12-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has revealed he had treatment on his troublesome elbow in a desperate attempt to get rid of the long-term injury, which has bothered him for more than two years.
Djokovic spent six months out of action last year before making his much anticipated comeback to the tour in January, participating in the Australian Open in Melbourne. However, the pain in his elbow came back to haunt him in his fourth round encounter with a 21-year-old Hyeon Chung as he lost to the South Korean in straight sets.
Earlier, the Serbian was forced to pull out of the Mubadala World Tennis Championships, an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi and the Qatar Open due to the same problem.
And the 30-year-old disclosed on social media that he underwent a ‘small medical intervention’ on the persistent elbow injury.
“Hey guys, I owe you some news about my recovery,” the former World No. 1 wrote in a post on Instagram.
“I’ve been carrying this injury for the past two years, and during this time I’ve been seeing many doctors.
“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 six 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 at the Australian Open.
“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!”
