Tennis - Djokovic on knee-op after Wimbledon final: 'surreal'
The Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic described his entry into the Wimbledon final as "surreal." Five weeks ago, the 37-year-old underwent a knee surgery. "I don't want to prove that people are wrong," Djokovic replied when asked about it: "I have really focused on making Wimbledon possible for me this year."
He was not reckless and did not act against doctors' advice. "I didn't force anything," said the seven-time Wimbledon champion, "but I followed every recommended step in rehab: 'I even did more than that.' "
Knee surgery in early June
In the quarterfinals of the French Open, Djokovic sustained a meniscus tear and withdrew from the tournament. He underwent knee surgery in early June. Now, the 24-time Grand Slam champion advanced to his tenth Wimbledon final with a three-set win against Italian Lorenzo Musetti in the semifinals.
On Sunday, the former world number one faces a rematch of last year's final against Spanish title defender Carlos Alcaraz for the title at the most important grass tournament in the world.
Just a few days before the tournament start, Djokovic had left his participation in London open. In the early rounds, he didn't think about the title, Djokovic explained.
"I only thought about moving well, not getting injured, being honest, and feeling free in my movements," the record Grand Slam tournament winner declared. From the third round on, especially the fourth round, I realized that I was close to my top form and had a chance for the title.
Despite his recent knee surgery in early June, following a meniscus tear at the French Open, Novak Djokovic has defied expectations, reaching the Finale at Roland Garros and eventually the final of Wimbledon. His dedication to rehabilitation, including doing more than recommended, has been instrumental in his recovery. Despite initial uncertainty about participating in London's tournament, Djokovic's focus on recovery led him to find his top form, setting him up for a potential title win at the prestigious grass court championship in the United Kingdom.
His upcoming opponent in the Wimbledon final is none other than last year's champion, Carlos Alcaraz of Spain, making it a rematch of last year's final. Djokovic's knee injury, however, has not deterred him from his love for the sport, as he eagerly prepares for this International tennis finale, determined to continue his impressive record of Grand Slam championships.
