After undergoing meniscus surgery three weeks ago, Novak Djokovic played “painlessly” in an exhibition match against Daniil Medvedev on Friday in London, three days before the start of Wimbledon.
“I can tell you that I really enjoyed it a lot. Pain-free tennis is the best! I didn’t have any pain and I’m very happy about it,” said the Serb after beating the Russian 6-3, 6-4 at the Hurlingham Club in the British capital.
“I had played a few practice sets but I wanted to have a real test. This is a success. The last three weeks have been intense, I have spent a lot of time on rehabilitation,” said the seven-time Wimbledon champion, who wore a bandage on his knee but never seemed to be hampered in his game.
Djokovic, 37, had to undergo surgery after being injured during Roland Garros and had to withdraw before the quarter-finals.
Friday, the draw gave him the 123rd in the world, the Czech Vit Kopriv, as an opponent in the first round of Wimbledon where he will be seeded No. 2, having ceded the first place in the world to the Italian Jannik Sinner.
“I absolutely wanted to give myself a chance to play at Wimbledon. I think my surgeon is there. He’s the MVP of the last three weeks,” said the record holder for Grand Slam victories (24).
