Djokovic withdraws from French Open 2024
Defending champion Novak Djokovic has withdrawn before the quarter-finals of the French Open 2024. Djokovic suffered an injury to his right knee in the fourth round match against Francisco Cerundolo.
He also had to take a medical time out in the middle of the match. Novak had to struggle a lot to win this match which lasted for more than four and a half hours. He defeated Cerundolo 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3.
Novak’s right knee was scanned on Tuesday. In which a nerve in his knee was confirmed to have ruptured. After which Novak decided to withdraw from the French Open. He was to play against Norway’s seventh seed Casper Ruud in the quarter-finals. There is also doubt over his playing in the Grand Slam Wimbledon to be held in July.
Djokovic gave information on social media
Djokovic said in a statement on social media, ‘I am very sad to announce that I have to withdraw from Roland Garros (French Open), I played with all my heart in yesterday’s match and gave my best and unfortunately, due to a meniscus tear in my right knee, my team and I thought carefully, after which a difficult decision had to be taken.’
Djokovic further said – ‘I wish the players participating in the French Open this week all the best and sincerely thank my fans for their love and continued support.’
Doubt on playing in Wimbledon; may slip from the world number 1
With Djokovic withdrawing from the French Open, his hopes of winning his 25th Grand Slam title have ended. There is also doubt on playing in Wimbledon, which is scheduled to be held from July 1 next month. Along with this, he may also slip from the world number-1 position after the French Open. In his place, Italy’s Jannik Sinner could reach the top of the world rankings.
Djokovic also holds the record of winning the most matches in Grand Slams
In his last match of the French Open, i.e. pre-quarterfinals, Djokovic defeated Francisco of Argentina in a five-set match that lasted four and a half hours amid pain. The victory over Francisco was his record 370th victory in Grand Slams. He left behind Switzerland’s Roger Federer (369).
