Novak Djokovic explained how Taylor Fritz helped him on his comeback from knee surgery.
Just over a month after having an operation to repair his torn meniscus the 37-year-old has reached his 10th Wimbledon final.
Reports were suggesting the World number two would be unable to compete at SW19 due to the short window of recovery time.
But as he has done so often on the court, Djokovic has defied the odds and has an opportunity to claim a 25th Grand Slam title.
What did Novak Djokovic say about Taylor Fritz after reaching the Wimbledon final?
Djokovic did plenty of research to see if it was possible for him to return to action so soon after having knee surgery.
He spoke to athletes who had suffered similar injuries such as Fritz, who tore his meniscus at the 2021 French Open while playing Dominik Koepfer and needed surgery.
A month later he was competing and reached the third round of Wimbledon, which was his best result there at the time. Fritz shared his experiences with Djokovic, for which he was extremely grateful.
“Let’s not forget Taylor Fritz. He was in the same situation and had even less days than I had. He came back after 21 days exactly after his surgery and played three rounds at Wimbledon,” he told reporters.
“It was great for me. It was really encouraging to know there was already someone like him who had been through the same situation and he was kind enough to share his journey. That gave me even more confidence.
“He didn’t make the final but he lost a tight four setter in the third round against Zverev. But I didn’t know if I was going to make the final. I did say before the tournament that I am only going to play if I could go deep in the tournament.”
Who is Novak Djokovic playing in the Wimbledon final?
Djokovic defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 7-6(2), 6-4 to book his spot in the Wimbledon final against Carlos Alcaraz who defeated him in the same match in 2023.
This will be Djokovic’s 37th Grand Slam final and he is aiming to become the first man to win multiple majors after turning 35.
With the confidence in his form and game currently higher than it has been at any point throughout the tournament, Djokovic is ready to give his best against the young Spaniard on Sunday.
“During the match it is business time. It is trying to do your work and outplay your opponent,” the tennis legend said during his on-court interview.
“I am very satisfied and excited to be in another final. I don’t want to stop here and hopefully I will get my hands on that trophy on Sunday.”
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