Novak Djokovic confirms knee surgery, vows to return after Roland Garros withdrawal

Novak Djokovic underwent a procedure to address the medial meniscus injury to his right knee, the 24-time Grand Slam champion confirmed on his official Instagram page.

“In the past day, I had to make some tough decisions after sustaining a meniscus tear during my last match,” Djokovic wrote. “I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well.”

The 37-year-old played back-to-back five-setters at Roland Garros over the weekend, aggravating a pre-existing knee injury in the second against No. 23 seed Francisco Cerundolo.

An MRI scan on Tuesday revealed that Djokovic had suffered a medial meniscus tear, forcing him to withdraw from the second major tournament of 2024 ahead of his scheduled quarterfinal against No. 7 seed Casper Ruud.

A three-time champion on the terre battue, Djokovic’s withdrawal means that world No. 2 Jannik Sinner is guaranteed to rise to No. 1 on the ATP rankings on Monday.

“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.”

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. Novak Djokovic

The typical recovery period for a surgery of this magnitude can range from three to six weeks, putting a return in time for next month’s Wimbledon Championships in serious doubt. Djokovic will also be looking to compete at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, which will take place starting July 27.

“My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going,” Djokovic concluded. “Idemooo 💪💪”