Novak Djokovic declared on Monday he would only play at Wimbledon if he was convinced he could win the title for a record-equalling eighth time.
The 37-year-old was out practicing on the grounds of the All England Club on Monday only 19 days on from undergoing surgery on a torn medial meniscus in his right knee, an injury he suffered at the French Open earlier this month.
Djokovic, who was sporting a grey support on the troublesome knee as well as a black sleeve on his right arm, hit with Argentinian player Federico Coria for two hours and appeared to be moving well in what was a controlled session.
The Serb is yet to make a final decision on his participation at this year’s Championship, which gets underway next week, where he would go in search of equalling Roger Federer’s record of eight singles titles.
‘I didn’t come here to play a few rounds,’ said Djokovic. ‘I’m going to play if I really know. I’m going to take it day-by-day and then make a decision based on the conclusion that I and team members have made.
Novak Djokovic returned to the practice court at Wimbledon on Monday
He appeared to be moving well less than three weeks on from undergoing knee surgery
He is still yet to make a final decision on whether he will play at Wimbledon after pulling out of the French Open with a knee injury earlier this month
‘The feelings after surgery I had was always going to try to make Wimbledon, even though many people think it’s maybe not realistic or not smart.
‘My team and I know what we’re doing daily to enable me to play so I’m actually very pleased with the way I’m moving on the court considering that it’s under three weeks from the surgery.
‘I really will play only if I really know that I’m in a state which is good enough to go far in the tournament and fight for the title.’
Djokovic isn’t the only player in a race against time to be fit for next week. Andy Murray underwent surgery on a spinal cyst on Saturday but is still hoping to play at what looks set to be his final Wimbledon before retiring.
‘Oh wow,’ said Djokovic when he learned of Murray’s ambition to play. ‘I really hope so. I hope for his sake and also for Wimbledon.
‘We all know what Andy Murray has done here and what he means for this country, this city and this tournament. It might be his last so I’m sure he’s going to give his best.’
