Novak Djokovic has reassured fans that a recent video showing him limping at Doha airport was not related to his previous hamstring injury, stating that he simply “hit himself really badly” on the ankle. The incident sparked concerns after the 24-time Grand Slam winner was filmed limping following his loss to Matteo Berrettini at the Qatar Open. However, Djokovic has clarified the situation ahead of his return to the “Sunshine Double” at Indian Wells, confirming that the injury is “behind” him.
The Doha Airport Incident: A Painful Misstep, Not a Recurring Injury
Djokovic addressed the viral video, explaining that the limp was due to an unfortunate encounter with his own ankle in the early hours of the morning at Doha airport.
“It was really, yeah, awkward to see that video because I arrived at the airport, and I hit myself really badly as I was walking out because it was very early, I think, 4 or 5 a.m. I was just limping because I hit myself badly on the ankle. That’s all. It was just a hit. It was nothing else,” Djokovic stated.
This clarification aims to dispel any rumors of a re-aggravation of the hamstring injury that had previously forced him to retire from the Australian Open semi-final.
Hamstring Injury Recovery: ‘I Haven’t Felt Any Problems’
The Serbian tennis star emphasized that he has fully recovered from the hamstring injury that plagued him earlier this year.
- “The injury is behind me. I mean, hopefully,” Djokovic said, expressing optimism about his current physical condition.
- “I haven’t felt any problems prior to Doha, end of Doha tournament I felt completely fine, as I have felt in the lead-up to Indian Wells, my training weeks.”
Djokovic’s statements suggest that he is entering the Indian Wells tournament with confidence in his fitness and readiness to compete.
Return to the Sunshine Double: Indian Wells and Miami Open
Djokovic is gearing up for a highly anticipated return to the “Sunshine Double,” competing at Indian Wells and the Miami Open in the same season for the first time since 2019. This marks a significant moment in his season, as he aims to improve his performance in these prestigious tournaments.
- “I really look forward coming to Indian Wells and Miami this year, you know. I’ll play the Sunshine Double first time after, I think, six years. So I look forward to that.”
- He acknowledged his past struggles at these events: “I haven’t done really well in Indian Wells and Miami ever since 2016 or ’17, and I struggled to find my best game here.”
Coaching Connection with Andy Murray
Adding another layer of intrigue to Djokovic’s preparation is his continued coaching connection with Andy Murray. The two-time Wimbledon champion is working alongside Djokovic, and his effect on Djokovic’s training is clearly beneficial. Murray was also with Djokovic at the Australian Open and will be present for the Miami Open and most of the clay-court swing. “Hopefully Wimbledon, as well,” said Djokovic, emphasizing his enjoyment of the relationship.
Eyes on the 100th Title
As Djokovic embarks on the Sunshine Double, he has his sights set on a significant milestone: his 100th ATP title. “I hope that the 100th trophy can come to Doha right now. I’ve been chasing it for a long time – it will come when it should come,” Djokovic stated earlier in February.
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