When Novak Djokovic revealed that he had undergone knee surgery on 5 June after sustaining a meniscus tear at Roland Garros, most of the players heading to Wimbledon probably breathed a sigh of relief; here, surely, was a chance for them to make a big run without worrying about meeting the seven-time champion. When they saw him turn up for practice with a brace on his right knee, perhaps they thought, good on him, he’s giving it a go but will not be competitive so soon after an operation. They – and everyone else – should have known better.
Just five weeks after his injury, and at the age of 37, Djokovic is into a 10th Wimbledon final and a record 37th grand slam final. His 6-4, 7-6 (2), 6-4 win over a valiant, Lorenzo Musetti of Italy sets up a repeat of last year’s final with Carlos Alcaraz, a chance for revenge, an opportunity to equal Roger Federer with an eighth Wimbledon win and to move clear on his own at the top of the all-time major list male or female – with 25. The numbers are simply staggering.
