Back from knee surgery, Anderson begins ATP return with Djokovic clash

Two-time Grand Slam finalist Kevin Anderson is raring to start the new season, having been sidelined with a knee injury since Wimbledon.

The South African eventually decided to stop his 2019 season and have surgery. He returns this week at the ATP Cup, saying he is now fit to compete.

"After my knee surgery in September, I’ve been very diligent about my rehab process and making sure I do the best things, with the help of my physio and fitness trainer," he told the African News Agency (ANA).

Anderson has had some changes to his team while sidelined: he has stopped working with Brad Stine and former USTA coach Diego Moyano will now be travelling with him on tour. Anderson is also still working with Florida-based Jay Bosworth.

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The 33-year-old described himself as "very pleased" with his level. "I’ve been training quite hard this pre-season," he said.

Anderson, who has not played Davis Cup during most of his career, added that he is looking forward to leading the South African team at the ATP Cup.

"I’m excited about this event. It’s been a long time in planning with the ATP, so it’s great to finally see it start," said Anderson. "I think it’s going to be exciting for the players to start the year playing for their country in this new team event and then also for the fans."

Anderson won't have an easy return, as he is slated to meet 16-time major champion Novak Djokovic Saturday evening in Brisbane. Anderson, who has been as high as No. 5 and finished runner-up to Djokovic in the 2018 Wimbledon final, has dropped to No. 91 in the rankings. The Serbian leads their head-to-head series 8-2 and taken the past two meetings.