Novak Djokovic is breathing down Roger Federer‘s neck for the all-time Wimbledon titles record. Fans were worried after Djokovic’s struggles at Roland Garros, but his recent form hints at a strong return to grass. However, a tennis insider has thrown a curveball, suggesting this could spell trouble for Federer’s legacy.
Djokovic’s presence at Wimbledon comes as a surprise to many. He recently suffered a meniscus tear during a match against Francisco Cerundolo at the French Open, which forced him to retire and undergo surgery. Despite the struggles, Novak Djokovic made a rapid recovery and confirmed his participation at Wimbledon. This sudden turnaround has put Roger Federer’s Wimbledon record under threat. Federer holds the top spot with eight Wimbledon titles, but Djokovic currently stands as a danger with just one title behind.
In a recent episode of “Served with Andy Roddick“, the former American pro and Jon Wertheim shared their thoughts on Novak Djokovic’s unexpected recovery along with projecting his performance at Wimbledon. Amazed to witness the Serb’s speedy recovery, Andy asked Jon: “Have you seen any of the videos that he’s been putting out?” He further went on to lay bare his take on the recovery videos that the Serb is putting out there days before Wimbledon.
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“As far as the recovery, I’m stunned. It’s like it’s the most Novak thing I’ve ever seen where we’re doubting him. It’s him against the world, and all of a sudden he’s doing one-legged hops on a knee that he just had surgery on.” Completely agreeing with what Roddick stated, Jon Wertheim mentioned how his true levels would sink Roger Federer’s ship. “If he’s in the draw, he is a contender, and if he wins this event, I think you could very well make a case this is the greatest male grass court player of all time,” he added.
🎤 @DjokerNole talks about winning, and rehab investment, and NO retirement (yet) 💜🌱 pic.twitter.com/0pnPuSFJJ6
— TRAVEL&Sp🎾rts (@travel__Sports) June 24, 2024
While Novak Djokovic hasn’t officially announced his participation in Wimbledon, the 37-year-old fueled speculation by arriving at the All England Club and practicing on court on Monday. “I didn’t come here to play a few rounds,” Djokovic told the BBC. “If I know I can play close to my maximum or at maximum, then I’ll play. If not, then I’ll give somebody else a chance to play.”
Djoker further emphasized his rehabilitation progressed steadily, showing small but consistent improvements each day. This positive trend fueled his hope and determination to continue pushing forward. Ultimately, his participation hinged on achieving peak condition – only if he felt confident in his ability to contend for the title would he step onto the court.
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Despite having his Wimbledon legacy surrounded by dark clouds, Roger Federer stood beside Novak Djokovic to make a big promise.
Roger Federer guarantees Novak Djokovic his support during rough times
The Swiss tennis maestro Roger Federer is currently busy with the promotion of his documentary. While everyone received a chance to relive the moments of his retirement and the strong bond shared with the ‘Big Four’, he took a moment to make a big promise for everyone, including his on-court rival Novak Djokovic.
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“I follow my rivals & friends with pleasure. I am interested in the results, I play and watch as much tennis as possible. We get along very well with Djokovic, Nadal and Murray. I will always be grateful for what they have done for me: if they need me I will always be there for them,” Roger Federer said in a recent interview.
These words highlight the fact that the Swiss tennis maestro is not concerned about who breaks his record. While it has been a long time since he ended his career for good, competition is not what concerns him now.