Novak Djokovic has expressed that he ranks his recovery from meniscus tear to compete at SW19 right at the top of unparalleled career achievements.
The 37-year-old tore the medial meniscus in his right knee in 5-set win versus Francisco Cerundolo at the Roland Garros last month. Following the scans that confirmed the injury, Djokovic pulled out of his quarterfinal clash and underwent surgery on his knee a fort-knight before Wimbledon.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has rolled on grass apparently without any rust and has cracked into the semis for the 13th time in his illustrious career. Djokovic got better of Dane Holger Rune in R16 and was due to face in-form Aussie Alex de Minaur in the final 8 but the World #9 withdraw from tournament because of a hip injury. The 7-time Wimbledon Champion will now take on ATP #5 Italian Lorenzo Musetti in the semis played on Friday.
Appearing on Tennis Channel, ahead of his semifinal clash, Djokovic was asked where he would place his recent physical rebound compared to other lengthy list of accomplishments in his stellar career.
“Well, right at the top. Maybe two or three in terms of the time required for me to come back to the desired level,” he said.
“I mean, it was the first time I had faced this kind of particular knee injury. Never had any major knee injury. I tore my meniscus, and a part of it had to be taken out as it’s not where it’s supposed to be.
“Because I was actually advising myself with all the orthopedic doctors around the world that I know. They all said the same thing, for once unanimous in their opinion, that it has to be operated, and that the recovery time will be much quicker.”
Djokovic also thanked American World #12 Taylor Fritz for helping him by sharing his experience with the same setback.
“I actually spoke to Taylor Fritz already,” the tennis great explained. “Told the story, but he was very kind to share his experience, his journey. Because he had pretty much exactly the same situation.
“Three years ago, he injured himself in Roland Garros, he had the same arthroscopic surgery. 21 days later, he was playing in the Wimbledon first round.
“When I heard him [saying] there’s a really good chance if everything goes well, the swelling is down and rehab process is respected, there’s a very good chance I will make it to Wimbledon. And so I think that gave me a lot of confidence to go for it.”