Novak Djokovic played ‘pain-free’ in an exhibition match against Daniil Medvedev on Friday in London, three days before the start of Wimbledon. The Serb had meniscus surgery three weeks ago.
‘I can tell you that I really enjoyed it. 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 an achievement. 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 appeared hampered in his game.
Djokovic, 37, had to undergo surgery after being injured during Roland Garros. He 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.
‘I absolutely wanted to give myself a chance to play at Wimbledon. I think my surgeon is here. He’s the MVP of the last three weeks,’ said the record holder for Grand Slam victories (24).
/ATS
