Serious doubts on the hamstring saga of Novak Djokovic are gaining traction, with former No. 1 Juan Carlos Ferrero adding his name to the list of doubters.
The coach of Carlos Alcaraz said that he finds it tough to believe that the Serb could have won his 10th Australian Open while carrying a 3-cm tear in the muscle.
Djokovic, due to resume on court next week in Dubai, tried to somehow clear up the controversy this week in Belgrade, but provided zero detail and no medical documentation on his condition.
He merely said he is now fine; pleas of injury combined with miracle wins in Melbourne all the way to the trophy have many unconvinced that the 35-year-old was actually hurt.
Former Roland Garros champion Ferrero is among them: “I am not going to call Djokovic a liar, but I will only say that I find it difficult,” the Spaniard said.
“I see it as difficult (that) Djokovic would move as he did. Obviously if he has the ability to withstand brutal pain – which may be – good for him and he deserved to win.”
In Belgrade, Djokovic tried to duck the growing suspicion over his condition.
“I really do not have the time, energy, or will to deal with every story that appears on the internet, or what someone says about something.”
.“I know what is right and what is true.”
Djokovic has long been backed up in the saga by Australian Open boss Craig Tiley, whose organisation had been desperate to get the anti-vaxxer over the Australian border last month in order to play the major.
Djokovic was deported from the country in January, 2022, after trying to enter without COVID jabs – which he has categorically refused to ever take.
Main photo:- Australian Open 2023 Novak Djokovic at full stretch in semi-final whilst carrying thigh injury – Photo Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
