SAD NEWS: Jelena Djokovic Breaks Down After Novak’s Injury Forces Him Out of Cincinnati Open — But Their Love Story Touches Millions

Belgrade, Serbia — The tennis world was shaken this week when news broke that Novak Djokovic will miss the upcoming Cincinnati Open due to a serious injury sustained during his Wimbledon semifinal match against Italy’s Jannik Sinner. The withdrawal sparked an outpouring of concern from fans, but it was Jelena Djokovic’s tearful statement outside a Belgrade hospital that truly moved millions.

A Wimbledon Blow That Changed Summer Plans

Novak’s semifinal against Sinner had been expected to be a thrilling battle. But mid-match, viewers noticed something was wrong — the usually agile champion began to grimace with every movement, his serve speed dropped, and his footwork seemed labored. Medical timeouts failed to resolve the issue, and though he pushed through to finish the match, the toll was evident.

Days later, doctors confirmed the injury was serious enough to require rest and specialized therapy, forcing Novak to skip Cincinnati — a tournament many considered a key warm-up for the US Open.

Jelena’s Emotional Words

Shortly after Novak’s hospital visit for treatment and assessment, Jelena appeared outside, wearing sunglasses but unable to hide her red eyes. Her voice shook as she spoke to the gathered reporters.

“It has been a very challenging time for us,” she said. “Seeing him in pain, knowing how much he loves this sport and how hard he works for every match… it’s heartbreaking. But even now, when he should be focusing on his recovery, he’s still there for me whenever I need him. That’s the kind of husband he is — always putting others first.”

She paused, fighting back tears. “We’ve been through so many highs and lows in this journey together, but our love and respect carry us forward. No matter the challenges, we face them side by side.”

Fans React With Admiration

Her comments struck a chord. Within hours, clips of Jelena’s speech spread across social media. Fans from around the globe praised their relationship, calling it “a love story as inspiring as Novak’s career.”

One Instagram user wrote:

“Novak may be the champion on the court, but Jelena is the champion of his heart. The way they support each other is rare and beautiful.”

Another fan tweeted:

“Their love is stronger than any trophy. That’s why Novak always comes back stronger — he has Jelena by his side.”

Eyes on the US Open and Olympics

Despite the injury setback, Novak has already begun a rehabilitation program under the guidance of his medical team. Sources close to the Djokovic camp confirmed that his focus is now split between getting healthy for the US Open and representing Serbia at the Paris Olympics.

Coach Goran Ivanišević commented:

“Novak knows when to push and when to step back. Right now, the goal is to heal fully. The US Open and Olympics are his priorities, and I have no doubt he will be ready.”

A Relationship Built on Resilience

Novak and Jelena’s story began long before Grand Slam victories and international fame. Meeting as teenagers in Serbia, they navigated years of long-distance challenges before marrying in 2014. Throughout Novak’s career — through injuries, controversial moments, and triumphs — Jelena has remained a constant, both as his life partner and as a driving force behind his mental and emotional balance.

Turning Sadness Into Inspiration

While Novak’s absence from Cincinnati is a blow to fans and the tournament itself, the moment has also reminded people that behind every world-class athlete is a personal life filled with struggles, love, and resilience.

Jelena’s emotional honesty has not only drawn admiration but has also strengthened the bond between Novak and his supporters. Many have said they will be watching the US Open not only to see if Novak can claim another title, but to witness the next chapter of a journey defined as much by love as by athletic greatness.

As Jelena concluded her brief but moving statement, she left the world with one final thought:

“Tennis is important to us — but family is everything.”

And in that moment, fans understood that while Novak may be healing his body, the heart of this story is a love that no injury can stop.