Novak Djokovic’s injury will not threaten his Australian Open campaign

Serbia journey to the United Cup 2024 came to an abrupt end in the quarter-finals, but the worst news could concern Novak Djokovic’s condition. The ATP No.1 appeared to be in serious difficulty and, unlike the match with Jiri Lehecka, was unable to control the wrist problem.

During the match with Alex de Minaur, which opened the match against Australia, Djokovic called the physiotherapist several times to have his wrist and forearm massaged with the hope of reducing the intensity of the pain.

A hope that became increasingly vain with the passing of the minutes, as remarked by the protagonist himself during a change of court. De Minaur achieved the most important victory of his career by beating the number 1 for the first time with a double 6-4.

The Australian ended Djokovic’s incredible streak of 43 consecutive wins in Australia, starting in 2019. This time, Djokovic was unable to overcome the physical difficulties and succumbed with a score of 4-6, 4-6. Serbia thus stopped in the quarter-finals, because Ajla Tomljanovic dominated against Natalija Stevanovic.

Nole will have to monitor his condition, to reach Melbourne in form

“I congratulate De Minaur, he was really solid from the start of the match. He played a great match and deserved the victory. I wasn’t at my usual level, it was one of those days when you don’t feel your best.

This is what I can say. I have enough time to find the right form for the Australian Open: that’s the most important thing right now,” said Djokovic at a press conference.

“I think I’ll be fine, to be honest.

It affected my serve and my forehand today, but I don’t want to waste too much time talking about it or not give De Minaur due credit for winning. I congratulate him and his team again. I knew I wouldn’t be 100% physically, emotionally and mentally at the start of the season.

It’s all part of the preparation ahead of the Australian Open. It’s never nice to lose a game, but I won’t think much about this defeat. I’m trying to recover from this wrist problem and will try to follow my routine. I’ve been in this type of situation so many times and I know what I need to do with my team to prepare.

Of course you never know what could happen. In 2021 and 2023 I got injured just before the Australian Open and managed to win the tournament. I hope I don’t have any injuries this time,” he told. The Serb’s words reassured his fans, who were worried when they noted his precarious physical condition in the match against De Minaur.

His rivals are warned: Nole’s injury will not threaten his Australian Open 2024 campaign, however, considering that there is not much time available before the Melbourne Slam, Nole will have to monitor his condition and recover if he wants to participate in Melbourne in full form.