Novak Djokovic underwent surgery on his knee, the world number one said on Thursday, after he was forced to pull out of the French Open with an injury that could threaten his Wimbledon and Olympic chances.
The injury, sustained in his fourth-round win over Francisco Cerundolo, ended the Serb’s quest to win a record-extending 25th Grand Slam trophy and will result in him losing his top ranking to Italian Jannik Sinner on Monday.
The French Open said MRI results revealed that Djokovic, who played on with pain-killers, had suffered a torn medial meniscus that prompted him to take the decision.
“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 said in a post on Instagram.
“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, will take place from July 1-14, while the men’s singles tennis tournament at the Paris Olympics is scheduled for July 27-Aug. 4.
Djokovic’s injury was the latest in a series of unfortunate events for the 37-year-old, who won three out of the four majors last year but has looked off the pace this season.
He has not won a title in 2024 and suffered a semi-final defeat by eventual winner Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open in January.
He was due to play Casper Ruud in the quarter-finals as he bid for a fourth title at Roland-Garros but was forced to pull out after “careful consideration and consultation.”
It ended his hopes of a 25th Grand Slam title and will also see him lose his world No. 1 ranking to Jannik Sinner at the end of the tournament.
Surgery casts further doubt on whether Djokovic will be fit in time for Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.
He is a seven-time champion at the All England Club but was beaten in an epic final by Carlos Alcaraz last year.
Perhaps more worryingly for Djokovic and his fans, it could jeopardise his quest for a first Olympic gold medal.
The 37-year-old has made no secret of his desire to add that to his roll of honour, but the Paris Games is fast approaching, with the men’s singles kicking off on July 27.
