Novak Djokovic Withdraws from French Open Due to Injury

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the French Open after suffering a torn medial meniscus in his right knee. The Serbian tennis star was set to play Casper Ruud in the quarterfinal on Wednesday but has been forced to pull out due to the injury.

Novak Djokovic's quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as he was forced to withdraw from the French Open due to a torn medial meniscus in his right knee.

Tournament officials confirmed the news, stating that an MRI scan had revealed the injury. Djokovic was set to face Casper Ruud in the quarterfinal on Wednesday, but will now have to watch from the sidelines.

The injury is a major blow to Djokovic's hopes of winning his second consecutive French Open title. He was one of the favorites to lift the trophy in Paris, but his withdrawal leaves the tournament wide open.

Djokovic had battled through two grueling five-set victories in the tournament, overcoming Francisco Cerundolo and Lorenzo Musetti. However, it was during the marathon match against Musetti that the injury is believed to have occurred.

The match against Musetti ended at 3:07 a.m. local time at Roland-Garros, leaving both players exhausted. U.S. tennis star Coco Gauff criticized the late finish, saying it was "not healthy."

It is unclear whether the late night match was the cause of the meniscus tear, but it is a possibility. Djokovic had been experiencing some discomfort in his knee during the tournament.

Djokovic's withdrawal is a huge disappointment for the fans, who were eagerly anticipating his quarterfinal clash with Ruud. The Serbian star had a chance to move within one Grand Slam title of Rafael Nadal's record, but will now have to wait for another opportunity.

Djokovic's absence from the French Open will also open up the tournament for other players. Ruud, who defeated him in last year's final, will now be considered the favorite. Nadal, who is also chasing his 25th Grand Slam title, will also be a contender.

The French Open will continue without Djokovic, but his absence will be a major talking point. The tournament will be poorer without one of the greatest players of all time, but it will also provide an opportunity for others to shine.