Novak Djokovic has been given a bleak injury update by his surgeon ahead of Wimbledon. The 37-year-old went under the knife last week after sustaining a tear in the medial meniscus in his right knee during a gruelling fourth-round win over Francisco Cerundolo at the French Open.
Djokovic withdrew from the tournament following a scan, handing Jannik Sinner the world number one ranking. Any slight hopes he had of playing at Wimbledon, which begins on July 1, have been tempered by the surgeon who operated on the joint, Antoana Geromete, who has given a detailed assessment of the injury and recovery process.
He told L’Equipe: “In the 45 minutes that we spent with Novak, his team and Vincent Guiard, the doctor of the French Tennis Federation, I was very open that everything will depend on the reaction of his knee. By gradually increasing the load, we will see if it remains ‘dry’ and without swelling or pain.
“It will be progress from day to day, but it is impossible to predict the state in which it will be in a week, two and so on. But to be at 100% in three weeks, it really seems difficult to achieve.”
While being fit for the Paris Olympics is a more realistic target, Geromete highlighted the seven-time Wimbledon champion’s drive and determination, suggesting nothing can be ruled out. He added: “He’s a real force of nature because given the nature of the injury, what he’s done is extraordinary.
“As many as 99% of people would probably end up immediately in the emergency centre with a ‘locked’ knee. It is a mechanical blockage, and the reality is that only surgery can fix it. It calls into question the unfair criticism of him and the interpretations of those who say it’s not a real injury.”
Following his operation, Djokovic gave a positive update on social media. Accompanied by a picture of the Serbian on crutches and surrounded by his team, Djokovic wrote: “In the past day, I had to make some tough decisions after sustaining a meniscus tear during my last match.
“I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well. 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. My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going.”
