By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Friday, June 14, 2024
Photo credit: Rob Newell/CameraSport
Novak Djokovic's Wimbledon participation is unlikely, but not impossible says the doctor who performed arthroscopic surgery on the Serbian superstar's right knee.
Dr. Antoine Gerometta told French publication L'Equipe the Grand Slam king likely won't be 100 percent in time for Wimbledon, which starts July 1st.
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"We can dream and say that everything will go very fast," Dr. Gerometta told L'Equipe. "But during the 45 minutes we were with Novak, his team and Vincent Guillard, doctor of the French Tennis Federation, I was very clear in saying that everything depended on the reaction of his knee.
"By gradually increasing the load, we will see if it stays without inflammation or pain. We will have to see how it evolves day by day, but it is impossible to predict what the state will be in a week or fifteen days. That it will be 100% in three weeks' time seems unlikely."
In an Instagram post, Djokovic last week said surgery went well and he's focusing on recovery.
"In the past day, I had to make some tough decisions after sustaining a meniscus tear during my last match," Djokovic posted on social media. "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."
Serbian media reports Djokovic is aiming to try to return in time to play next month's Paris Olympic Games at Roland Garros. However that could be an ambitious goal given his knee injury and recovery time.
The Paris Olympic Games are set for July 27-August 4th.
Djokovic, who was displaced as world No. 1 by Jannik Sinner, said his ambition remain high.
"I’m going to do my best to be healthy and fit to return to the court as soon as possible," Djokovic said. "My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going."
Photo credit: Rob Newell/CameraSport