Novak Djokovic defied everything that people thought was physically possible at Wimbledon just by getting to the final, so the ease with which he lost should not really be scrutinised.
After all, he simply was met with a challenge that few on the planet can deal with: an in-form Carlos Alcaraz.
The Spaniard was simply irresistible on centre court, and went about his business with maximum proficiency and flair. Realistically, nobody could have stopped him, let alone a half-fit 37-year-old who is yet to win a title in 2024.
However, what it has done is provided Novak Djokovic with a fine physical platform to now build from ahead of the Olympics and the US Open.
Andy Roddick left stunned by Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon
Now likely enjoying a well-earned rest before getting back on the clay-court grind, Andy Roddick has sought to use this temporary break from major tennis to laud the Serbian for his efforts in SW19.
After all, whilst Alcaraz is unsurprisingly and deservedly commanding the bulk of attention, what Djokovic did these past two weeks is borderline superhuman.
He had surgery on a torn meniscus in his right knee less than a month after he returned to tennis, and not only competed, but stormed to the final.
His mere presence deserves accolades. Reaching the final is unheard of.
Roddick wanted to emphasise that, as he claimed on his Served with Andy Roddick podcast: ’It is absurd that Novak was able to make the finals of this event. Surgery, no fitness, not a lot of tennis, no matches. Finals at Wimbledon. Gave yourself a look at the basket. Props to him.’
This came after despite Roddick also praised Alcaraz for doing something ‘unheard of’ during the aforementioned final.
Novak Djokovic can now focus on the Olympics
The Championships crown may have been an important historical step for Djokovic, had he taken it, but ultimately the Olympics remains the priority.
Although, it would have been nice to win a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon title on Sunday whilst also moving alone at the top of the list for most singles Grand Slam titles won of all time.
But, the outstanding absence from his jam-packed trophy cabinet is Olympic gold, and this will surely represent his last real chance to attain it, given he will be 41 by the time the next games roll around.
So, Wimbledon has sort of acted like a pre-season for the real prize that Djokovic will want.
Hopefully, his knee can hold up and he can enjoy a historic run now that he is back in form to finally claim what he will see as rightfully his.
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