Novak Djokovic triumphs in Wimbledon final after knee surgery
London (dpa) – The Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic has described his journey to the Wimbledon final as „surreal“. Just over five weeks ago, the 37-year-old underwent knee surgery. „I don’t want to prove people wrong,“ Djokovic said in response to a question, „I really focused on making Wimbledon possible for myself this year.“
He emphasized that he was not reckless and did not act against the advice of medical professionals. „I never pushed anything,“ said the seven-time Wimbledon champion, stating that he followed every recommended step in his rehabilitation: „I even did more than that.“
Knee surgery in early June
Djokovic sustained a meniscus tear in the French Open round of 16, forcing him to withdraw from the tournament before the quarterfinals in Paris. In early June, he underwent knee surgery. Now, the 24-time Grand Slam winner secured his spot in his tenth Wimbledon final by defeating Italian Lorenzo Musetti in three sets in the semifinals.
On Sunday, the former world number one will face defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a rematch of last year’s final for the title at the most prestigious grasscourt tournament in the world.
Just days before the tournament began, Djokovic had left his participation in London up in the air. In the initial rounds, he admitted he hadn’t been thinking about the title. „I was only focused on moving well, not getting injured, to be honest, and feeling freer in my movements,“ explained the record Grand Slam winner. By the third and especially the fourth round, he realized he was close to his peak form and had a chance at the title.