Novak Djokovic makes Andy Murray plea with classy message after Wimbledon victory
Novak Djokovic wants Andy Murray back at Wimbledon next year
REUTERS
Novak Djokovic wants to see Andy Murray try and come back to play in the singles at Wimbledon next year after the British sports icon withdrew from his scheduled match with Tomas Machac.
The Serbian got up and running at Wimbledon with an extremely comfortable victory over the Czech qualifier in a match that took just two hours.
There was originally some questions on Djokovic's fitness after he underwent knee surgery just three weeks ago.
But he put those doubts to bed with a strong performance on Centre Court to progress to the second round.
Novak Djokovic wants Andy Murray back at Wimbledon next year
REUTERS
Murray was originally set to play after Djokovic on Wimbledon's biggest stage, but he withdrew from the singles as he didn't feel confident enough to compete against Tomas Machac.
The former world No 1 underwent surgery on his back just last week and has been fighting to get back to full fitness at SW19.
Djokovic used his post-match on-court interview to deliver a classy message to his old rival, even though he found it difficult to relate.
"I've been fortunate probably comparing myself to other 37 year old in our sport or other sports to be able to play at the highest level for so many years," he said.
"I think Nick Kyrgios is in the commentary box right here who has been struggling a lot with injuries so talking about major injuries, he has had quite a few.
"I've been very fortunate to not be away from the tennis for so long.
"As an athlete I emphasise with Nick and anybody who has been struggling. It's tough. You almost feel helpless at times that something is not allowing you to come back to what you love the most.
"There's been quite a few examples obviously like Andy Murray withdrawing, which is a great blow to the tournament.
Andy Murray is set to play doubles with his brother Jamie
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"It's unfortunate really, greatest respect to him for all he has done at this tournament and this sport [applause].
"I just hope he will be able to finish his career on his terms.
"I heard he's going to play doubles, hopefully he's going to give it another shot next year in the singles.
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Novak Djokovic was playing his first competitive match since undergoing surgery
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"I just send him my best and anybody else out there struggling with injuries. It's hard for me to talk about hard injuries, I came back after three and a half weeks after surgery but I think it's worth acknowledging all these athletes that are struggling."
Murray has confirmed that he will still play in the men's doubles draw, where he will join up with brother Jamie.
The draw is set to get underway on Thursday with the Murray brothers facing Australian duo Rinky Hijikata and John Peers.