Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has been named in the draw for this year’s tournament, despite ongoing concerns about his fitness following his withdrawal from the French Open.
The 37-year-old Serbian world number two was forced to pull out ahead of his quarter-final match at Roland Garros against Casper Ruud after suffering a tear in the medial meniscus of his right knee.
Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles, stated earlier this week that he would only participate at Wimbledon if he felt he could compete at his best.
“I didn’t come here to play a few rounds,” he told the BBC. “If I know I can play close to my maximum or at maximum, then I’ll play. If not, then I’ll give somebody else a chance to play.”
“I really will only play if I know I am in a state which is good enough to go far in the tournament and fight for the title, so that’s the condition,” he added.
Aiming for Another Title
Djokovic has reached the Wimbledon final in each of the past five years, losing a thrilling five-set match to Carlos Alcaraz last year. His determination to add another Wimbledon title to his collection remains undiminished.
Olympic Ambitions
Beyond Wimbledon, Djokovic is also eyeing success at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, which begin on July 26. The elusive Olympic gold medal is one of the few accolades missing from his illustrious career.
Fitness and Recovery
Djokovic’s team has been working diligently on his recovery since the injury. His presence in the Wimbledon draw indicates a positive outlook on his fitness, but questions remain about his ability to withstand the rigors of a Grand Slam tournament.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching Djokovic’s performance in the early rounds to gauge whether he can mount a serious challenge for the title.
