Novak Djokovic underwent what he termed was a “small medical intervention” on his troublesome elbow recently.
Djokovic has been bothered by his elbow for two years and took six months off last year to rest it, hoping that would resolve his issues. However, he still felt pain while competing in the Australian Open last month and decided to undergo some “intervention” as he termed it.
Here’s the message Djokovic shared on Instagram Friday explaining what happened:
“Hey guys, I owe you some news about my recovery. I’ve been carrying this injury for the past two years, and during this time I’ve been seeing many doctors,” Djokovic wrote on Instagram. “Truth be told, there were many different opinions, different diagnoses, different suggestions… It was not easy for me to choose which way to go and what to do. I took 6 months off last season hoping to come back fully recovered, but unfortunately I still felt pain. I really missed competing, it’s in my blood and I had to give it a try on AO. Anyhow, I agreed with my team that I would try different methods after I finish in Australia and a few days ago I accepted to do a small medical intervention on my elbow. It seems like I am on the good road now to full recovery. It’s quite a journey this one, I have to say. I’m learning a lot and for that I’m grateful. I’ve always taken care of my body and looked for the most natural ways to heal, and my body has rewarded me with some incredible years on tour. I am super positive and excited to follow my recovery through so I can come back to the place I love the most. The court. I’ll keep you posted and thanks for cheering me on!”
Djokovic’s status for the upcoming months is unclear. He was eliminated in the fourth round of the Australian Open, which has been his best major throughout his career. Last year he bowed out in Melbourne in the second round, marking his worst finish at a grand slam event since 2008. Getting his elbow repaired will be critical to him regaining his spot atop the men’s tennis rankings.
