Carlos Alcaraz paid tribute to Novak Djokovic‘s resiliency after he recovered from a meniscus surgery in record time to play the 2024 Wimbledon Championships.
When Djokovic injured his knee a month ago in Paris, nobody really believed he could play at Wimbledon. When it became known that it was a torn meniscus and that he underwent surgery, even fewer people believed that he could return by the time the grass-court major began.
The doctor who operated on Djokovic famously admitted that he didn’t see him as capable of playing at the event. However, the Serbian believed, and he worked hard every day to make it happen.
He not only showed up in London but also played, and played really well. He played his way to the final, but unfortunately for him, he didn’t have enough to down Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard was impressed by Djokovic’s quick recovery and praised his efforts after the match.
“It’s been a difficult few weeks for you. You guys have done an unbelievable work. After the French open having surgery.. you didn’t know if you’d be able to play this tournament.”
“Making the final is a really great run. Feeling great physically. It’s been unbelievable. I was telling my team it’s something difficult to realize. I have huge respect for you and your team. Great job and keep going.”
This final was certainly not the last time that the 21-year-old had to face Djokovic. It was a much-needed run for the Serbian on a purely psychological level, as he didn’t really have a run like that this year.
He’ll certainly be in the mix at the US Open as he’s the defending champion, and by then, his knee should be totally fine. Everyone on the ATP Tour, including Alcaraz, likely expects Djokovic to bounce back strongly after this final.
