Novak Djokovic Targets Wimbledon Glory Amid Injury Recovery

Novak Djokovic is deliberating on whether he will participate in this year’s Wimbledon, emphasizing that he will only compete if he feels capable of contending for the title. He is recovering from knee surgery prompted by a torn medial meniscus during the French Open, and the seven-time champion has been steadily progressing. At Wimbledon, Djokovic, 37, spent nearly two hours training with a supportive bandage on his knee.

He expressed his delight at returning to the All England Club and asserted his intention to compete at his peak or not at all. “I didn’t come here to play a few rounds,” Djokovic affirmed to BBC Sport. Assessing his recovery, Djokovic indicated optimism about his trajectory. “I really will only play if I know I am in a state which is good enough to go far in the tournament and fight for the title, so that’s the condition,” he clarified.

During his practice session, observers closely watched Djokovic as he worked on groundstrokes, serves, and volleys alongside Argentina’s Federico Coria.  They played two tie-breaks, with Djokovic winning the first and losing the second. Reflecting on his rehabilitation progress, Novak Djokovic acknowledged making incremental improvements daily, giving him hope for a full recovery soon. “I’m taking things gradually. I’m not pushing myself yet 100% but I’m hoping that’s going to come in the next few days,” he remarked.

A mainstay at Wimbledon with 18 appearances, Djokovic has reached the final in the past five years, including a memorable match in 2023 against Carlos Alcaraz. Looking ahead, Djokovic is also focused on representing Serbia at the Paris Olympics, aiming to secure the elusive gold medal.