Novak Djokovic didn't have knee surgery? No chance says former coach Nikola Pilic after conspiracy theories fly
ATP
Suggestions that Novak Djokovic did not undergo knee surgery have been rubbished by his former coach, Nikola Pilic after he returned mere weeks after tearing his meniscus in his knee.
Djokovic was even a doubt for many for the Olympic Games no mind Wimbledon. But he played both after going down against Francisco Cerundolo at Roland Garros. He reached the final of Wimbledon and won the Olympic gold medal.
He is currently not due back now until the US Open as he has snubbed playing Cincinnati and Canada. But Pilic said that he was slower than normal showing that it happened. He also added that he wouldn't be able to compete without the surgery.
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“Yes. He definitely had problems at Roland Garros. For example, I could see that one leg was softer than the other,” the Croatian explained to Tennis Magazin.
“Fortunately, he had all the doctors he trusts around him in Paris. He then had this operation and his knee got much better.
“He is certainly a little slower than normal, but without this small operation, he would not have been able to continue. Novak worked on this leg from morning to night to get fit again. That’s why I’m very happy that he won the gold medal.”
But he also saw Djokovic's gold medal win as not a surprise. He said that knowing it was his final chance spurred on his attitude. One that Pilic claims to know better than anyone else.
“No, [I was not surprised Djokovic won the gold medal],” said the 84-year-old. “I was interviewed by some Serbian media before the final and I was one of the few who said that Novak had a good chance of winning gold.
“Provided he found his rhythm and played in sixth gear. Nobody said that beforehand. Most media said that it would be a mere formality for Alcaraz. Also because Novak played very badly in the Wimbledon final, while Alcaraz played very well and that’s why he won clearly with 6-2, 6-2 and 7-6.
“I know Novak better than anyone else. I believed that he had a good chance. His attitude was outstanding because he knew it was his last chance.”
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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