Winner of the Australian Open after having notably eliminated Roger Federer in three sets in the semi-final, the world No 1 Novak Djokovic is back in business in Dubai. He met this Monday the Tunisian Malek Jaziri (ATP 260) at the height of the 16th finals, for his entry in the tournament stamped ATP 500 and endowed with 2.8 million dollars.
The Serbian player took advantage of his pre-tournament press conference to say how sad he had been to learn of Federer’s operation and his long absence (until June at least).
“To be honest, it was a big surprise for me (to learn that), said Djokovic. It was well known that he had suffered an injury since the Australian Open, but no one knew exactly what was wrong and how serious his injury was. I don’t like to see someone have an operation. I lived it and I hope not to have to suffer from it more. For doctors, it is a routine. But for us, it’s quite invasive. It can even generate psychological trauma. ”
And, returning to Federer, with whom he associates the South African Kevin Anderson, also operated on his right knee last Wednesday: “I am really sad to see Roger and Kevin having to go through this type of procedure. So, I hope they will both be back soon. But Federer is Federer. He has to come back. Tennis needs him. ”
Sport-Center
Created: 24.02.2020, 4:10 p.m.
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