expressing gratitude to his medical team and fans, Djokovic remarked, “I am so appreciative of the team of doctors who have been by my side as well as the overwhelming support I have received from my fans. I’m going to do my best to be healthy and fit to return to the court as soon as possible.”
With Djokovic sidelined, Italy’s Jannik Sinner is poised to ascend to the world number one ranking. Sinner, the Australian Open champion, is set to face Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open semi-finals on Friday.
