Novak Djokovic might be in the 2024 Wimbledon Championships final, but he had serious doubts about whether he’d be able to play at the event.
When the 37-year-old injured his knee at Roland Garros weeks ago, many were cautious about the injury. When he confirmed it was a meniscus tear, his participation in the grass-court major was in doubt.
Andy Roddick famously contemplated whether Djokovic might take a few months off, possibly the entire year, to get his knee healthy, but the Serbian opted to undergo surgery immediately and started rehabilitation shortly after that.
A couple of weeks later, the Serbian recovered in time for Wimbledon and played well. He played so well that he made it to the final when he wasn’t even sure whether he would be able to play. That’s what makes this whole run even more impressive because nobody saw it coming.
“There was plenty of doubts. Coming into London 8 days before the tournament started. I didn’t know if I’d be part of the tournament or not. I was keeping everything open til the day of the draw. I played a few practice sets with top players and exhibition matches which proved to me I’m in a good enough state to go deep.”
“I said before the tournament if I felt like I didn’t have a chance to go deep in the tournament I probably wouldn’t be playing. That kind of mentality is ever present. I’m just very pleased and thankful to all the team members for helping me arrive to where I am.”
Ultimately, making the final could mean nothing to the Serbian. Losing in the final means nothing, as it’s the same as if he lost in the opening round. He came to London to try and win the trophy, and anything but that likely doesn’t count for the 24-time major winner. He’ll play Carlos Alcaraz for the trophy.
