Djokovic shares injury scare after dramatic French Open win

Defending 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.

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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.