Novak Djokovic has been forced to pull out of the French Open 2024 with an injury – so how long could he be ruled out for?
The Roland Garros defending champion was forced to withdraw from the French Open 2024 on Tuesday, meaning he will not face off with Casper Ruud on day 11, with the Norwegian advancing straight through to the semis.
Djokovic has pulled out with a torn medial meniscus, sustained during his dramatic five‑set win against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday.
It’s terrible news, which has tennis fans with a lot to say, which in turn begs the question – how long could the Serbian be sidelined for?
How long is Novak Djokovic out for after French Open injury?
Novak Djokovic suffered a meniscus tear, which means his best-case scenario is that he will return in 4-6 weeks.
As of the time of injury, this means a time period from Tuesday the 4th of July and Tuesday the 16th of July. This is according to Columbia Doctors.
What is the worst-case scenario for Djokovic?
The worst-case scenario is that the 37-year-old will in fact need surgery, which definitely complicates things a little bit more.
The same site suggests that most athletes can expect to return to their sport approximately 3 to 6 months following surgery. This would mean Djokovic could realistically be out until August 2024 – December 2024.
| Activity | Uncomplicated meniscectomy | Meniscus repair surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Bear weight (put weight on your knee while standing or walking) | Right away, as tolerated | 0 to 6 weeks |
| Walk without crutches | 2 to 7 days | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Drive, if the affected leg is to be used for gas and brake or for clutch | 1 to 2 weeks, if:You have regained motion with minimal pain.You are not taking opioids. | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Regain full range of motion | 1 to 2 weeks | Motion is typically restricted for first 4 to 6 weeks to allow the meniscus to heal. |
| Return to heavy work or sports | 4 to 6 weeks, if:You have regained motion and strength.Your knee is not swollen or painful. | 3 to 6 months |
A setback for Novak Djokovic…
The French Open 2024 title will not be Djokovic’s, and it says a lot about the harsh nature of the sport.
Although thrilling for the fans, Djokovic’s prior clash with Lorenzo Musetti was an absolute slog for the Serbian, which ultimately ended in a quite horrendous injury in the very next clash.
It may need a rethink, but whats done is done. We wish Novak a speedy recovery here at The Tennis Gazette.
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