Novak Djokovic is “99% likely” to miss the US Open according to a Serbian doctor that conducted an examination on his elbow.
Dr Zdenko Milinkovic spoke about the injury during an interview with Serbian newspaper Sportski žurnal. He explained that Djokovic is required to rest for a period of 6-12 weeks in order to fully recover from his injury. Putting both the US Open and Davis Cup in serious doubt.
“Symptoms have calmed down, he was with a specialist in Toronto, on additional tests.” Said Milinkovic. “He also consulted our experts, of course.”
“Now it’s important to look at the different types of procedures that can affect recovery.” He added.
Elaborating on the nature of the injury, it is understood that the injury has worsened due to ‘excessive playing.’ Djokovic won the Eastbourne Open a week before entering the Wimbledon Championships. At SW19 he reached the quarter-finals before retiring in his match against Tomas Berdych.
“He has a bruised bone due to excessive playing. He did not have enough of a pause, Novak clenched his teeth and continued playing despite a serious injury. It was always a big concern for me as his friend.” Said Milinkovic.
Speculation about Djokovic’s season mounted over the weekend. It was confirmed that he will be hosting a press conference in Belgrade later this week. It is expected that will be when he will confirm his plans for the rest of the year.
‘These things happen’
Djokovic has been troubled by the issue on and off over the past 18-months and also withdrew from the Miami Masters due to his elbow. Following his Wimbledon exit, the 30-year-old maintain a positive outlook about his latest setback.
“At a certain stage of your career, you’re going to experience these kind of things.” He said earlier this month.
“Professional tennis has gotten very physical in the last couple of years. It’s not easy to play on the highest level throughout the entire season then be able to do that over and over again every season, and then stay healthy.
“At the end of the day, we’re all humans.”
Should Djokovic spend the full 12 weeks resting, it is uncertain if he will return to the tour this year. There is a chance they he could play some tournaments in Asia during October followed by the Paris Masters.
During the second half of the season, Djokovic has 3740 points to defend on the tour. He is currently ranked fourth in the world.
