Novak Djokovic has given his first big update on his fitness status since his arrival at Wimbledon – and the signs appear to be positive.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion went under the knife on June 5 after suffering a torn meniscus in his right knee during a fourth-round win over Francisco Cerundolo at the French Open.
At the time, it appeared hugely unlikely that Djokovic would be able to play at Wimbledon, with a first Olympic gold medal his biggest goal, but the Serbian has made remarkable progress and could well be in the draw on Friday after all.
That is not yet guaranteed, with Djokovic keen to test himself in practice over the next few days, but a post on the social media site X showed the 37-year-old hitting at the All England Club on Sunday.
Now he has spoken to the media for the first time and it is clear that he will only leave his name in the draw that will take place on Friday morning if he believes he is in shape to challenge for a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title.
When asked whether he was in London believing he could win Wimbledon again, Djokovic offered up these comments: “Of course. That’s why I’m here.
“I didn’t come here to play a few rounds. You can never really know 100 per-cent once you start a tournament what’s going to happen after the first match or second match,”
“It’s great to be back. The plan all along was to try to play Wimbledon so that’s what I’m trying to do.
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“That’s why I came here earlier and to see how it goes. Many people think it’s maybe not realistic or maybe not smart, but I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t get permission from the medical team. They are very happy with the way everything is going so I’m taking things gradually.
“I’m not pushing myself yet 100% but I’m hoping that’s going to come within the next few days.
“The rehab has been going in the right direction every single day.
“I’m going to take it day by day and then make a decision based over the next four or five, six days and if I know that I can play close to my maximum or at maximum, then I’ll play if not, then give somebody else a chance to play.”
The clear cut-off date for Djokovic to make a decision on his Wimbledon participation is Thursday evening and he is working towards that.
“I might need a day or two more but I’m going to give my best to make a decision before the draw so I can be fair towards the other players but I don’t know how it’s gonna go,” he stated.
“Obviously, it’s unpredictable. It’s also unpredictable what’s going to happen once the tournament starts for me, hopefully. But you know, I like my trajectory so far.”
Djokovic was also asked about Andy Murray’s efforts to make a return to the court after he underwent back surgery on Sunday and he sent his best wishes to the two-time All England Club champion.
“I really hope he plays,” added Djokovic. “I hope for his sake and also for Wimbledon. We all know what Andy Murray has done here and what he means for this country, this city and this tournament.
“It might be his last so I’m sure he’s going to give his best. Wimbledon has always been my favourite tournament. A dream tournament that I always wanted to win so I understand it’s probably the same for Andy.”