**Novak Djokovic’s Physio Undergoes Emergency Surgery at 2025 French Open, Star Expresses Concern**
Novak Djokovic revealed a distressing situation at the 2025 French Open on May 29, 2025, announcing that his long-time friend and part-time physiotherapist, Miljan Amanovic, underwent emergency surgery due to a serious medical issue, possibly a heart condition. The world No. 6, who advanced to the third round with a 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1) win over Corentin Moutet, expressed deep concern for Amanovic’s health, refusing to disclose specific details out of respect for his privacy. This personal setback, coupled with Djokovic’s own toe blister requiring injections, cast a shadow over his Roland Garros campaign.
**Emergency Surgery for Miljan Amanovic**
During the Serbian portion of his post-match press conference, Djokovic shared the alarming news about Amanovic, who has worked with him for over 17 years. “Unfortunately, Miljan is in the hospital. He had a serious situation today and underwent surgery,” Djokovic said, as reported by Serbian journalist Sasa Ozmo on X. “We’re all very concerned. He’s currently stable, but the situation isn’t ideal. He’ll have to stay in the hospital for a few days.” Djokovic noted that Gebhard Phil-Gritsch, his fitness coach, was with Amanovic, but he declined to elaborate further, stating, “I wouldn’t want to go into more detail than that.” Posts on X, including @Awax92’s, echoed Djokovic’s concern, noting Amanovic’s stable condition post-surgery. The exact nature of the emergency, speculated to involve a heart issue based on Amanovic’s 2018 heart attack from travel stress, remained unconfirmed.
**Djokovic’s On-Court Challenges**
Djokovic’s third-round victory over Moutet was not without its own drama. He required a medical timeout in the third set for a blister on his left big toe, necessitating injections post-match to manage pain, as reported by The Washington Post. “The clay takes a toll, and the blister was killing me out there,” he told reporters, adding, “I’ll get some tests, some treatments.” Despite saving a set point at 5-6 in the third and dominating the tiebreak, Djokovic’s 45 winners and 101.50 average showcased his resilience, though 29 unforced errors reflected physical strain. His apology for gesturing at the pro-Moutet crowd further highlighted the match’s intensity.
**Amanovic’s Role and Djokovic’s Team**
Amanovic, Djokovic’s full-time physio from 2007 to 2017, now works part-time alongside full-time physio Claudio Zimaglia, also managing duties at the Novak Tennis Center in Belgrade. His 2018 heart attack, linked to the stress of constant travel, led to a temporary split, but Djokovic rehired him alongside coach Marian Vajda. The emergency surgery adds uncertainty to Djokovic’s support system, critical as he pursues a record 25th Grand Slam title. His next match against Filip Misolic on May 31, 2025, will test his focus amid personal and physical challenges.
**Djokovic’s 2025 Struggles**
Djokovic’s season has been turbulent, with a 16-7 record, first-round exits in Doha and Indian Wells, and a retirement in the Australian Open semi-final due to a hamstring injury. His 100th ATP title in Geneva provided momentum, but clay losses to Alejandro Tabilo and Matteo Arnaldi exposed vulnerabilities. The physio crisis, alongside his toe issue, compounds concerns, especially with a projected tough draw including Alexander Zverev, Jannik Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz.
**Parallels in Sports**
Djokovic’s concern for Amanovic mirrors Katie Boulter’s support for Alex de Minaur post-French Open loss and Luke Littler’s resilience after objects were thrown at him before his Premier League Darts final defeat to Humphries. Like Fallon Sherrock’s health-driven break, Gerwyn Price’s crowd defiance, and Zverev’s watch wager, Djokovic’s resolve amid adversity—personal and physical—defines his campaign.
**Conclusion**
Novak Djokovic’s physio, Miljan Amanovic, underwent emergency surgery during the 2025 French Open on May 29, 2025, leaving the “concerned” star guarded about details. Djokovic, who needed injections for a toe blister after beating Moutet 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1), faces Filip Misolic next. His 16-7 season, like Boulter, Littler, Sherrock, Price, and Zverev’s challenges, tests his grit. Watch live on TNT Sports.
