Novak Djokovic Withdraws From 2024 French Open

Novak Djokovic has been forced to retire from his 2024 French Open quarterfinal against Casper Ruud owing to a right knee injury acquired during his fourth-round triumph on Monday. The move terminates his title defense and means he will lose his No. 1 position.

Djokovic received an MRI scan and more medical testing on his knee on Tuesday. Roland Garros stated that he had a “torn medial meniscus” in his right knee.

Djokovic revealed Monday that he was injured in the second set of his final five-set victory over Francisco Cerundolo. He hoped to compete in his quarterfinal on Wednesday.

In a statement, Djokovic stated that he played with his heart and gave his all on Monday before being hurt.

“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,” he stated.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion revealed he suffered some stiffness in his right knee before the competition but had no more problems until his massive fourth-round encounter Monday. His third-round match ended at 3:07 a.m. on Sunday, and he stated the late start “didn’t help the sleeping, biorhythm, and recovery.”

After winning the first set against Cerundolo, Djokovic stated that a misstep in the third game of the second set “affected the knee.” He requested a medical timeout and received more physiotherapy throughout the match.

Djokovic was noticeably irritated with the slick surface on Court Philippe-Chatrier and requested that it be washed more regularly. The request was, however, denied.

“When I started feeling pain, I requested physiotherapy and a medical timeout and attempted to manage it. “It definitely disrupted my play,” Djokovic remarked on Monday evening. “I didn’t want to stay in the rally for more than two sets and a half. Every time he made a sudden drop shot or changed directions, I didn’t feel safe sprinting.

“To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I should continue with what was going on. I received the meds, and once the third set was complete, I requested additional medications, which I received.

“That was the maximum dose that kicked in, as I learned from the doctor after 30 to 45 minutes, which was right around the conclusion of the fourth when things began to improve for me. I started to feel less restricted in my movements.”

Djokovic rallied to win the match after falling behind two sets to one and behind a break in the fourth, but he was concerned about the long-term harm he had done to his knee.

Djokovic, 37, now sets his sights on Wimbledon, which begins on July 1. Then there are the Olympic Games, which begin July 27. With Djokovic’s withdrawal, Ruud has secured his place in the semifinals.

He’ll face the winner of Alexander Zverev and Alex de Minaur’s Wednesday quarterfinal.

Novak Djokovic: ESPN Image

Novak Djokovic is one of the greatest tennis players ever

Novak Djokovic has ruled the tennis world for more than a decade. Djokovic has won multiple Grand Slam titles, including several at Wimbledon, the Australian Open, the French Open, and the United States Open.

He is renowned for his exceptional physical fitness and mental fortitude. Djokovic’s return game is among the finest, and his flexibility enables him to reach shots that other players cannot. He frequently turns defense into offense, which frustrates opponents.

Djokovic has a distinctive approach that is difficult to counter. Off the court, he is interested in charity work and runs a foundation to support poor youngsters. His career has been defined by a heated rivalry with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, resulting in some of the most famous tennis matches in history.

Despite injuries and failures, Djokovic continues to set records and demonstrate why he is a force in the sport. His legacy is already assured, yet he hasn’t finished. Each match he plays serves as a reminder to fans and pundits alike of his ability and dedication.

Source: ESPN