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Novak Djokovic, the World No. 1 ranked player, continued his quest for the record breaking 24th Grand Slam as he cruised past Argentina’s Francisco Cernundolo in Round of 16 clash on June 3 at the Philippe Chatrier Court. The Serbian legend continued his dominant run despite injury struggles as he defeated the Argentine 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3.
During the fifth and final set of the match, which almost lasted for over four hours, saw the Serb bring in the plane celebration as he neared 4-3 lead in the final set at the centre court on Monday, June 3. The 37-year-old lie flat on the ground with his hands and legs stretched outwards as he brought in the special celebration.
Watch Novak Djokovic’s plane celebration here:
Furthermore, with his RO16 win, the Serb surpassed Roger Federer, one of the greats of the game, registering most win in men’s singles history. It was not only his 370th Grand Slam match win, but also ensured his 59th Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance, setting another benchmark record.
Will I be able to play next one?: Novak Djokovic unsure on his QF appearance
As Novak Djokovic continues his title defence at the clay-court event in Paris, the 37-year-old was seen struggling with a knee injury. The top-seeded even required medications to complete the five-set match, casting doubt over his participation in the quarterfinal match, where he is set to face Casper Ruud.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Novak Djokovic said, “At one point I didn’t know whether I should continue or not with what’s happening. I got the medications and then, after the third set was done, I asked for more medications and got them.”
“Today I injured myself. I survived. I won the match. Great. But will I be able to play next one? I don’t know. I don’t know the severity of the injury. But could have this injury be prevented? Possibly, if there was just a little bit more of frequent care of the court during the set,” he added.
