“One of the Most Unfortunate Players”: Novak Djokovic Has Sympathy For Juan Martin Del Potro

World No.1 Novak Djokovic cruised through to the semifinals of the Western and Southern Open 2020. Djokovic defeated Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff 6-3, 6-1, and wrapped up the match in 62 minutes.

During the post-match conference, the Serbian was asked about Juan Martin del Potro who underwent his third knee surgery. The duo has played each other 20 times over the course of their careers.

“I love him and that I support him and I send him my best wishes. I don’t know what more I can say, he’s probably one of the most unfortunate tennis players that I’ve known with injuries,” said Djokovic of his friend Del Potro.

Djokovic last played against the Argentine in a thrilling match in the quarterfinals of the Italian Open 2019. They clashed in the finals of the US Open 2018, where Djokovic defeated the 2009 US Open champion in straight sets.

“The quality of tennis that he possesses and with that much time he’s played in his career, he already has an amazing career. It’s really unfortunate to see him struggle so much,” said Novak, appreciating Potro’s exceptional talent.

Potro’s career plagued with injuries

Juan Martin del Potro became a sensation when he defeated Roger Federer in a five-set epic to win the US Open 2009. The Argentine was the first player to win against Federer and Nadal at the same major. But his career has been hampered by successive wrist and knee injuries which have taken a toll on his body.

Potro’s injury woes started back in 2010 when he underwent a right wrist operation followed up with three operations on his left wrist in the following years. Despite persistent problems in his knee, Juan Martin achieved a career-high ranking of No. 3 in 2018. The Argentine last injured his knee at the 2019 Fever Tennis Championships and continuous problems forced him to pull out of this year’s Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic eyeing 2nd title at Western & Southern Open

Djokovic will face Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut in the seminal of the Western & Southern Open after Agut ousted Daniil Medvedev in the quarters. The Serbian took his unbeaten streak to 21-0 this year. He will hope to win his second title at this event.