Novak Djokovic underwent knee surgery following his withdrawal from Roland Garros this week, and close sources to the outgoing World No.1 have shared the expected length of his layoff.
Djokovic came into this year's French Open carrying a knee injury but kept the information private. It was only after the condition became significantly worse that he chose to share it.
The Serbian star exacerbated the pain during his thrilling five-set win over Francisco Cerundolo in the fourth round. Djokovic suffered a terrible slip during the match and requested a medical timeout, during which a trainer tended to him.
He was given painkillers to help alleviate the pain, and he steadied himself and completed the match, which lasted four hours and 40 minutes. He won after storming back from two sets to one down.
But it came at a personal cost, as Djokovic worsened the knee injury. An MRI scan on Tuesday revealed that he suffered from a torn meniscus in his right knee and would require arthroscopic surgery.
Because he desired to return to the court as soon as possible. So, Djokovic did not delay the procedure, which was reportedly done in Paris. He chose to withdraw willingly ahead of his quarterfinal match against Casper Ruud.
According to Serbian journalist Sasa Ozmo, Djokovic's recovery period will likely last three weeks. Barring a miracle, he is expected to miss Wimbledon, which begins on July 1st, but there is an optimistic feeling that he will return in time for the Paris Olympics.
The Olympic tennis tournament will begin on July 27th, which would give Djokovic sufficient rehab and recuperation time from the injury. And because it will be held at Stade Roland Garros, the 24-time Grand Slam champion doesn't have to switch surfaces.
He will also have a few weeks of practice under his belt, as Olympics gold remains Djokovic's most sought-after prize for the 2024 season. At 37, this represents his last realistic shot at winning it.
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