An empathetic Novak Djokovic shares Nick Kyrgios' pain with his own struggles with injury as the two friends are set to enjoy a hitting session on Wednesday.
Djokovic opened his 2024 Wimbledon account with a comfortable straight-sets victory over Czech qualifier Vit Kopriva. A few weeks ago, his participation at the tournament was doubtful after he tore the medial meniscus in his right knee while playing at Roland Garros.
Although his recovery after undergoing surgery within such a short period of time and playing at Wimbledon is a minor miracle in itself, Djokovic understands that injuries are all part and parcel of the sport.
The Serb has played at the top tier of men's tennis for close to two decades and explained during his on-court interview after his first-round win that he's "fortunate" he avoided major injuries akin to what some of his peers, like Kyrgios, have endured in the last one and a half years.
While speaking of his comeback, Djokovic singled out the Australian star, who is currently working as a commentator for the BBC's coverage of this year's Wimbledon.
"I’ve been fortunate comparing myself to other 37-year-olds. I had injuries like anybody else but they come and go. It’s part of what you do. You just have to accept it and embrace it. I think Nick Kyrgios is in the commentary box."
"He’s been struggling a lot with injuries. Talking about major injuries he’s had a few. I’ve been very fortunate to not be away from tennis for long. As an athlete I empathize with Nick and anyone who’s struggling. You almost feel helpless at times that something isn’t allowing you to come back to what you love most and you’re unable to do your profession for years."
Djokovic is having a day off on Wednesday, and Kyrgios confirmed on his X account (formerly Twitter) that he would be hitting with the former World No. 1 at All England Club and admitted that he "feels like a little kid" ahead of his comeback, potentially on the hard courts of North America.
"Hitting with Novak tomorrow on his day off. I feel like a little kid again…. Feeling excited. Long way back from this surgery!"