24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic said he hopes to see Andy Murray give singles another shot at Wimbledon next year.
As he empathised with those who have been dealing with recurring injury concerns on the tour. Djokovic shook off a knee injury concern to clinch a dominant first-round win against World No. 123 Vit Kopriva 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 in the grass-court Grand Slam on Tuesday.
Novak Djokovic’s victory came hours after Andy Murray confirmed that he would not be playing singles in what would be his last appearance at Wimbledon. Murray will play doubles with his brother Jamie. Andy Murray underwent surgery on June 22 to remove a spinal cyst which was compressing his nerves and made him lose control and power in his right leg. Murray arrived at SW19 and held back his decision on singles participation until Tuesday. However, Murray acknowledged he was not ready to compete in singles despite putting in a lot of hard work to be ready for his Wimbledon farewell.
“Andy Murray withdrawing is a great blow to the tournament. Great respect to him. All he’s done in this tournament, in this sport,” Novak Djokovic said during his on-court interview after the first-round win.
“I hope he’ll be able to finish his career on his terms. I heard he’s going to play doubles. Hopefully, he’ll give it another shot next year in singles. I just send him my bestâ€æ it’s worth acknowledging all these athletes that are struggling,” he added.
Murray, a two-time champion at Wimbledon, had previously said he would not continue playing on the professional tour beyond 2024. Murray is set to bow out after the Olympics in Paris.
‘I HAVE BEEN VERY FORTUNATE’
Djokovic underwent a minor surgery to treat a knee injury that forced him to withdraw from his quarter-final match at the French Open last month. The Serb made an earlier-than-expected recovery and returned to action and competed at Wimbledon in less than four weeks after the surgery.
Djokovic said he was fortunate to have escaped major injuries throughout his career and thanked his surgeon for helping him recover on time to play the Wimbledon where he is bidding to win an 8th title.
“I’ve been fortunate comparing myself to other 37-year-olds. I had injuries like anybody else but they come and go. It’s part of what you do. You just have to accept it and embrace it. I think Nick Kyrgios is in the commentary box. He’s been struggling a lot with injuries. Talking about major injuries he’s had a few.
“I’ve been very fortunate to not be away from tennis for long. As an athlete, I empathize with Nick and anyone who’s struggling. You almost feel helpless at times that something isn’t allowing you to come back to what you love most and you’re unable to do your profession for years,” Djokovic said.