“Andy Murray withdrawing is a great blow to the tournament” : Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic believes that Andy Murray’s withdrawal from the singles event at Wimbledon is a great blow to the tournament. The two-time Wimbledon champion went through a back surgery a couple of weeks ago, and was hopeful of recovering in time for Wimbledon.
However, in a late announcement, Andy Murray stated that he would not participate in the Singles event. This year could have probably marked the Briton’s last appearance at Wimbledon, given that he intends to retire after the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Novak Djokovic claimed a straight sets victory over Vit Kopriva in the first round clash, and eased any concerns over his knee injury. The Serbian spoke about Andy Murray’s withdrawal from the tournament in his post match speech, and how detrimental it could be for the Grand Slam event.
Novak Djokovic also revealed that he sent his best wishes to the veteran, as he hopes that Andy Murray can retire on his own terms. “It’s tough, you feel helpless that something is not allowing you to do what you love the most,” Djokovic said in his on-court interview.
“Andy Murray withdrawing is a great blow to the tournament, it’s unfortunate. Great respect to him for what he has done in this tournament and this sport. I just hope he will be able to finish his career on his terms. I send him my best and to anybody out there really struggling with injuries, I think it is worth acknowledging all these athletes who are struggling,” said Djokovic.
Novak Djokovic storms into the second round of Wimbledon
There were concerns over Novak Djokovic’s participation at Wimbledon as well, given that he went through a surgery just last month. However, the Serbian cruised into the second round at Wimbledon, dropping just five games in the first round.
Novak Djokovic revealed that there were certainly question marks as to how he would feel physically after his first round clash on Tuesday. He applauded the efforts of his team, who have worked tirelessly over the last three weeks to make sure he is ready to compete at Wimbledon.
“Obviously, coming into Wimbledon for me this year was very different because of the knee,” he said. “I’m just really glad with how I played and how I felt on the court. I didn’t know how everything was going to unfold on the court. I’m extremely glad with the way I felt and the way I played today. Thank you all for coming out and supporting,” said Djokovic.
“I tried to really focus on the game and not think about the knee too much. Everything that I could do, I have done over the last three weeks along with my team to be able to play here for you today,” he added.
Novak Djokovic has a big summer ahead of him, as he chases an elusive Olympic singles gold medal in Paris later this month. The world number two has struggled on the tour this season, given that he is yet to win a title so far. Moreover, injuries seemed to have plagued his season so far. However, the 24-time Grand Slam champion is confident of achieving success in the second half of the season.
