Once again a member of the ‘Big Four’ has brought their season to an early end due to their injury struggles.
On July 26th, the same date Roger Federer announced his hiatus in 2016, Novak Djokovic confirmed that he will not play another tournament again this year. The Serbian has been troubled by injury in recent time and withdrew from the Wimbledon championships due to an elbow problem. Earlier this week a doctor that evaluated his elbow said he needed between 6-12 weeks to fully recover.
“All the doctors I’ve consulted, and all the specialists I have visited, in Serbia and all over the world, have agreed that this injury requires rest. A prolonged break from the sport is inevitable. I’ll do whatever it takes to recover. I will use the upcoming period to strengthen my body and also to improve certain tennis elements that I have not been able to work on over the past years, due to a demanding schedule.” Djokovic said in a statement.
It is hoped that the break will help Djokovic recover both physically and mentally after what has been a roller-coaster year. He ends the season with only two titles to his name from Doha and Eastbourne. His lowest tally since 2010. Overall, he has won 32 out of 40 matches contested in 2017, but failed to go beyond the quarter-finals at three consecutive grand slam tournaments.
Ubitennis founder Ubaldo Scanagatta analyses Djokovic’s decision in a special podcast and explains why the demanding schedule is having a negative effect on both Djokovic and the entire men’s tour.
