Follow usDefending champion Novak Djokovic has expressed uncertainty about his fitness for the French Open quarter-final, blaming the “slippery” Roland Garros clay for aggravating a knee injury. The 37-year-old world number one overcame a challenging five-set match against Argentine 23rd seed Francisco Cerundolo in the fourth round, winning 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 despite being hindered by the injury.
Djokovic will face Norwegian seventh seed Casper Ruud, whom he defeated in last year’s final, in the quarter-finals on Wednesday. However, Djokovic admitted his doubts about his ability to compete: “At one point I didn’t know if I should continue,” he said. “I don’t know what will happen tomorrow or if I’ll be able to step out on the court and play. I hope so. Let’s see what happens.”
For the second time in three days, the 24-time major champion had to fight back from a two-sets-to-one deficit. His fourth-round match with Cerundolo began around 4pm local time on Monday, just over 36 hours after his previous contest against Lorenzo Musetti finished at 03:07 on Sunday morning. Despite the quick turnaround, Djokovic displayed remarkable mental and physical resilience to secure another gruelling victory lasting four hours and 39 minutes.
Upon sealing the win, Djokovic broke into a beaming smile and pointed to his chest and then to the court in celebration. This victory marked Djokovic’s 370th at a Grand Slam tournament, surpassing his great rival Roger Federer.
Reflecting on the match, Djokovic said, “I don’t know how I won,” acknowledging the immense challenge he faced.
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