Novak Djokovic’s Wimbledon prospects still uncertain

Wimbledon is only days away, with the year’s third Grand Slam beginning on Monday, yet the participation of seven-time champion Novak Djokovic is still unsure.

Djokovic failed to finish his French Open campaign earlier this month after picking up a knee injury in the round of 16.

The Serbian superstar had to undergo meniscus surgery earlier this month, which cast a shadow of doubt over his Wimbledon prospects.

It was initially feared that Djokovic would not recover in time to chase his eighth title at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, but the 37-year-old refuses to rule out the possibility just yet.

With the tournament’s draw being announced on Friday in London, what will happen to Wimbledon betting odds if the 24-time Grand Slam champion withdraws?

Djokovic keeps tennis world guessing

Djokovic made the trip to Wimbledon earlier this week and has been posting training clips on Instagram.

However, the world No.2 is still unsure whether he will be ready in time to grace the All England courts next month.

“I haven’t decided yet if I will play Wimbledon,” Djokovic told reporters as he attended Serbia’s Euro 2024 match against Denmark in Munich.

“I will decide in the next few days.

“Thank goodness the recovery is going surprisingly well.”

Earlier, he had declared that he would only compete if he felt capable of winning the title in London.

“I didn’t come here to play a few rounds,” the Serbian said.

Encouraging signs emerged on Thursday, when Djokovic practised against world No.1 Jannik Sinner. The pair had a two-hour session, with Djokovic appearing to move fluently.

Following the hit, when asked by reporters if he’d be participating this year, the 37-year-old gave a thumbs up.

How Wimbledon odds will shift if Djokovic withdraws

Djokovic is the third favourite to win Wimbledon this year.

Tennis bookmakers have the record Grand Slam winner at +400 to go all the way, trailing defending champion Carlos Alcaraz (+162) and Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner (+175) in the title race.

If Djokovic withdraws, the outright odds for Alcaraz and Sinner could shorten to around +150 apiece.

Should that happen, Alexander Zverev would occupy the third line of Wimbledon betting. The German is paying +1400 with Marantelli Bet, but that price could drop to +1100 if Djokovic chooses not to compete.

Also, Daniil Medvedev and Hubert Hurkacz, who round out the top five in the outright market, would likely move from +1600 into +1400.

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