Defending champion Djokovic, who also loses first place in the world rankings to Jannik Sinner from Italy due to his withdrawal, suffered a torn meniscus during his five-set marathon against Argentinian Francisco Cerundolo, according to official information. The injury also jeopardizes Djokovic’s participation in the All England Championships in Wimbledon (from July 1).
“I gave it my all in my match yesterday. Unfortunately, my team and I had to make a difficult decision after careful consideration due to a torn meniscus in my right knee,” explained the Serb.
Sinner learned of his historic moment after his round of 16 match against Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, which he won convincingly 6:2, 6:4, 7:6 (7:3). The 22-year-old South Tyrolean is the first tennis professional from Italy to be ranked number one. “It is every player’s dream to be number one,” said the Australian Open winner, visibly moved by the applause of the audience on Court Philipp-Chatrier, but also stressed: “It is a shame for all of us that Novak has withdrawn.”
In the semifinals, Sinner will face Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas.