Six-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic admits that his health is ‘not great’ following a straight sets loss to Hyeon Chung in the fourth round.
The former world No.1 struggled throughout the match against an inspired Chung, who demonstrated a high level of tennis similar to Djokovic’s own style. Hitting nine double faults and winning only 38% of the points behind his second serve. Raising fears that his troublesome elbow continues to be a problem for him. The Australian Open was Djokovic’s first tournament since Wimbledon after taking a six-month hiatus to rest his elbow based on medical advice.
“It’s not great. Unfortunately, it’s not great. Kind of the end of the first set it started hurting more.” Said Djokovic. “I had to deal with it till the end of the match.”
Once again the Serbian faces uncertainty in the immediate future. Similar to that at the start of the year when he was unsure if he able to compete in Melbourne after withdrawing from warm-up tournaments. Experiencing pain during his clash with Chung, alarm bells are ringing as Djokovic’s camp plot their next move.
“I have to reassess everything with my team, medical team, coaches and everybody, scan it, see what the situation is like.” He explained. “The last couple weeks I played a lot of tennis. Let’s see what’s happening inside.”
The is a silver lining among the disappointment. The Serbian managed to claim three consecutive wins without dropping a set in what was a much needed confidence boost. His wins were over Donald Young, Gael Monfils and Albert Ramos. Illustrating glimpses of the tennis that has previously brought him 12 grand slam titles.
“I have to say I’m very grateful I had the chance to play. I didn’t know if I’m going to play or not.” He said.
“I played four matches here (in Melbourne). It was a good tournament, of course. I mean, it’s disappointing to go out in the fourth round. The circumstances are such. I have to accept it. That’s the reality.”
Praise for Chung
Regardless of the loss, Djokovic refuses to take anything away from Chung. The 21-year-old blasted 47 winners to become the first Korean player in history to reach the quarter-final of a grand slam tournament. It was a case of sweet revenge for Chung, who lost to Djokovic in straight sets at the tournament back in 2016.
“He was a better player on the court tonight. He deserved to win, no question about it.” Djokovic said of the world No.58.
“Whenever he was in trouble, he came up with some unbelievable shots, passing shots. Just from the back of the court, he was like a wall.”
It is the second consecutive year where Djokovic has failed to reach the last eight in Melbourne. Something that hasn’t happened since 2007. That year was also the last time he lost a match in straight sets at the tournament.
