LONDON: Juan Martin del Potro is set to miss Wimbledon after medical tests confirmed that he has once again injured his knee.
At the Fever-Tree Championships on Wednesday, the former US Open champion slipped on the surface during his match against Denis Shapovalov. Whilst he managed to continue playing and went on to win in straight sets, it has now been confirmed that damaged has been done to his right patella. Also known as the kneecap.
Providing an update on Del Potro, spokesman Jorge Viale has confirmed that he will undergo surgery. Effectively ending his grass season. Although there is no official confirmation at present.
“The medical studies done last night in a clinic in London showed that Juan Martin del Potro has suffered again a fracture in his right patella.” A statement reads.
“After consultation with his doctor, Angel Cotorro, it has been determined that it will require surgery. This will take place in the next couple of days with a date and location to be determined. We will keep you informed.”
It is the latest setback for del Potro, who has only been able to play five tournaments so far this season. Last year at the Shanghai Rolex Masters, he injured his knee after suffering a fall on the court. Something which sidelined him from the court for almost four months. He returned to action in February at the Delray Beach Open but was forced to take a further three months off afterward after aggravating the injury.
Since 2010, Del Potro has missed 36 months of the tour due to numerous problems. He is yet to comment about his latest injury setback.
The injury timeline
Jan-Sep 10: right wrist (8 months)
Feb-Jan 14-15: Left wrist (11 months)
Mar-Feb 15-16: left wrist (11 months)
Oct-Feb 18-19: right knee (4 months)
Feb-Apr 19: right knee (2 months)
