As every human being, Novak Djokovic is aging too and injuries are playing more significant role every year in his career.
Currently, the experienced Serb is on a quest to win his 23rd Grand Slam title at the 2023 Roland Garros and become the first-ever player on the ATP Tour to do so, and also level fellow WTA colleague Serena Williams.
So far, his quest is going really well as he managed to beat all of his first three opponents in straight sets, but it wasn't without some concerns. During his third-round match against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Djokovic asked for a medical time out, during which he was even booed by the crowd.
For his fans, seeing the 36-year-old Serb being treated was really concerning and it wasn't a bit surprising that Djokovic was asked about the issue during the post-match press conference, but he didn't really want to talk about his issues.
"Look, we don't have much time to start to name the many injuries I have, and the list is quite long. So, I mean, you know, I don't want to sit here and talk about these things that are not preventing me from playing. I still kept on playing."
Djokovic shared his reality, offering a candid glimpse into the often unspoken physical challenges athletes face as they age. His remarks are a powerful reminder that even world-class athletes must adapt to the changing landscapes of their bodies.
While he assured fans that these issues weren't preventing him from playing, he candidly admitted that he sometimes requires assistance from his physio during matches or takes medication. His comments underline the harsh reality that professional athletes are not invincible and are, indeed, subject to physical strains and the relentless passage of time.
"These are the circumstances that you, as a professional athlete, have to deal with. Accept it. Sometimes you need help from physio during the match. Sometimes you need pills. Sometimes you need help from the god or angels, or whoever. Sometimes you just have to deal with the reality."
From now on, Djokovic has to adjust to what he called a 'new reality', as he'll probably never be 100% fit again, with small injuries or different smaller issues may become inevitable as he approaches his forties.
"Reality for me nowadays is that, yeah, my body is responding differently than it did few years ago. You know, I have to adjust to this new reality, so to say. But at the end of the day, I managed to finish the match, as I said. And, you know, on the court you try to do your best, everything possible, so you can finish the match and win. That's what happened in the end."
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