Hubert Hurkacz returns to the tour this week after a short hiatus that followed a knee injury he sustained during his Wimbledon campaign. He was forced to forego the Olympic Games in Paris as he felt he was in no condition to compete.
However, the World No. 6 from Poland said he closely followed the tournament and was inspired by what Novak Djokovic achieved. The Serbian clinched gold by beating Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets in the final. He also said that Djokovic was very supportive during his recent injury recovery.
I knew I couldn’t really move on the court, so the Olympics were unfortunately out of the question. I dreamed of playing there all year, but I knew it just wasn’t going to be possible. The injuries still weren’t healed. I just couldn’t go. It was too risky. But I saw what Novak did, and it’s really inspiring, especially the gold medal he won. I also sent him a message. He was really supportive and helped me when I was injured.
Hubert Hurkacz told ATP
During his second-round match against Arthur Fils in this year’s Wimbledon, Hurkacz suffered a fall and was unable to continue and was forced to retire. Meanwhile, Djokovic, who reached the final at the same tournament, completed his career Golden Slam.
Hubert Hurkacz takes on Thanasi Kokkinakis in his first match after recovery
As one of the dark horses and even a favorite to win the title at Wimbledon, it was heartbreaking for Hubert Hurkacz to retire mid-match in just the second round. To add insult to injury, he also missed the chance to represent Poland at the Olympics. Fans were left wondering if he would be able to play again this season.
The Polish No. 1 however stuck to his recovery routine and is back to his best shape, taking to the courts of Montreal at the Canadian Open. He will take on a tricky opponent in Australia’s Thanasi Kokkinakis in the first round on Friday (August 9).
Hurkacz is seeded fourth, behind Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, and Daniil Medvedev, in that order. The main draw matches of the tournament kicked off on Monday and will conclude on Sunday.
In case you missed it!