NEW DELHI:
Novak Djokovic
, the world number one tennis player, revealed on Thursday that he has undergone knee surgery. This follows his withdrawal from the
French Open
due to an injury sustained during his fourth-round victory over
Francisco Cerundolo
. The injury not only ended
Djokovic
's bid for a record-extending 25th
Grand Slam
title but also casts doubt on his participation in
Wimbledon
and the Olympics.
As a result, he will lose his top ranking to Italy's
Jannik Sinner
on Monday.
The French Open announced that MRI results showed Djokovic had suffered a torn medial meniscus, prompting his decision to undergo surgery. "In the past day, I had to make some tough decisions after sustaining a meniscus tear during my last match. I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well," Djokovic shared in an Instagram post.
"I am so appreciative of the team of doctors who have been by my side, as well as the overwhelming support I have received from my fans. I'm going to do my best to be healthy and fit to return to the court as soon as possible. My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going."
Wimbledon, which Djokovic has won seven times, is scheduled from July 1-14, while the men's singles tennis tournament at the
Paris Olympics
is set for July 27-August 4.
This injury is the latest setback for the 37-year-old, who, despite winning three out of the four majors last year, has struggled this season. Djokovic has yet to secure a title in 2024 and suffered a semi-final defeat to eventual winner Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open in January.
(Inputs from Reuters)
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