Former world No.1 Novak Djokovic may be sidelined from action for another three months, according to his father.
The Serbian recently underwent minor surgery on his elbow in Switzerland. A procedure he described as a ‘small medical intervention.’ Djokovic has only managed to play one tournament since Wimbledon after ending his 2017 season early to rest his elbow. He began his comeback at the Australian Open last month, losing in the fourth round to Hyeon Chung.
There has been limited information concerning the current health of the 30-year-old, but his father has shed some light on the situation. During an interview with Serbian website Novosti, Srđan Djokovic has hinted that his son may not return to competitive tennis until the clay season.
“Rehab is going well and God permitted, he will soon start to play. I expect him at the clay Masters in May.” Srdan said during the interview.
Should this occur, Djokovic will not play again until the Madrid Masters. Held at the Caja Magica the event will get underway during the second week of May. He is a two-time champion of the event, last winning in 2016.
The latest comments partly coincide with another claim in the Serbian media last week. Mondo.rs recently quoted ‘sources close to the Djokovic camp’ that he is set to miss both Acapulco and Indian Wells. On the other hand, they claim that Djokovic could play Miami. Contradicting the words of Srdjan.
“The surgical procedure Novak had was not simple, but the nature of his injury was such that it does not imply such a long pause.” Reports Mondo.
“We will see what will happen, but he will most likely to skip Acapulco and Indian Wells, and play in Miami. We will wait….”
There is yet to be any formal announcement from Djokovic or his management about what his future plans may be. According to his official website, he is still down to compete at both American masters events next month. Although this is now looking increasingly unlikely. The last time he missed both of those tournaments was in 2005.
Currently ranked 14th in the world, the Serbian is in danger of dropping out of the top 20 for the first time since October 2006 over the coming weeks.
