Photo: Getty Images

Novak Djokovic faced a challenging second-round match against Scotland's Jacob Fearnley, needing to dig deep to secure a four-set victory. Despite the win, questions about Djokovic's knee injury linger.

Djokovic Breezes Through First Round

In the first round, Djokovic dispatched Czech player Vit Kopriva in just one hour and 58 minutes. The Serbian star showed his usual dominance, setting the stage for what many expected to be a straightforward tournament.

Fearnley Puts Up a Fight

However, the second round proved to be a different story. Jacob Fearnley, a 22-year-old newcomer ranked 277th in the world, managed to take a set off the seven-time Grand Slam champion. Djokovic eventually triumphed in four sets: 6-3, 6-4, 5-7, and 7-5, in a match lasting three hours. The encounter was far from easy, with Djokovic occasionally clashing with his coaching team and even engaging with a vocal fan.

Knee Injury: A Cause for Concern?

Djokovic's knee, recently operated on for a meniscal tear, was a focal point of post-match discussions.

"Today I felt no pain, which is fantastic. My knee responded very well during the rest days. I've had no swelling or inflammation, which is great."

Despite this positive update, Djokovic admitted that his muscles were compensating for the knee, leading to increased soreness. He also noted issues with his movement, describing it as a work in progress.

"The muscles around my knee are working harder, which is normal. Maybe because of that, I don't have the dynamic speed and power I need and want. Movement is not perfect, but it's something I can work on. The important thing is there's no pain."

What Lies Ahead?

As Djokovic progresses in the tournament, his knee's condition will be closely monitored. The Serbian star's experience and resilience are undeniable, but the physical demands of the sport may test his limits. With a long road ahead, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Djokovic can maintain his form and achieve another Grand Slam title.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova