Novak Djokovic Provides Injury Update After Getting ‘Green Light’ for Return
Novak Djokovic has delivered a promising update on his recovery, just weeks after a muscle injury forced him to withdraw from the Australian Open semi-finals.
The world No. 7 ruptured a thigh muscle during his quarter-final victory over Carlos Alcaraz, ultimately retiring against Alexander Zverev in the next round. He later confirmed the extent of the injury via MRI and was sidelined for Serbia’s Davis Cup tie.
Now, Djokovic has confirmed he is “almost 100 per cent” fit and has received medical clearance to return to competition at next week’s Qatar Open.
“There is no more rupture in the muscle, the injury is almost 100 per cent repaired, and I am ready to go for new victories,” he told Vijesti. “I have the green light from the medical team that I can train and prepare. The tournament in Doha starts in seven days, so I’m sticking to the schedule. Thank God, I was able to recover quickly.”
At 37, Djokovic acknowledges that injuries have become more frequent but remains confident in his body’s resilience.
“I’ve had more injuries lately than in the first 15 years of my career,” he admitted. “This probably comes with age, but my body still listens to me. I still have a burning flame and a desire to achieve new things.”
One of those goals is reaching a major career milestone—winning his 100th ATP title. The 24-time Grand Slam champion secured title No. 99 at the Olympics last summer and has been in pursuit of the century mark ever since.
Djokovic came close at the Shanghai Masters last October and had high hopes for Melbourne before his injury setback. Now, he is targeting the milestone at the upcoming ATP 500 event in Doha.
“I hope the 100th trophy can come in Doha,” he added. “I’ve been chasing it for a long time, since October last year, but it will come when it should.”
The Qatar Open begins on February 17 and features a strong field, including world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, and Daniil Medvedev. Djokovic will be eager to make his mark and resume his hunt for tennis history.
