Wimbledon 2024: Why an easier route to final could prove to be double-edged sword for Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic has dropped two sets so far at Wimbledon 2024.

Novak Djokovic received a ­walkover in his 15th Wimbledon quarter Final after Australia’s Alex de Minaur was forced to withdraw on finding out that he had torn a cartilage in his hip. The Former World Number #1 will play his 13th Wimbledon semi-final as he looks to seal his 25th Grand Slam.

However, many narratives have surrounded the Serb, with some questioning Djokovic’s draw and alleging that Wimbledon 2024 has been generous by giving him favorable draws, resulting in an easy road to the finals.

If one examines the match structures, it becomes clear that the typical sequence of the first seed playing the fourth and the second seed playing the third has not been strictly followed.

This adjustment seems to be made to potentially allow for a rematch of the 2023 Wimbledon final between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, aimed at boosting the TRP ratings, which is understandable.

Djokovic, seeded second, competed against unranked opponents in all his initial rounds and then encountered a rusty Holger Rune in the fourth round, before being handed a walkover by de Minaur.

In comparison to his title rivals, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic has indeed had a much easier draw, having not faced a single top 10-ranked player in the tournament so far and only potentially facing one in the finals (if he gets there).

Meanwhile, Alcaraz faced Frances Tiafoe in the third round, 16th seed Ugo Humbert in round four and 12th seed Tommy Paul in the quarterfinals.

Similarly, the World Number #1 and top seed, Sinner, had to work his way through 2021 Wimbledon winner, Matteo Berrettini in round two, 14th seed Ben Shelton in round four and fifth seed Daniil Medvedev in the quarter finals which ultimately resulted in his elimination.

Having an easy route to the semis can have it’s own share of pros and cons. A player for whom waging long battles is a massive department of strength, the importance of resting can’t be understated.

Also Read: ‘Absolute joke,’ ‘cakewalk’ – Fans fume as Novak Djokovic gets easy draw to 2024 Wimbledon semi-finals

A couple of day-offs will also help Djokovic rejuvenate and be fresh for the Lorenzo Musetti Challenge. He will also have a little extra time to celebrate his 10th Wedding Anniversary with his wife, Jelena Djokovic.

However, like any other player, playing competitive matches and getting tested is crucial as it helps you prepare mentally for more challenging and pressure match-situations in the future.

Novak Djokovic himself would have loved to play against the tour’s most improved player- Alex de Minaur, which would have served as an ideal preparation as he looks to win his eighth Wimbledon title.

Moreover, the 37-year-old is yet to win a Grand Slam in which he has received a walkover, having been beaten by Roger Federer at the 2011 French Open and by Stan Wawrinka at the 2016 US Open.

Whether spending the least amount of time on court amongst all other semifinalists will prove to be a boon or curse will be answered only in due time. Novak Djokovic will now take on Musetti on Friday in what will be an action-packed match in front of a highly energetic and vocal crowd.

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