‘Pain-free tennis is…’: Novak Djokovic opens up on his fitness after exhibition match against Daniil Medvedev – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has declared himself “pain-free” after undergoing surgery earlier this month to address a serious knee injury sustained during the French Open.

The former world number one participated in an exhibition match against Daniil Medvedev on Friday, ahead of the Wimbledon tournament, which commences on Monday.

Despite his recent surgery, Djokovic has secured his place in the Wimbledon draw, where he is seeded second. His opening match will be against Vit Kopriv of the Czech Republic, currently ranked 123rd in the world.

During the exhibition event at the Hurlingham Club in London, Djokovic’s movement was not entirely smooth, and his right knee was strapped up. However, he displayed impressive ball-striking abilities and served well, defeating Medvedev 6-3, 6-4.

Djokovic expressed his delight at being able to play pain-free tennis, stating, “I can tell you that I enjoyed myself really, really much today. I can tell you that pain-free tennis is the best tennis. I was pain-free, and I’m really glad. It was a great test obviously against one of the best players in the world.”

He acknowledged the intense three-week rehabilitation period following his surgery, during which he dedicated numerous hours to recovery.

“I’ve played a couple of practice sets, but I really wanted to test myself. The test was very successful so I’m obviously really glad. It’s been an intense three week after surgery, spending a lot of hours rehabbing,” added the 37-year-old.

The Serbian tennis legend, who holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles titles won by a male player with 24, expressed his determination to give himself a chance to compete at Wimbledon, saying, “I’m trying to take it day by day and see how far it goes.”


Djokovic’s approach to his recovery has been proactive, as he sought advice and guidance from fellow tennis players and athletes who have experienced similar injuries.

“I asked many athletes — (Stan) Wawrinka, (skier) Lindsey Vonn, (footballer) Zlatan Ibrahimovic — and they were all very kind to share some of their experiences and give me some contacts of people who could help me out,” added the tennis icon.

Djokovic’s declaration of being “pain-free” and his impressive performance in the exhibition match against Daniil Medvedev have raised hopes for his participation and potential success at Wimbledon.