Djokovic Plays Through the Pain Barrier

Ailing Djokovic Digs Deep to Reach Astana Quarters

World number seven Novak Djokovic battled through an abdominal injury to reach the Astana Open quarter-finals on Thursday. The 21-time Grand Slam champion was in obvious discomfort throughout his 6-3, 6-4 win over Cristian Garin, but he showed incredible resilience to overcome the Chilean. Djokovic received medical treatment on his abdomen after the first set and was clearly struggling to serve and move freely. But he refused to give up, digging deep to find a way to win.

Djokovic's Injury Concerns

Djokovic has been struggling with an abdominal injury for several weeks, and it is clearly still causing him problems. He retired from his Wimbledon semi-final against Cameron Norrie due to the injury, and he has been struggling for form since then. Djokovic admitted after the match that he is not 100% fit, but he is determined to play through the pain and try to win the Astana Open.

"I'm not feeling great physically, but I'm a fighter and I'm going to try to do my best," Djokovic said. "I'm taking it one day at a time and I'm hoping that I can recover well and be ready for the next match."

Djokovic's Next Match

Djokovic will face Karen Khachanov in the quarter-finals of the Astana Open on Friday. Khachanov is a dangerous opponent, and he will be looking to take advantage of Djokovic's injury. But Djokovic has a wealth of experience and he will be determined to reach the semi-finals.

The match will be a tough test for Djokovic, but he has shown in the past that he is capable of overcoming adversity. If he can play through the pain and find his best form, he will be a difficult opponent for anyone to beat.