![Novak Djokovic](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.sportico.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GettyImages-2155922208-e1717521529985.jpg?w=1280&h=721&crop=1)
Novak Djokovic withdrew from the French Open ahead of his quarterfinal match against Casper Ruud after suffering a knee injury on Monday. With Djokovic out, a new men’s champion will be crowned at Roland Garros on Sunday, and a new No. 1-ranked men’s player in the world will be named next week.
Djokovic hurt his knee during his five-set win in the round of 16 over Argentinian Francisco Cerundolo. An MRI scan revealed that the 37-year-old suffered a “torn medial meniscus” of his right knee, according to a statement from Roland Garros.
“My team and I had to make a tough decision after careful consideration and consultation,” Djokovic posted on Instagram. “I wish the best of luck to the players competing this week and sincerely thank the incredible fans for all of the love and continued support.”
Djokovic won the 2023 French Open for his 23rd Grand Slam victory, breaking a tie with Rafael Nadal for the most ever slam wins among men. He became the first man to win all four majors at least three times, and at 36 last year, he became the oldest men’s singles champion in the history of the event. He went on to win the U.S. Open to top Serena Williams (23) for most slams across genders during the Open Era, which started in 1968. (Margaret Court has 24 Grand Slam wins, many of which came before the Open Era.)
The injury threatens Djokovic's participation at Wimbledon, which starts on July 1, as well as the Paris Olympics, which start in late July.
The withdrawal means the 2024 French Open will have a winner outside tennis’ Big Three—Djokovic, Nadal and Roger Federer—who have captured 66 Slam titles and $448 million in career prize money during their careers. By comparison, the rest of the ATP Tour field has just 15 Grand Slam wins since Federer captured his second slam win at the 2004 Australian Open. Nadal lost his first round match this year at Roland Garros, where he has won 14 times.
Djokovic has earned $182 million in prize money during his two-decade pro career, $47 million more than Nadal, who ranks second overall among tennis players. Djokovic has also pocketed more than $350 million from sponsors and appearance fees; as one of the biggest draws in the sport, he commands more than seven figures to show up at an event. His endorsement partners include Lacoste, Head, Asics, Waterdrop, Sila, Hublot and Raiffeisen Bank.
His inflation-adjusted career earnings of $650 million ranks No. 33 among athletes across all sports.