Novak Djokovic made a forthright assessment of his movement as he battled past British wild card Jacob Fearnley to reach the third round of Wimbledon.
The seven-time champion lost his first set at this year's Championships to the inspired Fearnley, who certainly did not let the occasion get to him. The free-swinging 22-year-old played much better than his current ranking of No. 277 suggests.
Djokovic's labored performance ultimately proved sufficient to win the match, but the reserved Serb opened up about his struggles with movement during the match, which led him to go all in on some of his shots.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, the World No. 2 explained that his speed is not at its peak level mainly because of the knee injury he sustained at Roland Garros, which required surgery.
"I do feel that has an impact on my movement a little bit in terms of the speed. It’s not yet there where I want it to be. Kind of late on the balls that I’m normally not late on."
Djokovic will next face Alexei Popyin for a spot in the second week of the tournament. The Australian stretched him to four sets in their most recent match at this year's Australian Open.
The 37-year-old can expect another tough outing on Saturday, but he believes his dynamism and effortless movement will improve as long he remains in the Wimbledon draw.
"That’s the part which I guess comes with matches. So the longer I stay in the tournament, I think the better the chances that my movement will improve."
"The earlier rounds is where I’m still a little bit rusty on the movement, I think. That’s what I felt today, at least. But yeah, I don’t worry about reinjuring my knee. I don’t have time nor energy to think about it, nor do I think it’s worth it. I wouldn’t be here unless I think that – not just myself, but the whole team – that I’m ready to compete at this level."
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