Novak Djokovic, esteemed as one of the most accomplished tennis players globally, is currently contemplating retirement following a severe injury that compelled him to withdraw from the French Open. The 37-year-old athlete was poised to compete against Casper Ruud in the quarter-finals but unfortunately was unable to do so due to a knee issue, which was further aggravated during a late-night match with Francisco Cerundolo, ultimately resulting in his exit from the tournament.
Djokovic, renowned for securing 24 men’s Grand Slam titles, would have been sanguine about his prospects at this year’s Roland Garros. However, he opted to undergo surgery to rectify a medial meniscus ligament tear instead of proceeding with the match against Ruud, thus raising concerns about the continuity of his illustrious career.
Readers of Express Sport have opined on the matter, with 56 per cent of respondents suggesting that Djokovic should seriously deliberate retiring by the year’s end. Should he opt to heed their counsel, it is feasible that he may have solely two more opportunities to compete in Grand Slams ahead of him, including Wimbledon in July and the US Open in August. In addition, the Paris Olympics in July would also be an event on which Djokovic could have his focus set.
Following his surgery, Djokovic conveyed his gratitude for the support accorded by fans in an Instagram post. He further affirmed his determination to expeditiously return to the court in peak condition, underscoring his enduring ardour for the sport and his unwavering desire to compete at the highest echelons.
Certain individuals, including John McEnroe, have attributed blame to the French Open organizers for Djokovic’s predicament, insinuating that scheduling his matches late at night may have contributed to his physical ailments. McEnroe disparaged the situation, characterizing it as a “joke”, and censured the tournament’s scheduling, contending that it reflects unfavourably on the sport.
The uncertainty surrounding Djokovic’s future in tennis has occasioned widespread discourse and conjecture regarding what lies in store for the Serbian player. As the tennis community anticipates Djokovic’s convalescence and possible reappearance on the court, his verdict concerning whether to persist in playing at the highest levels continues to be a subject of acute interest and significance within the sport.