Novak Djokovic, the defending champion of the French Open, has had to withdraw from the quarterfinals match against Casper Ruud due to a right knee injury. The injury, referred to as a “torn medial meniscus,” was sustained during his grueling fourth-round win over Francisco Cerundolo. Djokovic expressed his disappointment, as this decision means he will be relinquishing the No. 1 ranking.
Djokovic indicated that he started feeling discomfort in his knee even before the tournament began but managed to play through it until his intense match against Cerundolo. The Serbian player highlighted that the late finish of his third-round match affected his recovery and contributed to the injury he faced during the subsequent rounds. Despite the challenges, Djokovic pushed through the pain and managed to win the match, showcasing his resilience and determination.
During the match, Djokovic faced several difficulties, including a slip that further aggravated his knee, causing him to request medical treatment and a timeout. He also expressed frustration with the condition of Court Philippe-Chatrier, stating that the surface was too slippery, impacting his movement and comfort during the game. Djokovic’s perseverance and focus allowed him to continue playing, although he had concerns about the potential long-term impact on his knee.
Looking ahead, Djokovic now shifts his focus to Wimbledon, scheduled to begin on July 1, followed by the Olympic Games starting on July 27. The Serbian tennis star aims to recover from his injury and prepare for these upcoming tournaments, hoping to make a strong return to the court. Despite the setback at the French Open, Djokovic remains determined and optimistic about his future performances.
With Djokovic’s withdrawal, Casper Ruud advances to the semifinals, where he will face the winner of the quarterfinal match between Alexander Zverev and Alex de Minaur. Ruud’s path to the next round has been secured, and he now has the opportunity to showcase his skills against other top-ranked players in the tournament.
Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal from the French Open due to a knee injury has raised questions about his physical condition and ability to compete in future matches. While the decision was disappointing for Djokovic and his fans, it highlights the challenges that professional athletes face and the importance of prioritizing health and recovery. As Djokovic focuses on his rehabilitation and upcoming tournaments, tennis enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his return to the court and potential success in the future.