Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the French Open after sustaining a knee injury during his quarter-final match against Francisco Cerundolo. The 24-time Grand Slam champion confirmed that a scan revealed a meniscus tear in his right knee, forcing him to exit the competition.
Tournament organizers announced Djokovic’s withdrawal on Tuesday, followed by a heartfelt message from Djokovic on social media. “I am really sad to announce that I have to withdraw from Roland Garros,” the 37-year-old wrote on Instagram. “I played with my heart and gave my all in yesterday’s match and unfortunately, due to a medial meniscus tear in my right knee, my team and I had to make a tough decision after careful consideration and consultation.”
Djokovic expressed his gratitude to his fans, saying, “I wish the best of luck to the players competing this week and sincerely thank the incredible fans for all the love and continued support. See you soon. With love and gratitude, Nole.”
During his grueling four hours and 39 minutes on Court Philippe-Chatrier, Djokovic was seen in intense discussions with the umpire and a supervisor regarding the slippery court conditions. Post-match, he commented in his press conference that the conditions were “not common.”
Former coach Boris Becker, who has been a long-time supporter of Djokovic, expressed his dismay at the news. “This is bad news for all Djokovic fans, and I’m one of them,” Becker told Eurosport Germany. “You could almost guess it after the match against Cerundolo, which he played with a limp. The painkillers made the fifth set easier, but he had already warned that evening what the next morning would be like. He already had knee problems at the last few tournaments but never spoke about them.”
Becker added, “That’s obviously very bitter for him. I wish him a speedy recovery so that he is fit again for the grass-court season.”
Djokovic’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the tournament and his fans, highlighting the physical demands and risks athletes face in high-level competition.
Djokovic at the French Open, ranking, and results in 2024
Ranked world no.1, Djokovic has achieved a composed 18-6 record in 2024. Djokovic is participating at the French Open where he bested the world no.142 Pierre-Hugues Herbert 6-4 7-63 6-4, the world no.63 Roberto Carballes Baena 6-4 6-1 6-2, the world no.30 Lorenzo Musetti 7-5 6-76 2-6 6-3 6-0 and the world no.27 Francisco Cerundolo 6-1 5-7 3-6 7-5 6-3.
Djokovic has scheduled to compete next at the Wimbledon (Wimbledon). He will start from the main draw that will commence on the 1st of July.
Novak Djokovic |
| Embed from Getty Images |