ATP
Opelka marks injury comeback with demolition of Djokovic
Reilly Opelka concluded with a 16th ace on Friday as the American who missed two years of play through injury knocked Novak Djokovic out of the Brisbane International 7-6 (6), 6-3.
Opelka, who underwent a hip operation and a pair of wrist surgeries, denied Djokovic the chance to continue the quest for a 100th career singles title with the quarter-final defeat.
The pair chatted at the net for more than the customary few seconds, with heavily bearded mountain man Opelka non-plussed after earning the biggest win of his career.
“During my time off I saw Novak become the greatest player, But I’ve stayed the course even when I was in a cast and on crutches.
“I just hoped to have another chance.”
The No. 293 called the week in Brisbane “a step step along the way, the beginning of a new start for me
“But I have a long way to get my ranking back,” added the former top 20 player.
Main photo:- Reilly Opelka returns from injury to beat Novak Djokovic by Pete Staples ATPTour.com