Novak Djokovic Explains Why He Rushed Back for Wimbledon

Novak Djokovic explained why he rushed back from knee surgery to play Wimbledon.

Novak Djokovic does not want to miss Wimbledon. / Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Ever since Novak Djokovic suffered a tear in his right meniscus at the French Open, tennis fans have closely followed his surgery and rehabilitation.

The quick turnaround, plus the change from clay to grass courts, has caused some to wonder why the 24-time Grand Slam champion would risk rushing back from knee surgery.

Djokovic spoke with the media ahead of Wimbledon and was asked why he wanted to speed up his return. The legendary player gave a candid and lengthy answer.

"It's a good question, my wife asked me too. I'm 37 years old, maybe you want to take less risks and prepare for the Olympic Games. I have the feeling of not missing a Grand Slam as long as I can play, as long as I'm active and at this level," said Djokovic.

He continued, "I wouldn't call it a fear of missing out, just an incredible desire to play, to compete. Especially because it's Wimbledon, the tournament that has always been a dream for me. The simple idea of missing Wimbledon was not right; I didn't want to deal with it."

Novak Djokovic loss to Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon last year. / Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Djokovic also shared his optimistic mindset going into Wimbledon, "I haven't come here to play a few rounds. I want to go for the title. The last three days have made me optimistic that I can really compete at the highest level."

Djokovic assuaged any concerns about his knee by concluding, "My intensity is very high now. The knee is fine; there has been no negative reaction."

Following his surgery, Djokovic reached out to Taylor Fritz for advice on the recovery process. Fritz told Djokovic and the media that it was an injury that would not cause a player to miss much time.

Djokovic has won Wimbledon seven times, including as recently as 2022. One more title at the All England Club and Djokovic will tie Roger Federer's all-time record. Last year, Carlos Alcaraz defeated Djokovic in the Wimbledon finals.

Djokovic's campaign starts Tuesday with a first-round match against Vit Kopriva. Tennis fans can follow Sports Illustrated's Serve on SI for all the most important news from the sport.

Further Reading: Ranking the three worst draws of Wimbledon 2024.