Novak Djokovic has revealed he will only play at Wimbledon if he feels he can “fight for the title” as he recovers from knee surgery.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion and seven-time Wimbledon winner underwent surgery on June 6 after being eliminated in the quarterfinals at the French Open with a torn medial meniscus in his right knee.
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Annabelle Croft assesses what Djokovic's exit from the French Open will mean for the rest of the season.
The 37-year-old is yet to fully confirm his return for his third Slam of the season, but arrived at the All England Club on Sunday and trained on the court on Monday.
“I’m not here to play a few rounds,” Djokovic said. BBC. “If I know I can play at or near my max, I will play. If not, I'll give someone else a chance to play.
“Rehab is moving in the right direction every day. It's getting better by percentages. That's what gives me hope and encouragement to keep going.
“We're taking it step by step. We can't go 100% yet, but we expect to get there in the next few days.”
“I will only go into the fight knowing I am in good enough shape to really get into the tournament and fight for the title,” he said, adding: “That is the condition.”
Wimbledon runs from July 1 to 14, with the men's and women's singles draws taking place on Friday, June 28.
Carlos Alcaraz won his second of three Grand Slam titles by defeating Djokovic in the Wimbledon final last year.
If he plays, it will be Djokovic's 19th Wimbledon appearance, and the world number two is aiming to end his title drought in 2024.
The Serb won three of the four Grand Slams last year, with his only loss coming in the SW19 final where he lost to Carlos Alcaraz in five sets.
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