Novak Djokovic Still Struggling to Convince Fans After Injury Conspiracy Theories

Novak Djokovic Still Struggling to Convince Fans After Injury Conspiracy Theories

Novak Djokovic was forced to withdraw from his Australian Open semifinal against Alexander Zverev due to a torn thigh muscle. However, not everyone is convinced.

Djokovic’s injury has sparked controversy among fans. In the quarterfinal against Carlos Alcaraz, he requested a medical timeout off-court before returning and winning the match. But in the semifinal, after losing the first set, he suddenly withdrew.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion later took to social media to hit back at “experts” accusing him of faking the injury, but skepticism remains.

Doubts from Fans and Experts

Speculation arose when Djokovic left the court for treatment during the first set against Alcaraz, returning with a tight bandage around his thigh. He quickly lost the opening set but continued playing, visibly grimacing in pain.

Commentator John McEnroe was among those questioning Djokovic’s injury, suggesting he might have exaggerated the situation.

“This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this pattern. Don’t be fooled,” McEnroe remarked.

Even Alcaraz expressed doubt, stating: “A player considering retirement wouldn’t be able to play the third and fourth sets the way he did.”

Semifinal Against Zverev and Ongoing Speculation

Three days later, Djokovic faced Zverev in the semifinal but withdrew after an 81-minute first set. Some spectators booed as he left the court.

To silence speculation that he was faking the injury, Djokovic posted an MRI scan showing a torn thigh muscle, along with a tweet:

“I think I’ll just leave this here for all the ‘sports injury experts’ out there.”

However, the debate is far from over. A poll by Express Sport revealed a near-even split in public opinion:

• 49% believe Djokovic faked the injury
• 51% support him