The president of Serbia’s Olympics Committee has surprisingly denied that Novak Djokovic underwent surgery on a knee injury. Wide-ranging reports have claimed that the tennis star went under the knife after withdrawing from the French Open this week.
Djokovic pulled out of Roland Garros ahead of his scheduled quarter-final against Casper Ruud, which was due to be played today (Wednesday). He made the decision to withdraw after feeling discomfort in his right knee during his victory over Francisco Cerundolo.
Wide-ranging reports suggest that the 37-year-old underwent surgery on the medial meniscus ligament (MML) tear. Serbian publication Sportklub, who frequently report on Djokovic’s career, even claim that the procedure went well and that a three-week recovery period is felt to be the best possible outcome.
However, Bozidar Maljkovic, the president of the Olympic Committee of Serbia, insists that the surgery did not happen at all. He claims to have spoken with Djokovic’s uncle.
“My son follows the French press every day. The French wrote in very serious media that Novak Djokovic had an operation,” he said. “We called [Djokovic’s] uncle, but we received information that he did not. I would not like to speculate.
“In any case, kudos to Novak. To play such a match in such a condition. We would all like him to be with us and lead the Olympic team.
“He is a wonderful man who makes other athletes better. He showed that in Tokyo.”
A three-week timetable for Djokovic’s recovery places him in doubt for this summer’s Wimbledon tournament. The Championships are scheduled to begin on July 1.
Djokovic also hopes to take part in the Olympics this summer. A gold medal is one of very few honours that have eluded the 24-time Grand Slam champion during a glittering tennis career. The Olympic tennis tournament, which is due to be hosted at Roland Garros, takes place from July 27 to August 4.
Meanwhile, the World No 1 posted an emotional message on Instagram after withdrawing from the French Open.
Djokovic wrote: “I played with my heart and gave my all in yesterday’s match and unfortunately, due to a medial meniscus tear in my right knee, my team and I had to make a tough decision after careful consideration and consultation.
“I wish the best of luck to the players competing this week and sincerely thank the incredible fans for all of the love and continued support. See you soon.”
